Page 14 of Bossalicious Bad Boy

"Time to face the music," I say with a sigh, steeling myself for the difficult conversations and apologies that lie ahead. And as I step forward, my determination to make amends fuels me with every stride.

My heart is a stampede of wild horses as I stand alone in the dimly lit office, feeling the cold chill of rejection pierce my chest. The lingering scent of Clara's perfume taunts me, a cruel reminder of the intimate moment we just shared, and the line I crossed. My breath comes out in ragged gasps, and I can't help but feel a mixture of frustration and despair.

"Damn it," I mutter under my breath, running my fingers through my hair with agitation. I can't shake off the sensation of her lips against mine, the way she responded before reality came crashing down. I know I messed up; I let my desire for her overpower reason and professionalism.

"Get a grip, Alex," I tell myself, trying to regain control. I need to think this through, understand the consequences of what I've done, and figure out how to mend our relationship – both professional and personal.

As I pace back and forth across the room, my thoughts race at the speed of light. How could I have been so stupid? So reckless? Clara is my employee, for God's sake, and I've jeopardized everything we've built together.

7

CLARA

The elevator doors slide open and my heart leaps into my throat when I see Alex standing there. He's leaning against the back wall, arms crossed over his chest, looking every bit the billionaire CEO he is.

"Clara," he greets me with a slight nod, his deep voice resonating through the confined space. "Heading up?"

"Y-yes, sir," I stammer, stepping inside and pressing the button for my floor. My fingers tremble as I press the button, and I can feel the heat rising to my cheeks. The air between us feels charged, like a storm waiting to break.

He smiles but says nothing.

I try to calm my pounding heart, the sound throbbing in my ears. I can't deny that I'm attracted to him, but pursuing a romantic relationship with my boss seems like a disaster waiting to happen. As much as I want to be close to him, I don't want to jeopardize my internship, my career, or my future.

"Is everything okay?" he asks, genuine concern in his eyes.

"Um, yeah," I reply, swallowing hard. "Just a lot on my mind, I guess."

"Work-related, or something else?" He arches an eyebrow, and I can tell he's fishing for information, trying to understand the distance I've been putting between us lately.

"Both?" I admit, unable to keep the truth entirely hidden. It's not just our positions at the company that give me pause; it's the connection we've developed, the easy banter we once shared despite barely knowing each other, the way his touch sends shivers down my spine. But I can't let myself forget that he's my boss, and I'm just an intern trying to make a name for myself.

"Clara," he says, his voice softening. "I know things can get complicated with workplace relationships, and I don't want you to feel pressured in any way."

"Thank you, Alex," I whisper, grateful that he's not pushing the issue further. But as I glance at him, my gaze locked on those piercing blue eyes, I can't help but wonder what it would be like to explore this connection between us, to see where it might lead.

The elevator dings, signaling our arrival at my floor, and I step out into the bustling office space. As the doors slide shut behind me, I can't shake the feeling that I'm leaving something important behind, something that could change my life if I dared to take the chance.

"Wait," I hear Alex call out just before the doors seal us apart, but it's too late. The elevator continues its ascent, leaving me standing in the hallway, my heart heavy with uncertainty and longing.

As I make my way to my desk, my heart pounds in my chest. I can't help but overhear the whispers and snickers of my coworkers as I pass by. I know they've noticed how close Alexander and I have become, and I fear the rumors are already starting.

"Clara," I hear Ruby call out from nearby. "Is everything okay?"

I take a deep breath and give her a weak smile. "Yeah, just the usual Monday blues." I try to brush it off as if it's nothing. But deep down, my concerns continue to fester.

"Come on," she urges, "you know you can talk to me about anything."

"It's just… Have you ever... felt something for someone you really shouldn't?" I ask hesitantly. My mind is racing with thoughts of Alex, the lingering warmth of his touch, and the undeniable pull between us.

"Ah, I see," she replies, her voice low. "Don’t tell me that it’s Alex."

My cheeks flush red, and I nod. "Exactly. I don't want to jeopardize my career or reputation by getting involved with him. I worked so hard to get here, and I can't afford to lose this opportunity."

"Clara, you're an amazing employee and a talented professional," Jess reassures me. "But I understand your concerns. It's a tough situation to be in."

"What do I do? I'm drawn to him, but at the same time, I'm terrified of the consequences," I confess, my voice barely audible.

"Listen," she says, leaning in closer, "I can't tell you what to do. Only you can decide if it's worth the risk. But remember, sometimes the most incredible things happen when we take chances."

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