Page 16 of Bossalicious Bad Boy

I swallow hard, trying to keep my composure. It's unnerving to see Alexander, the CEO of the company I'm interning at, so vulnerable. My mind races through all the possible scenarios if we were to pursue something more.

"However," he continues, "I don't want you to feel that I would ever take advantage of my position or pressure you into anything. Your professional growth and success are important to me. I would never do anything to jeopardize that."

"Thank you, Alex," I breathe out, feeling a small wave of relief wash over me. His words bring some comfort, but I can't help the nagging voice in my head that wonders if this is too good to be true.

"I mean it," he says, sensing my lingering doubt. "If we were to explore this connection, I promise you that our relationship at work would remain strictly professional. No special treatment, no expectations. And if at any point you feel uncomfortable, we'll address it immediately."

"Thank you for understanding," I say, my voice barely above a whisper. The sincerity in his eyes chips away at the wall I've built around my heart. For the first time, I let myself consider the possibility of us being more than just colleagues.

"Clara," Alexander says softly, taking my hand in his. "I care about you, and I want us to figure this out together, at a pace that feels comfortable for both of us."

"Okay," I agree, my heart pounding in my chest. As we stand there, hands entwined, I feel the weight of our decision looming over us. But for now, I let myself believe that maybe, just maybe, we can navigate these uncharted waters together.

The office is almost empty as I return to my desk, my mind a whirlwind of thoughts and emotions. The image of Alexander's hopeful eyes burns behind my eyelids, making it difficult to concentrate on the paperwork in front of me. My heart races with a mix of fear and excitement, like a roller coaster barreling down its tracks.

"Hey," a voice says, pulling me out of my reverie. I glance up to see Alex leaning against the wall, his hands shoved into his suit pockets. It’s already dark outside, and I hadn’t even noticed. "Can I walk you out?"

"Sure," I reply, trying to keep my voice steady. We've crossed a line, and now every interaction feels loaded with possibility and unspoken desire.

As we make our way through the dimly lit halls, the silence between us grows heavy. I can feel the magnetic pull between us, but I don't dare reach out and touch him. What if someone sees? What if they start talking?

"Listen," he begins once we're alone, his voice soft and urgent. "I just wanted to check in with you. Are you...are you okay with our decision?"

My palms are damp, and I wipe them nervously on my dress. "I'm still scared," I admit, swallowing hard. "But I think we owe it to ourselves to explore this connection, even if it's risky."

"Thank you for being honest," he replies, his eyes searching mine. "I want you to know that whatever happens, I'll always respect and value your work here. You're an incredible asset to this company, and I'll never take that for granted."

"Thank you, Alexander," I say, feeling a lump form in my throat. His words mean more than he knows, and I find myself fighting back tears.

"Hey, don't cry," he says gently. "I promise we'll figure this out together."

As he reaches out to brush away a tear that has escaped down my cheek, our eyes lock and the world around us seems to fade away. The air between us crackles with electricity, and I can sense that we're teetering on the edge of something monumental.

"Alex," I say, my voice barely audible as his thumb grazes my lower lip.

"Clara," he breathes, his face inching closer to mine.

The elevator pings as it opens, and we jump apart, hearts pounding in our chests. My cheeks heat as I turn and walk into it, Alexander following after me. The air is tense between us as we ride down and I can only wonder what I’ve gotten myself into.

8

ALEXANDER

The early morning sunlight spills through the floor-to-ceiling windows of my penthouse, casting a golden glow onto the marble floors. I take a deep breath, inhaling the aroma of freshly brewed coffee wafting from the kitchen. Today feels like it's going to be a good day.

"Morning, Jorge," I call out as I make my way to the elevator, the familiar hum of the city below greeting me. My driver nods and flashes a grin before he opens the car door for me. "Thanks."

"Good morning, Mr. Blaese," he replies cheerfully. "You're in early today."

"Big day at the office," I explain, settling into the plush leather seat. As we glide through the bustling streets, I can't help but feel a sense of accomplishment and gratitude for everything that has brought me here. CEO of my own company, surrounded by people who believe in my vision - it's more than I ever dreamed possible.

As we pull up to the entrance of the towering skyscraper that houses my company, I take a moment to soak it all in. The hustle and bustle of my employees streaming through the doors, their faces a mix of determination, enthusiasm, and anticipation. I'm proud of what we've built here.

"Morning, Alex!" calls out Ruby, her face lighting up as she sees me approach. She's been with the company since the beginning and is a constant source of positivity and support.

"Morning, Ruby," I reply, returning her infectious smile and nodding at a few other colleagues who greet me as they pass by. The energy in the room is palpable, and I can't help but feel a renewed sense of motivation.

"Hey, Alex," greets Tim, one of my senior project managers, as I stride towards my office. His brow is furrowed, and I can see the gears turning behind his eyes. "Got a minute?"

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