Page 24 of Bossalicious Bad Boy

"Great job on the report, Clara!" my supervisor compliments one afternoon, snapping me back to reality. "Keep up the good work."

"Thank you," I reply with a smile, pushing the thoughts of Alexander aside once more. In these moments, I know I've made the right choice, but the battle between my heart and mind wages on.

* * *

Distancing myself from Alexander is necessary if I'm going to succeed in this internship and maintain my independence. But that doesn’t mean it’s easy.

"Morning, Clara," Alexander says, entering the office with his usual confident stride. His piercing blue eyes meet mine, causing a flutter in my chest.

"Good morning," I reply, forcing a neutral tone as I turn my attention back to the stack of papers on my desk.

"Working on something interesting?" he asks, leaning against the edge of my desk, his presence impossible to ignore.

"Uh, just some research for an upcoming project," I say, doing my best to keep our interaction brief and professional.

"Sounds exciting," he says, a hint of amusement in his voice. "Well, if you need any help, don't hesitate to ask."

"Thanks, I'll keep that in mind," I reply, avoiding his gaze. Alexander lingers for a moment, but eventually walks away, leaving me to my work.

Over the next few days, I do my best to limit our interactions, focusing on my tasks and surrounding myself with coworkers whenever possible. It's not easy, as his magnetic presence seems to draw me in like a moth to a flame. But I know it's for the best.

"Hey, Clara," Ruby whispers as we huddle over a spreadsheet. "I've noticed you've been keeping your distance from Alexander. How's that working out for you?"

"Surprisingly well," I admit, my fingers flying over the keyboard as I input data. "It's tough, but it's helped me focus on my work."

"Good for you," she says, giving me an encouraging smile.

However, the more I avoid Alexander, the more I notice his puzzled glances and furrowed brow when our paths do cross. During a team meeting, he catches my eye and leans in to whisper, "Is everything alright, Clara? You've been... distant lately."

"Everything's fine," I reassure him, trying to keep my voice steady and composed. "Just focusing on the internship."

"Alright, just making sure," he says, concern evident in his voice. His eyes search mine for any hint of deception, but I maintain my facade.

As the week wears on, I can't help but feel a gnawing guilt over my actions. Alexander has always treated me with kindness and respect, but I know that maintaining boundaries is crucial for both my professional and personal growth. Each day is a struggle between my desire for independence and the undeniable attraction I feel towards him.

* * *

As I walk into the office, the memory of Alexander's warm smile from yesterday lingers in my mind. It's surprising how such a small gesture can make me feel so much more at ease around him. I take my seat at my desk and go about my day, noticing the occasional glance from Alexander, but without the usual intensity that made me uncomfortable.

"Hey, Clara," Ruby calls out as she approaches. "How's it going with you-know-who?" Her eyes flicker towards Alexander's office.

"Actually, things have been... different," I admit, keeping my voice low. "He's been giving me some space, and it feels like he's respecting my boundaries more."

"Really?" Ruby raises her eyebrows. "That's unexpected. How do you feel about it?"

I hesitate for a moment before answering. "I think I appreciate it. But it's also making me question my decision to distance myself from him."

"Ah, the classic internal conflict," she teases, though her tone remains sympathetic. "Just remember, it's your life, and you get to decide what's best for you."

"Thanks, Ruby. I'll keep that in mind," I reply, feeling grateful for her support.

Later that afternoon, I find myself working late on a project, and Alexander steps out of his office.

"Clara, are you planning to stay much longer?" he asks, genuine concern in his voice.

"Um, just finishing up this report," I say, my fingers flying over the keyboard.

"Alright, don't work too hard now," he says with a gentle smile, a stark contrast to the forceful demeanor I had come to expect.

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