《My Little Sunshine》


 Midnight

    In a lavish office situated on the 44th floor of a building sat a man in the president''s chair. Outside the office there was an eerie silence, not a single soul in sight as the office hours had been over long before. It was quiet inside, except for the tapping sound of typing coming from the laptop. He was going through all the emails that required his attention.


    The office had a touch of modern architecture but it was pretty much dull to the eyes with all the shades of grey paired with black and white. One could see the entire skyline of Berlin at his back through the French floor to ceiling glass windows. He raised his left hand to reach for the coffee mug while typing with his right. Blowing on the coffee, he took a few sips, the coffee running down his throat easing his tense mind. After a while, he was finally done replying to all the emails that needed his attention. He breathed out a long sigh while massaging the space between his brows with his right hand.


    He took a glance at the metal analog wall clock, realizing that it was already midnight, he decided to give his personal assistant a call to make sure that there was nothing which needed his attention urgently. Reaching for his phone, he stopped midway, smacking himself on his right temple for how he could forget that she had resigned a day before as she was getting married in a few days. He has asked her to stay back as she was good at doing her job only to be declined.


    "I want to spend the rest of my life with the love of my life. If I continue with the job, I won''t be able to give my family time properly. I am thankful to you for your guidance and help Sir. You helped me when I needed it the most. But I am sorry Sir!", she had replied to him when he had asked her to stay back.


    He heaved another sigh thinking about it. Turning his swiveling chair around, he looked at the skyline. He could only see a faint outline of some buildings as most of the lights were switched off. It was a cloudless night. One could see the stars clearly, shining in the distance. It was a full moon tonight. His gaze deepened looking at it, thinking how it stood out among the sea of stars all alone.A case of theft: this story is not rightfully on Amazon; if you spot it, report the violation.


    The moon reminded him of his own self. Both of them had no one to depend on, but still they had to come out of their hiding places each day. They had to face the world whether they like it or not. And both of them were alone, on their own in this big world.


    Glancing at the clock once again, he decided to head back to his house. He never called it a home for he thought that it was just a bunch of walls with all the requirements one would need to spend his daily life. He came out of the office and headed down to the parking lot using his personal elevator. Other than the security guards, there was no one else in sight. He walked to his own parking place, got in his Audi A8 and drove back to his place.


    He was greeted by his butler as he entered the place. He only nodded back to the old butler in response as he continued walking to his room on the first floor, only to be stopped by the butler.


    "Young Master, would you like to have something for dinner?"


    "No. I am not hungry.", he replied without stopping in his tracks.


    Once inside his room, he took off his coat, throwing it in the laundry basket, which was followed by his tie and shirt. He walked into his bathroom, getting rid of the remaining clothes, he stepped into the showering area which was made of frosted glass. Washing off the entire day¡¯s tiredness, he stepped out taking a white towel from the rack, wrapped it around his waist. He took another one, drying his hairs on his way out. He walked into his walk-in closet, took out a pair of shorts and a night robe, both in black. He glanced at his reflection in the mirror, only to find a man with slightly bronzed muscular body, a chiseled face with no stubble and deep gray eyes, and a head full of black, silky hairs which were still a bit wet staring back at him.


    After changing into his shorts and robe, he went to bed. Thinking about the things which he had to deal with the next day. The most important was going through the interviews of a number of potential candidates, one of them would be selected as his new secretary. His previous secretary has already dealt with the initial stages, eliminating the majority of the less qualified candidates.


    He was thankful to her for her hard work, even in the last days before leaving. Finally deciding to close his eyes, he drifted off to his dreamland.

 His Past

    He woke up early as usual and went to the gym which was located two doors next to the master bedroom. After spending an hour there, he took a shower, dressed up in an all black three pieces suit and headed downstairs for his breakfast.


    In the dining room, other than the maids serving him his breakfast, nobody else was there. He ate his breakfast quietly and left for the company, driving himself. He hated the idea of having a driver.


    After reaching the building having the logo of Levinson''s Corporation along with the name itself, encrusted in golden color on the top, he drove to the basement and parked his car in it''s usual spot. Taking the elevator specially reserved for the president of the company, he reached the top floor. As he walked out of the elevator doors everyone present there greeted him. He walked down to the office while nodding to them, a faint smile on his face.


    Adam Levinson took over his father''s company after his death, when he was just a 20 year old boy. His mother had passed away while giving birth to him. He was adored by his father, his every wish was fulfilled as soon as it escaped from his lips. He decided to study business so that he could help his father after receiving his degree. During the time he used to accompany his father to the office so that he could get used to the environment and familiarize himself with it.


    The business was booming but on his 20th birthday, he received the news of his father''s death. He was out of the city for an important meeting, but since it was his only son''s birthday, he wrapped up everything as soon as possible so that he could spend the rest of the day with his dear son. But on his way back home from the airport, he got into an accident. A big truck collided with his car, and he died at the moment. Adam came to know that the driver was involved in it as well. That is why he ignored the truck speeding towards the car. That was the day he decided not to ever hire a driver for himself. After taking over the business, Adam made the business flourish more while investing in different fields as it was the only remainder his father had left him.


    _ _ _ _ _ _ _


    Reaching his office, he called the receptionist on his floor using the intercom to send in his coffee which he preferred black and without any sugar. When the coffee was sent in, he asked the secretary of his Vice President to send in the candidates as he will carry out the interviews himself.


    The first candidate came in, she looked like a nerd with her big glasses covering half of her face. After two hours or so, he was frustrated. Not even a single one of the ten candidates were able to satisfy him even though they came from prestigious business colleges and were the top students of their classes. He looked at the list of candidates placed in front of him, all the names were crossed out by a red line except for one in the last. He asked the receptionist again to send in the last candidate using the intercom. He waited for her while massaging in between his brows. He didn''t have any hope for the last one as well. Stolen from Royal Road, this story should be reported if encountered on Amazon.


    Soon, there was a knock on the door followed by a sweet voice, "May I come in, Sir?"


    "Yes."


    The door opened, followed by the clicking sound of heels. He raised his head to see the person and was awestruck by what he saw.


    A girl with a petite figure was standing in front of him. She had the most flawless skin he had ever seen, just like that of a porcelain doll. She had a small face, the size of his palm. A pair of big hazel eyes were prominent on that petite face which stirred up something deep within him. She had dark brown waist length wavy hair which was tied up in a pony messily. She wasn''t dressed up formally like all the previous candidates and was wearing a black ripped jeans paired with a maroon crop-top with ''Bite Me'' written on it. Her slim waist was visible which was fair and smooth just like her face.


    He finally realized that it was too quiet, and looked once again at her captivating hazel brown eyes only to find them staring back at him with slightly raised eyebrows. Only then he realized that he was caught staring at her. He cleared his throat pointing to one of the chairs in front of his desk and said, "You can sit down."


    After she sat down, he asked her name, "May I know your name?"


    "Stella. Stella Martin, Sir!"


    "Tell me about yourself Ms. Stella." He asked her while going through her resume. He was impressed by her achievements so far. She came from a prestigious business college of Berlin. She was the top student in her class, though she doesn''t look like one of those nerds. She had worked before in two different companies for around two years and she was just 20 years old herself. He was impressed by her sincerely.


    "Excuse me, Sir?"


    His thoughts were interrupted by her. That was then he realized that he was lost in his own thoughts while she had probably answered his questions. "I am sorry, I am not feeling well today. But I am truly impressed by your achievements." He said after clearing his throat.


    "Thank you, Sir. I''m honored." She replied.


    "Miss Stella, if you don''t mind can I ask you some business related questions?" He asked her with a faint smile on his face to which she replied, "Sure."


    After asking her some questions for around 15 minutes or so, he was satisfied with all of her answers. He stood up, walked around the table, extended his arm while congratulating her, "Congratulations Miss Stella. You can join in from tomorrow. I know it''s on a short notice but I really need a P.A these days. I hope you don''t mind."


    She stood up and took his hand, giving it a firm handshake. "Thank you! And it''s no problem at all. You can just call me Stella, Sir."


    He realized now that even after wearing heels that were around 3 inches or more, she was still a head smaller than him only reaching up to his shoulders. He smiled politely and replied, "The pleasure is all ours Miss Stella. I mean Stella."


    They drew their hands back at the same time. Adam told her to ask about some details from Bella on her way out which will help her to settle in easily. Bella was one of the secretaries on the top floor outside his office and the only one who didn''t get on his nerves more than that was required.


    After hearing her yes in reply, he showed her the way outside and even held the office door as the door was a heavy wooden door, and also, so that she doesn''t stumble upon her heels.

 Spring Breeze

    After seeing her off, Adam came back to his desk, sitting on his swiveling chair, he faced the floor to ceiling glass windows. He gazed outside, a smile threatening to bloom over his face. He breathed out a long sigh, shaking his head sideways slowly, he turned back to face his desk so that he could go through the files which needed his signatures. His gaze fell on Stella''s resume once again, and he couldn''t help but smile thinking of how she carried herself during the interview, how confident she was while answering his questions.


    ''I am looking forward to tomorrow.'' He thought to himself and continued going through the files of different projects. Once he was done going through them, he buzzed Bella through the intercom asking her to bring his lunch to his office since it was already noon.


    Bella delivered his from one of his favorite restaurants soon, he carried it to the bedroom located within his office at the left of his desk. He used it sometimes when he had to stay back at the company to work, or he finished off late and didn''t want to drive. The room was fully furniture. Even the built-in wardrobe was full of clothes, both formal and casual wear. He removed his coat, hanging it properly on the coat hanger at the corner of the room. He freshened up quickly, returning back to the single sofa before which his lunch was placed on the small table.


    After a bunch of tiring hours going through all that statistical data and contracts'' details, he was famished, so he dug in hungrily.


    During the entire meal, his mind kept drifting off to the little girl. He couldn''t understand why, or what was happening to him. Though he hasn''t had a girlfriend before but he has met girls before who were around his age, not once but many times, every single one of them pretty and beautiful, having curves in the right places. Many of them had swooned over him but he had always remained passive and always had kept his distance from them. None of them could even manage to capture his eyes let alone his attention.


    But there was something different with that little elf which intrigued him, made him wanting to know more about her. There was something about her which intrigued him, attracted him towards her, specially those eyes, those hazel eyes which had their own light, their own glow. He liked the way they glittered in the pale light of his office. The way her lips curled upwards when she smiled thanking him, though it was a formal one, he still liked it.


    "Sigh...!!! What is happening to me?" He exclaimed out loud to himself, running his hands through his hairs in frustration. He decided to go back to his house early since he didn''t have anything left for the day to do, even if he had, it wasn''t like he could have anyways since his mind kept running back to a certain someone.If you spot this tale on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation.


    Arriving at his place, he decided to do some workout to take his mind off from certain things. (Author: Or a certain someone? Hehehe)


    He changed into his branded sportswear, which was in dark gray color. After heading to the gym, he busied himself in intense workout spending the next two hours within the same room. He was completely drenched in sweat when he was finally done with his rigorous workout. He headed back to his room. Once he was in the bathroom he got rid of his sweaty shirt, exposing his muscular upper body, on which any one could drool over.


    He had a long relaxing cold shower washing down all his frustration of the entire day. After the long shower, his mind was not hazy anymore, making him feel a bit better. He still had some time left for dinner since it was only evening then. He decided to look through his mail, responding to them while delegating some of the works to the Vice President and some managers of different departments. Soon it was time for dinner. After dinner he decided to take off for the day and went to his bed. As soon as he closed his eyes, a pair of hazel eyes popped up, he found himself being drawn to them. He opened his eyes with a jerk, taking deep breaths.


    "I am doomed." He thought out loud. After heaving out a long sigh, he decided to sleep, or at least try to.


    The next day Adam woke early as usual, followed his usual boring routine, and finally reached his office. He was a bit early today, so there were less people around. Entering his office, he sat back in his chair, switching on his laptop. As soon as the clock struck nine there was a slight knock on the door followed by the clicking sound of heels.


    "Good morning Sir. Miss Bella told me I could enter directly in your office after the knocking." In came an angelic voice, making him raise his head from his laptop. And as soon as he did, he scolded himself for doing so as he was once again awestruck completely by the sight before him.


    She was wearing a black fitted jeans, paired with an off-white chiffon blouse which was tucked in, a golden chain belt around her waist supporting the jeans, paired with black heeled boots. Her dark brown hairs were tied up in a messy bun, leaving a few short strands out which fell on her small face, framing it beautifully. Golden loops were dangling from her ears which were neither too big nor too small. Finally he noticed those deep hazel eyes, those eyes which made him lose all his rationality.


    "Umm... Sir?" She said interrupting his thoughts.


    "Ehm.... You were saying something?", he replied.


    "I said you don''t mind it, right? I was just following what Miss Bella told me to." She asked him again.


    "No. You don''t have to ask me every time you enter. Just knock on the door. If I have some problem or am busy doing something, I will just ask you to wait for a minute or so." He replied masking his awestruck expressions with perfection. " Do you get it Stella?" He continued.


    "Yes Sir!" she replied briefly.


    "Have a seat, please, and tell about the day''s schedule. Bella must have given it to you." He asked her politely with a faint smile.


    "Yes Sir. You have a meeting with an important client at around 10 a.m. They have proposed a collaboration. I have the file related to it. Miss Bella gave it to me yesterday and I went through it at home. I have marked the important points which require your attention Sir." She replied with professionalism while he listened to her with full interest which was something he had never done before, not even to his last P.A.


    Somehow, she reminded him of a spring breeze, fresh and soothing, calming down his nerves which were always tensed up.

 The Baffled CEO

    After listening to her, Adam asked her for the file which she had brought in.


    "Thank you Stella." He replied while picking up the file. "You can leave now and carry on with your work. Look through the file of our Golding Housing project. Look for potential partners for that project. Though we aren''t short on money, we still need the connections our investors bring in with themselves."


    "I will look into it Sir. And you have a meeting with Mr. Liam at lunch Sir." She replied politely.


    He chuckled in response, "I got it but can you please stop calling me Sir in every sentence?"


    "Okay Sir!" Her reply made him raise his eyebrows in response.


    She scratched her head with a slightly embarrassed expression on her face, "I mean, okay."


    "That''s good." To him her slightly embarrassed face looked a bit cuter than her straight working face specially when she scratched the back of her head.


    "You can leave now, Stella. And go through what I asked you to. I will call you if I need anything from you."


    "Okay, S..." She stopped midway realizing what she was about to say, making Adam''s lips twitch slightly.


    She stood up to go outside to her cabin which was situated right outside his office to the left, only to be stopped by him as soon as she reached the door.


    "Oh! Sorry for causing you trouble but can you please ask Bella to send in a cup of black coffee. And also you will be accompanying me in today''s meetings. Okay?"


    She looked like she wanted to say something but decided against it, replying with just an okay and made her way out.


    Adam''s gaze lingered on the door a bit longer even after she had gone out. Heaving out a big sigh, he didn''t know he was holding in. He shook his head sideways, pitying himself. If you spot this story on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation.


    ''This little elf is messing with my head.'' He thought to himself.


    Soon Bella brought in his coffee just like the way he preferred, black and sugar less . He decided to go through the file she had given him. He was slightly baffled by what she had done. Every single important point was highlighted by her. Not only that she had even made notes regarding. Every single mistake was marked by her, and she had even corrected them. Not just the calculations but profit, marketing, etc. It looked like he didn''t even have to wreck his brain while going through the file and just look once at what she had done.


    ''Just how much potential does the little elf have.'' He thought. At least he made the right decision to hire her as her assistant. He couldn''t help but pat himself on his shoulder inwardly.


    After going through the file he scanned the papers and faxed them to Bella, asking her to ask someone from the staff to make a revised version of it following the notes, and then send them to him along with Stella.


    While waiting for the papers, his mind drifted back to the little lady.


    ''What is happening to me?'' He questioned himself inwardly. '' Why does my mind keep drifting back to her? Ughhh! I never knew a girl could do this to me.'' His phone buzzed as he was lost in his own world contemplating what had happened to him, bringing him out of his reverie.


    He glanced at his phone. It was a message from his best friend. Actually, his only friend.


    "Are you free tonight?"- BC


    "I always am." - Adam


    "I meant work. You are always busy with work. In fact, it would have been good if it wasn''t work you are always busy with."- BC


    "Okay, okay. Stop rambling like a child. Just tell me the place." - Adam


    "The usual place. 9 p.m." - BC


    "Okay. See you there." - Adam


    Just as he was done exchanging texts with his best friend, there was a knock on the door. The door opened revealing the person who has occupied his mind since almost two days. Actually, it was even less than that.


    "Here are the revised papers." She said, handing him a blue file. "Bella told me that you asked for me."


    "Yes I did. You did a great job with the papers. You pointed out everything which needed to be and to be honest, there was nothing much I had to do other than going through them and forwarding them for revised ones."


    Stella beamed with happiness listening to his words. "Thank you." He didn''t know why but looking at her happy face made him smile as well.


    "Well, you deserve the praise, so there''s no need for thanking me." He said which only made her smile even more. A smile which wasn''t like his usual professional ones which she had given him earlier in the day and the day before after being accepted.


    To him she looked prettier while smiling like that. His lips couldn''t help but turn upwards on their own accord.


    "You can go now Stella and carry on with what you were doing before." He said to her politely.


    She nodded and left.


    Adam was strict towards his staff when it came to work. But at the same time he also knew when to praise them, especially when they had done an impeccably good job, the way she did. He wondered what other surprises this little lady had for him. He couldn''t help but for the day he would discover her true self completely.


    He knew that something wasn''t right with him. He knew that it was just her achievements and work he admired for he wasn''t lacking in having talented staff members. He had never felt anything like that before, not even for Megan, his previous secretary, who had been by his side for the last four years and was of the same age as him.


    ''Something is definitely wrong with me.'' He sighed, thinking to himself. ''I have to discuss this with Blake. Maybe he could give me some advice.''

 Meetings

    Before 10 a.m., Stella came in to inform him that the other party had arrived for the meeting, and were sitting in the meeting room, receiving a nod from him.


    Adam got up from his seat, took his laptop and the file from the table, heading towards the door. Stella followed his back, keeping a small distance between them. Once he was at the door, he paused in his steps, opening the door only to stand at the side, just like a pure gentleman that he was, so that Stella could step out first.


    Stella raised her head in confusion only to be met by a pair of deep gray eyes that were staring back at her.


    "Ladies first." She heard him say. Giving him a bright smile and whispering a thank you in reply she walked out. He followed her out quietly. On their way to the meeting room none of them said anything. Both were lost in their own thoughts.


    Adam had always been a gentleman. He was brought up that way by his father. His father taught him to respect everyone despite their status, especially women. Despite being born with a silver spoon in his mouth, he was never a spoilt kid. He was only a bit strict when it came to the business.


    Stella was lost in her own thoughts while walking next to Adam. She noticed that he had deliberately slowed down his pace so that she could walk next to him rather than following him like an assistant is supposed to, just like she used to for the last two years. She was a hard-working secretary in two different companies previously. The first company was a big name in the timber industry. But her superior was a lady. No matter how much hard work she did, she would still end up getting scolded for something she never did. Later on, she came to know it was just because she had a pretty face. Her female co-workers were jealous of her and ended up creating troubles for her. She has no choice but to resign after a year.


    The second company was a bigger one and was an investment firm. Her boss though treated her good and even appreciated her at times. What she didn''t know was that he had his own motives for doing so. When she realized it, it was already a bit late but she managed to leave that place for her own good.


    Because of her past experiences, she had her doubts towards Adam. Maybe he was just like his previous boss. Treating her good because he took a liking towards her. In fact he might have accepted her just because of the very sole reason and had underlying motives as well. But she felt something was different about him, but what, she couldn''t put her finger on it no matter how hard she tried.


    As they reached the meeting room, Adam once again opened the door letting her in first, and she stepped in quietly with her head lowered, her eyes boring into the marbled floor. Stolen content warning: this tale belongs on Royal Road. Report any occurrences elsewhere.


    Adam started talking to the team while sitting in his usual spot which belonged to the President of the company. Stella sat on his right, opening her laptop to note down the minutes of the meeting.


    "Good morning, gentlemen. I hope you guys are doing well."


    After receiving everybody''s greetings, he continued.


    "I went through the draft sent by your company. I must say that was good but there were some conditions which didn''t set well with me so I changed them. Specially the one related to the partition of profit. I can not agree with it at any cost. Though you guys are investing a lot of money but not more than Levinson''s Corp. Moreover, most of the resources are also provided by us. So, instead of a 60/40 split, I want it to be a 65/35 split. Of course the 65% is for Levinson''s Corp." He said, making his staff laugh under his breath.


    Ignoring them, he continued, "This is a revised version of the draft, go through it, if you guys have any sort of questions, please feel free to ask my people here. They will clear up your problems. The contract is already ready, if all is done then you can sign the contract at the moment as well Mr. Anthony. I have another meeting so I will be leaving. Thank you for your precious time. I hope you make a good decision for your company."


    He stood up and made his way to the door , only to realize a little human being was missing from his side. He stopped in his tracks, "Stella?" he said, clearing his throat.


    Stella came out of her dreamland, stood up and made her way out following him. She was a bit confused about what had just happened. Lost in her own world, she didn''t notice that a certain someone had stopped before him.


    Thud!! Her face crashed against a muscular back, her nose became slightly red, and her eyes misty.


    Adam turned around and scolded her politely, "If you have something bothering your mind, just ask me Stella. No matter what it is I will answer it." He raised his voice the slightest bit  and continued, " And at least watch where are you going. What if it was a door rather than a living person?"


    "Well! Your back is no less than a door Sir." She replied, still rubbing her nose. Her snarky reply made him laugh that echoed within the quiet hallway.


    He wanted to make a sarcastic remark but decided not to when he saw her misty eyes.


    "You alright Stella? Should I call a doctor for you? Uhhh! Of course I should. Why am I even asking such a silly question?"


    Before he could even unlock his phone, he was interrupted by Stella.


    "There is no need for that Sir. It''s just my nose is stinging a bit, that''s why my eyes are tearing up. It will be fine in a while on its own."


    "Are you sure?" Adam asked with concern.


    "Yes Sir! I am sure."


    "Okay. You should go and take some rest and there''s no need for you to accompany me to the lunch meeting."


    "But it''s a meeting..." She tried to speak up but was interrupted midway.


    "It''s just a casual lunch meeting to discuss one of the previous projects. It''s not that much of a big deal. I can handle it on my own. Now off you go. Go take some rest. You can  carry later on with your work."


    "As you say, Sir."


    Just as she was about to leave Adam gave her his handkerchief to wipe off her tears which had almost escaped her eyes. Seeing her hesitate, he spoke up, "Just take it, or else my staff is going to think that I bullied a newbie."


    She took it with hesitation. No matter what, he was her boss and she wouldn''t feel comfortable if he was going to be misunderstood because of her. "Thank you."


    "You''re welcome. Now, off you go."


    Adam watched her leaving as he made his way back to his office.

 The Golden Corals (1)

    Adam spent the rest of his time in his office going through the remaining work. At noon he went down and drove himself to one of the most lavish restaurants of Berlin.


    He walked in, and just as he thought, Uncle Liam was already waiting for him. Adam could only shake his head, ''What is with this man and arriving earlier than the decided time?''


    Adam was led by the manager himself to a private room located on the second floor, and was reserved for them.


    As the dark wood doors were opened by a waiter, Adam could see a man in his late fifties, dressed impeccably in a dark navy blue coat and dress pants paired with a white button-down shirt. He still had an imposing aura surrounding him despite his old age.


    ''Dad would have been just like him if he was alive today.'' He thought to himself, a sad smile  embracing his lips.


    "Uncle Liam. Good afternoon. I hope you are doing well." Adam greeted the old man politely.


    "Hey kiddo! Since when did you become this formal with me, huh?" He scoffed.


    "Since you started treating me just like your business partners. You dare call my secretary to actually make an appointment for a ''lunch meeting'' with me." Adam scoffed as well mimicking his tone.


    "I know you are busy these days with the business, so I didn''t want to disturb you."


    Adam grimaced in response, "Yeah, yeah! Whatever. And here I thought you misplaced my personal number."


    "Come on Adam! Stop acting like a spoilt kid." Liam reprimanded him. "Now have a seat and order for your food. I have already ordered mine."Reading on Amazon or a pirate site? This novel is from Royal Road. Support the author by reading it there.


    "Wow! So much for courtesy. I am feeling quite honored." Adam rolled his eyes upwards with a dramatic expression while sitting down  in front of him.


    He ordered his food, a waiter listening to him with patience , jotting it down as well. Soon their orders arrived. Both of them chatted happily while having their meals along, discussing business and their personal lives as well.


    Liam, or Liam Nelson, was his father''s childhood friend. Adam had grown up before his eyes. After his father, he was sort of a fatherly figure Adam had looked up to. Always asking for his advice whenever he needed one.


    Other than his childhood best friend, Adam only had Liam, whom he could call a family.


    Just like his father, Liam Nelson was also a well known name in the business industry that mostly dealt in marketing and shopping malls.


    After the meal both of them parted their ways.


    Adam decided to go back to his place earlier today since he had nothing else to do for today. He left Bella a text to inform her. Once in the car he thought of informing Stella so that she could go back earlier as well but realized that he didn''t have her contact information. Asking Bella to inform her about it, he drove his car back to his place.


    ''The only perk I have being a President of a big corporation is that I can take off whenever I feel like it.'' He thought to himself while driving up the driveway. He stopped his car next to the huge white fountain located in front of the main doors right in the middle of the huge garden covering the vast land. Tossing the keys to one of the guards, he reminded him not to scratch his beauty.


    Making his way up to his bedroom, he freshened up quickly, and decided to go to his study. Reaching there he took out a book related to business from one of the dark wood bookshelves. Sitting on his arm chair, next to the floor to ceiling, he opened the book.


    Around four hours later a certain someone woke up with a jerk. Taking-in his surroundings, Adam realized that he was in his study. ''I must have slept while reading that boring book.''


    Belonging to the business world and having a good grasp of it was one thing but having your own personal interest in it was definitely another thing. For Adam, he stepped into the business world so that he could help his father.


    Glancing at the wall clock he realized he had two hours left. Hurrying his way out back to the master bedroom, he stepped into his Italian styled bathroom. After taking a shower, he made his way to his walk-in closet with only a big white towel wrapped around his lower half which hung low on his waist revealing his abdominal muscles, the water droplets glistening under the white lights.


    He changed into a navy blue, full-sleeved t-shirt with a v-shaped neckline and paired it with light gray fitted jeans.


    After wearing a pair of white Adidas sneakers, he opened the drawer of his left bedside table, taking out the key of his most favorite car. He headed downstairs and informed the butler that he won''t be eating at home tonight and will be coming late.


    "You can go to bed early Uncle Rob. And please don''t wait up for me like the last time." Saying goodnight to the old butler he made his way out to the parking garage. Driving out his darling, he drove down the driveway speeding all the way to ''The Golden Corals''.

 Golden Coral (2)

    A black Maserati stopped before a high end club. A handsome man stepped out, handing the keys over to the valet.


    People had to identify themselves before entering in. Other than being rich, one had to have an affluent background to have access to the club. Every single person must have their own membership cards to enter. people could invite as many of their friends as they want but they would be held responsible for any sort of damage done to the property by one of their guests.


    Apart from such restrictions, the place had its own benefits. It seemed like another world within itself. There were three different levels in total. The ground floor held a general bar area where people could enjoy themselves drinking till they lose count or their consciousness .


    The first floor was a high end bar area where every expensive alcohol known could be found along with private rooms which people could book after spending a good amount of money. The second floor had a few VIP private rooms that could only be used by the owner or his family members and close friends.


    Adam walked in without paying any heed to the people who were now staring at him. He walked straight to the private elevator which opened directly at the second floor.


    He entered one of the VIP private rooms which was only used by the owner of the club.  Apart from him only Adam was allowed to use the room even in his absence.


    As soon as Adam walked in, someone jumped on him making him fall down on the ground with a loud thud.


    "Have you lost it, man?" Adam groaned in pain.


    "I am the one who has lost it? No dude! it''s obviously you who has. This is what your friendship is like. This is how you treat your childhood friend who also happens to be your best friend, huh?" Blake shouted back at him.


    "Okay! I am sorry! Now stop acting like a girl whose boyfriend was caught cheating and let me get up at least." Adam scoffed.


    Blake helped him up. Adam dusted himself, giving him a glare and punched him right in his stomach.


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    "Ugggghh! This is how you thank your best friend for making you forget your dull life for a night?"


    "Whatever!" Adam replied while sitting down on a dark maroon sofa, making himself comfortable.


    "Let''s order our drinks then we can talk easily without anyone''s interference." Blake said.


    "Hmm." He only hummed in response.


    After ordering for their favorite wines, they waited for their arrival.


    "There''s something I have to discuss with you but not now. After our drinks I will tell you about it." Adam spoke out of nowhere.


    "Sure." Blake shrugged in response.


    Blake Collins and Adam were childhood friends. They had known each other since kindergarten. Growing up together all these years, both of them knew the other like the back of their own hands. Blake was perhaps the only person before whom Adam would always act casually, not like the President of a big corporation.


    Soon their drinks were served, and Blake asked the servers to leave the room.


    Adam picked up his glass, brought it to his eye level, swirling the dark red liquid in it around, finally taking a sip. He heaved out a contented sigh. He leaned back against the sofa, enjoying his drink quietly. None of them spoke up, enjoying their drinks in silence. Blake knew that if Adam wanted to tell something, he eventually would once he was in the mood. So, he gave him his time and peeked a glance at his best friend sitting across him.


    A tall, lean man sitting lazily on a big sofa which could easily fit four people, like a King sitting on his throne. His right hand held the glass, his long slender fingers wrapped around the stem of the wine glass from which he would occasionally take a sip while the other hand was resting at the back of the sofa. His black silky hairs were disheveled, falling down on his forehead. Those deep gray eyes looking outside through the windows. One look at him could make any girl crazy over him.


    ''How can he look so good even in such casual clothes?'' Blake rolled his eyes thinking to himself.


    "Stop staring at me or you will fall in love with a guy." Adam spoke up suddenly, turning his head back to the idiot sitting in front of him.


    "Stop being so full of yourself." Blake retorted back. " What was that you want to talk to me about?" He continued.


    "Well, ummm.... I have a new assistant." Adam replied.


    "So, what about it?"


    "She''s a girl." Adam replied.


    Blake gave him a questioning look as if asking him to continue.


    "Well, she''s pretty good at her job. Though it''s been just a day, she has a good grasp of business. In addition to that she''s also hard-working. She''s a bit small though. I...." Adam spoke but was interrupted by Blake.


    "You like her."


    "What? No. There''s no way I can like her. Moreover, I just met her yesterday for the first time." Adam scoffed, taking a big gulp from his glass.


    "You definitely do man. I have known you since we are kids. You have never praised anyone before. Not anyone from your staff, even that previous assistant of yours and she worked by your side for four years. And just for the record she was pretty as well. I would have made a move on her long before if it wasn''t for you stopping me. So, you definitely have some feelings for her. Now, start spilling the beans." Blake gave him a sly smile.


    Adam filled his glass up to the brim and emptied it in two big sips, falling deep into his thoughts looking outside again.


    Blake saw that and chose to stay quiet, letting the other man clear out his thoughts a bit. Knowing him for so long, Blake already had an inkling of what his reply would be, but still waited patiently for him to speak up.

 Give It A Try

    After a few minutes, Adam finally broke his silence. "I don''t know whether I like her or not. But there is definitely something different about her. Something which attracts me towards her, making me curious to know more about her. I want to know about her personal life, her choices, what she likes and what she doesn''t. I don''t know what is happening to me. I have never felt about someone like this. And it''s not just because she''s beautiful, although she is really beautiful. But it''s like, there''s more to her, and I want to know it all."


    "It looks like you are interested in her. This was bound to happen one day, sooner or later. Look at you, you are 24 years old but haven''t been in a relationship. Not even one. There were girls in the past who were interested in you, but you never even bothered to lay a single glance at any of them. Even now you keep a good distance from all those socialites who keep trying to get close to you during banquets." Blake replied, leisurely sipping his wine.


    "All those plastic beauties want is this face and the wealth that accompanies it." Adam scoffed.


    "But it looks like there is finally someone who managed to get your attention just in one day." Blake replied.


    "It''s actually at the first meeting, not in one day." Adam replied with a lopsided smile.


    "Hahahahaha! Hold your horses man. What about her? Is she interested in you?" Blake asked, laughing.


    "Do you think we would be having this discussion if that was the case?" Adam rolled his eyes in response. "She isn''t like those girls who jump at the sight of a handsome man, right to him . Moreover, I have felt that she has her guards up against me." He continued.


    "What did you do to the poor girl?" Blake asked only to receive a deadly glare in response, making him raise his hands up in the air. "I am just kidding dude, Calm down. Maybe it''s related to her past. You have the resources to look into it. Just do it then."


    "No. That''s her private matters and I don''t want to do such a thing. If she wants to tell me about it anytime in the future, I am all ears. But I won''t look into it on my own accord." Adam replied in a serious tone.


    "Okay, but what will you do then?" Blake asked, testing the waters.A case of content theft: this narrative is not rightfully on Amazon; if you spot it, report the violation.


    "I don''t know man." Adam heaved out a frustrated sigh, running his hands through his hairs. He poured himself another glass and gulped it down quickly.


    "Take it easy, I have never seen you drinking like this before. You are going to get drunk like this and it''s not the weekend tomorrow. You still have to go to the office tomorrow." Blake said, stopping him before he poured himself another glass. "You have already had more than two glasses."


    "I know that you idiot. I just don''t know what to do. She keeps popping up in my thoughts out of nowhere. I have tried busying myself, but it didn''t help out. It doesn''t matter how much work I drown myself in, it still happens. And it''s just been two days. Just two days and I am going crazy over here. You know how I feel when things go out of my control." Adam replied with frustration.


    "Why don''t you give it a try?" Blake advised him.


    "Give what a try?" Adam asked in confusion.


    "Look man, it''s pretty obvious that you have taken a liking to her for whatever reason. So why not give it a try, huh?" Blake smiled.


    "EXPLAIN!" Adam shouted in response.


    "Where does your intelligence go in these situations? What I mean is that you can try knowing her. Try to get close to her a bit and see where it goes. If something is meant to happen it will. Let things go with their own flow. But you have to at least give it a try." Blake explained to him with patience.


    He knew that no matter how much brain his best friend had, it came down to nothing in these situations. Even during their high school, it was him pointing him about all those girls after him, bringing him gifts and stuff. He had a thick skull when it comes to things like pursuing or being pursued and had a hard time understanding things.


    He finally saw Adam nodding his head while thinking about something, "You have a point. I will do as you said."


    "I always do." Blake said with a smug smile on his face.


    "Shut up!" Adam scoffed.


    Blake rolled his eyes backwards in response and chose not to reply to him.


    Since it was already late at night, they ordered a bunch of dishes to eat and soon the dishes  arrived. Both of them ate in silence. Blake knew Adam was still a bit lost about what he should do or how, but he didn''t disturb him, giving him all the time he needed. ''This guy has to do something for himself at least once in his life and that too his way.'' Blake thought, looking at Adam who was quietly eating his meal while his mind was clearly somewhere else.


    When they were done with their dinner, Adam decided to take his leave since it was already midnight and he had to go to the office the next day. He stood up to leave.


    "Thanks for today, I owe you one." Adam said, giving his friend a big smile.


    "It''s actually not that of a big deal. I enjoyed tonight as well. It''s not like I get to see the great Adam Levinson so messed up and frustrated everyday." Blake chuckled.


    ''This idiot is getting on my nerves today.'' Adam thought. "Here I was thinking to give you a big reward in return for your help today, but now, I don''t feel like giving you anything in return." Adam replied with a sly grin.


    Blake scratched his head and replied meekly, "I was just kidding man. You know me so well. Don''t you? I always like joking with you. So, you can just ignore whatever nonsense I just spoke."


    Adam ignored him and headed to the door, "I will see you later. Good night!" He walked away ignoring his sulking friend.


    He drove back to his place,freshened up and laid down on the king sized bed. He closed his eyes and drifted off to his dreamland.

 Complex Feelings

    Adam woke up the next day with a mild headache. ''I shouldn''t have drunk that much last night.'' He groaned, holding his head with his hands.


    He glanced at the wall clock, cursing himself, he dragged his body to the bathroom. ''I am going to be late for the first time in four years. Just great.''


    Taking a quick shower, he dressed up and headed downstairs, almost running.


    "Sorry Uncle Rob but I won''t be able to have breakfast at the moment." He spoke politely to the old butler while putting on his cufflinks.


    Just as the butler opened his mouth to reply, Adam interrupted him once again, "Don''t worry, I will definitely eat something at the office."


    He scurried off bidding his goodbye to the old butler. Adam reached the company in twenty minutes speeding all the way. Usually it took him around 40 minutes since his place was located in the outskirts of the city, away from the hassle of city life.


    ''Ding.'' At the top floor of Levinson''s Corp. the elevator doors of the President''s private elevator opened. Adam came out and headed to his office under the weird gazes of his employees which accompanied their greetings. He ignored them and entered his office.


    He couldn''t help but think about it. Shrugging it off, he buzzed Stella through the intercom.


    Two minutes later Stella came in along with a bunch of files for him. He asked her to sit, not daring to look at her for longer than required.


    Going through the files, he could feel a pair of eyes belonging to a certain someone, staring intently at him.


    "What is it Stella?" He asked politely.


    "Nothing Sir."


    He raised his head after listening to her reply, looking at her with his eyebrows raised, "What did I tell you yesterday?"Love what you''re reading? Discover and support the author on the platform they originally published on.


    "That I can ask you anything?" She replied which sounded more like a question itself rather than the answer to his question.


    "Yes, and you can say whatever you like to me if you want rather than trying to hold it in and staring at me without blinking." Adam replied to see her pursing her lips on being caught. "Now, are you going to tell me?"


    "It''s actually nothing Sir." She replied with her head lowered slightly.


    "What is wrong with my entire staff today?" Adam heaved out a sigh.


    "Maybe it''s not them, It''s you." Stella replied which was more like a whisper.


    "Uhh...what?" Adam was a bit confused.


    "You said that I can speak out my thoughts?." She asked him carefully and only continued when he gave her a firm nod in reply. "Actually, there''s nothing wrong with them. You forgot to wear your tie today, and looking at the people outside it''s probably your first time doing that Sir. To top it off you are also half an hour late today and your hairs are still a bit damp and slightly disheveled, looking as if you must have used your hands today instead of a hairbrush."


    Adam was slightly dazed looking at those hazel eyes which twinkle the tiniest bit whenever she moved her head while talking. This was probably the first time she had spoken this much before him in one go except for her interview. He was brought back to the present when she blinked at him in confusion.


    "So, that''s the reason everyone was staring at me as if I had grown a pair of horns on my head." Adam replied with a low chuckle which was deep and soothing.


    His response made Stella laugh a bit as well, "You won''t actually look that bad with a pair of horns on your head."


    Adam stiffened in his seat as if he was struck by lightning. It was the first time he had found a girl''s laugh pleasant to his ears.


    Adam looked at her with complex feelings in his eyes. ''Do I really like her? But I don''t even know anything about her other than her name and academics. How can I like someone just like that?''


    "Sir?" Stella brought him out of his dreamland. "Are you okay? You don''t look well."


    "Yeah! I am just having a mild headache. Can you ask someone to send in some painkillers along with a light breakfast." Adam asked her politely with a faint smile just like his usual self.


    "Sure Sir." She replied and hurried out.


    Adam''s gaze stayed on the closed door as he was brought back to an old memory.


    ---------------------


    *FLASHBACK*


    A thirteen year old young Adam stood before a grave with his father next to him. It was his mother''s death anniversary.


    "Dad! You always say that you loved Mom more than anything else in the world." He asked the man next to him.


    "I still love your Mother even though she''s not with me." His Dad replied slowly.


    "How did you know that you love her and that you want to spend the rest of your life with her?" Adam asked while looking at the grave stone.


    "You just know it." His Dad replied with a faint smile on his lips.


    "But how?" Adam was not satisfied with his answer.


    "There''s never a how or why Adam. You don''t understand it now, but you will one day, when someone will enter in your life with whom you are meant to spend your life." His Dad gave him a big smile, ruffling his hairs to which the boy grimaced.


    *FLASHBACK ENDS*


    ------------------------


    Adam heaved out a long sigh, running his hands through his hairs.

 The Two Of Us

    Stella came back after 10 minutes with a man in tow. "Sir, your breakfast and painkillers."


    "Place them in the bedroom." Adam replied.


    "Okay Sir." Stella led the man to the room and placed the things on the table before the sofas.


    She returned back outside, "It''s done, Sir. You should eat something first before taking the painkillers. It''s not good to take them on an empty stomach." She spoke politely. She could sense that something was not right with him. He seemed a bit lost and tired.


    Adam nodded in response, "Thank you Stella. You can leave now and carry on with your work."


    Stella nodded, turning around to leave but was stopped by Adam."And about the files, I will read them in a bit and sign them. I will call you to pick them up after I get done with them."


    "There''s no need for that. There isn''t anyone that requires your urgent attention. You should take some rest after breakfast." She replied with a smile. "Health comes first, Sir. If you suddenly fall I''ll who''s going to look after the entire corporation." She added.


    Adam asked her in reply with a big smile on his face, " Are you getting worried about my health now?"


    "N-No. I-I mean of course since you are my boss. Your well being ensures the well being of the company." She replied stammering.


    "You are right." Adam replied, sighing internally. ''She only takes me as her boss.''


    "What about the Golding Housing Project?" He continued.


    "I have found a number of potential companies we can collaborate with. There are some companies that are contacting us as they want to collaborate with us. But I still need some time to get done with it." She replied.


    "Okay. There''s no need for you to worry about time. You still have till the end of next week. By then, I want the complete report on my desk."


    "Okay Sir." She replied.


    "You can go now. And thank you once again." He smiled at her.Ensure your favorite authors get the support they deserve. Read this novel on the original website.


    "You don''t have to thank me, it''s my job." She said in response. " And I will make sure no one disturbs your rest." She continued.


    Adam only nodded in response. Stella made her way out leaving Adam alone to deal with his thoughts.


    Adam stood up making way to the room. He sat down on the sofa and started eating the French toast that was brought in a while earlier along with a cup of English tea by the little lady who has been messing with his head these days.


    He started eating while his mind was still stuck somewhere else.


    ''What can I do to make her think of me as not just her boss but someone who means something more to her. I have to do something, anything. I can not just sit idle now, especially not when I know that I like her.'' Adam ate quietly, having a monologue with himself.


    ''I am going to win her over anyhow. But first, I have to know more about her. But the important question is ''how''? She doesn''t even speak to me more than what is required.''


    "Well, you could have her investigated." A tiny Adam dressed up in red with two horns on his head popped up on his left shoulder.


    "Don''t listen to him! You should try on your own." Another little Adam popped up on his right shoulder but he was dressed in white with a halo ring above his head.


    "You should listen to me. Otherwise, how are you going to know about her?" The devil Adam spoke up in his defense.


    "No! What if she doesn''t like it? You will be invading her personal space without her knowledge." Angel Adam spoke up again.


    They continued their argument until Adam shrugged them off his shoulders. "I have completely lost it. I have gone mad. I have started hallucinating things now." He thought out loud to himself. "I should have some rest, I need it badly."


    He finished his breakfast, took two painkillers and went to bed.


    When he woke up, it was already late and office hours were over. He was utterly shocked knowing that he had slept straight for 8 hours. He didn''t use to sleep for this long even at night.


    ''But it feels so great. Looks like I really needed it. I feel refreshed now.'' He smiled while thinking.


    "Shit!!! The files." Realization dawned on Adam that he had some work to do. ''But Stella did say that they aren''t anything urgent.'' He shrugged it off. ''I will just do them after freshening up.''


    Taking casual clothes from the closet, he headed to the bathroom. He came out 20 minutes later, dressed up in a white full-sleeved t-shirt paired with black workout trousers. He dried his hairs a bit with the help of a small towel quickly.


    Coming back to his office, he took out a pair of black rimmed glasses and wore them. He sat down on his chair to work but was stopped by a growling sound coming from his stomach.


    ''I should eat something first.'' He thought and decided to head to the cafeteria.


    He stopped in his tracks once he was outside of his office. There was complete silence and most of the lights were even closed on the floor. But a cabin next to his office still had it''s lights on.


    ''Isn''t that Stella''s room?'' Adam thought while changing the direction of his steps. He couldn''t help but walk towards her cabin. ''Who could be in there at this hour?'' He continued to walk in it''s direction and opened the door slowly without making any sort of noise, and was stunned at what his eyes saw.


    Stella was sitting in her chair while working on her laptop with her head lowered slightly. He knocked on the door breaking her concentration. Stella looked up with a frown in between her delicate brows.


    "Good evening, Sir." She stood up seeing Adam at the door.


    "Good evening, but what are you doing here at this hour?" He asked her with his eyes narrowed slightly.


    "I still had some work to do and you were still here, so I decided to stay back and get my remaining work done." She replied to him.


    Adam looked at her quietly. The whole floor was engulfed in silence since everyone else had headed back to their homes.


    ''Looks like it''s just the two of us here now.'' He thought to himself, a smile threatening to bloom over his lips.

 A Date???

    "I am sorry. I usually don''t sleep this much." Adam apologized meekly, scratching the back of his head. "But you shouldn''t have stayed back." He added.


    "It''s not a big deal, Sir." Stella replied politely.


    "I was heading downstairs to grab a bite, would you like to join me?" Adam decided to make the most of the situation. ''Since I want to know more about her, I have to spend time with her.'' He thought.


    "It''s alright, I will order something for myself. Thank you." She declined his offer.


    ''CRAP! Think Adam, think. You don''t know when you will have another chance if you let this one go.'' He cursed himself.


    "Yes you can, but it will take sometime, especially at this hour. The roads are usually packed at this time." He replied with a faint smile, praising himself for thinking such an exceptionally good excuse. ''She can not decline me now. She''s buying it, I can see the struggle on her face.''


    Before Stella could say anything, he added, "It''s not like I am going somewhere else. I am just going downstairs to the cafeteria."


    "Isn''t it supposed to be closed at this hour?" Stella asked with confusion.


    "It is, but not for me. Are you forgetting that I am the boss?" He smirked.


    Stella shook her head sideways meekly in reply.


    "Then shall we go now?" Adam asked, his hand pointing towards the hallway only to get a nod in reply. ''Ahh! I need to make her feel comfortable around me so that she can at least talk a bit more around me.''


    Both of them walked to the elevator quietly next to each other. It was the first time that Stella got to use Adam''s private elevator.


    Reaching the 22nd floor, they exited, one after the other. They soon entered the cafeteria, but Adam kept walking across the hall entering another room which turned out to be the kitchen.


    Once they were in the kitchen, Adam called out, "Bob? Where are you old man? I am hungry and I need food. Oh and I have a guest with me as well."This story has been unlawfully obtained without the author''s consent. Report any appearances on Amazon.


    "You are the old one here. Who the hell are you calling old, huh?" A man in his early forties came out, almost screaming at the top of his lungs.


    "Easy man. We have a company here, at least respect the little lady." Adam replied with a chuckle.


    "You finally found yourself a girlfriend, and a pretty one too." Bob exclaimed, giving him a toothy smile.


    Adam glanced at Stella briefly, her cheeks tinged a shade of light pink. ''Oh, so she knows how to blush. She looks cute though. But now is not the right time to enjoy seeing her flushing.''


    "Bob! She''s my new assistant, not my girlfriend." He replied. ''Well not yet though.'' He thought the later part to himself.


    "Okay, okay. And here I thought, I finally had something to celebrate. Well, what would you like to eat lad?" He asked Adam.


    "Surprise me as usual." Adam smirked.


    "And what will this pretty girl be having?"


    "Umm¡­. I will have whatever Sir is having." She replied meekly.


    "As you say mademoiselle." Bob smiled at her politely.


    "Her name is Stella, stop making her uncomfortable. And Stella, meet Bob. Bob Rodriguez. He''s the head chef of our kitchen, but he usually just supervises and only cooks for me." Adam said slowly, introducing the two of them.


    "Hello Stella. It''s lovely to meet you. Why don''t you accompany this stupid boss of yours and wait out there? I will be done soon and bring out your dishes." Bob gave her a toothy smile.


    Stella just nodded in response. Adam led her out back to the sitting area and pulled out a chair for her. She sat down quietly.


    Adam sat opposite her, "What is it Stella?"


    Stella pursed her lips, then opened them, "Umm¡­ You wear glasses Sir?" She asked him, her eyes wide, looking at him intently.


    Adam was stunned for a moment then spoke up, "Yeah! I am a bit short sighted. But I wear them once in a while." He took a pause then continued, "Why do you ask ? Don''t I look good with these on?"


    "No. I mean you actually look a bit younger with these on. Moreover, I have never seen you in casual before. You don''t look like your usual self today." Stella replied, gathering her thoughts.


    "My usual self ?" Adam asked with his eyebrows raised, gray eyes looking back at those hazel ones.


    "The aloof CEO, Sir." Stella replied nodding her head.


    Her reply made Adam laugh hysterically which echoed through the quiet hall, making her eyebrows furrowed.


    "Never trust what you hear in the news. They manipulate things for their own benefits." Adam said, trying to control his laughter. "You will know whether I am aloof or not, sooner or later in the coming future little lady."


    "Who are you calling a little lady?" Stella asked him with a pouty face.


    Adam looked at her amusingly, "Do you see anyone else here other than you and me?"


    Stella scowled at him, "No, Sir."


    "The office hours over Stella. Stop calling me Sir." Adam was a bit annoyed at her. ''Why does she have to add Sir to every sentence.?''


    "But-" She said but Adam interrupted her. "No buts."


    "Okay." She relented.


    Soon Bob arrived with their dishes. Putting them down before them, he exclaimed, "Bon appetit." and disappeared back to the kitchen.


    "Ss- I mean since Bob cooks for you then why did Bella order your food from a restaurant the day I interviewed?" Stella asked him out of nowhere.


    "Because it was his granddaughter''s birthday, so he took off and went to see her. He just returned this morning. And before you ask, yes, he was the one who made my breakfast today. Now eat before the food gets cold." Adam answered all of her queries with patience.


    Both of them started eating in silence with Adam discreetly glancing at her once in a while.

 Not On His Watch

    After getting done with their meal, both of them returned back to their respective cabins.


    Adam busied himself in the files, losing track of time. He only bothered to look up when the door of his office was knocked. He had an idea of who it might be.


    "Yes Stella. Do you need something?." He asked her with a smile.


    "No Sir. I just brought you some coffee. It''s almost 9 and you are still working. So, I thought you might need it." She replied politely.


    It was only then that he noticed the small tray in her hands with his cup on it, steam blowing out from it. "Thank you so much for being so considerate of me." Adam gave her a big goofy smile.


    "And what happened to not calling me Sir after office hours?" He asked, raising a brow at her when she was placing the cup before him.


    "It''s just that I am not used to address you without it." She replied.


    "I know. But you will get used to it with time. All you have to do is start calling me by my name." Adam spoke slowly as if he was talking to a child.


    "But---" She only spoke a word just to be interrupted by him, "No buts. And I am just asking you to call me by name after office hours. Come on, you can do that. It''s not that hard."


    "O-okay." Stella reluctantly agreed to him.


    "Okay what?" He wasn''t going to let her go this easily, not unless she called him but his name. He didn''t know why but he wanted to know how would his name sound coming from her mouth. ''Say it, just say it Stella, please!'' He was almost begging her internally.


    "Okay A-A-Adam." She said, his name almost a whisper, but he still caught at it.


    "Huh?" Adam feigned innocence as if did not hear it.


    "I said, okay Adam." She almost rolled back her eyes at him.


    He was stunned for a moment. They way she had said Adam, made him realize that not even once he had found his name coming out from another person''s mouth to be so melodious. Or maybe it wasn''t his name but her voice who was this melodious.Ensure your favorite authors get the support they deserve. Read this novel on Royal Road.


    "That''s more like it." He said. "Are you done with your work by the way?"


    "Almost, there''s only a bit left, I leave after doing that." She replied.


    "Then why don''t you bring it over here? I am kind of getting bored here. I will do mine and you can do yours. And then we can leave." He suggested politely taking a sip of his coffee. ''Hmm, she makes a good coffee.'' she sighed softly.


    "Umm¡­ Okay." She replied hesitatingly.


    Stella left and came back in two minutes with her laptop and and a file. She sat down across him and put down her stuff.


    They both busied themselves in their own work. Adam sipped on his coffee every now and then, taking tiny glances at her from behind his coffee mug. She had her head down, reading something with full concentration.


    ''I wish that someday, I will be able to hold all of your interest.'' He thought to himself.


    He was already done with his work but since he saw she was still busy doing something on her laptop, he decided not to disturb her.


    He logged into a word game and played it for a while but soon got bored. He then glanced at the girl before him, his eyes tracing her petite features, taking in her every expression and storing them in his memories. The way her eyes widen a bit as if she had discovered something new, the way her brows furrowed as if she wasn''t pleased with what she saw, the way her tongue licked her lips every now and then to moisten them, he liked every single thing about her.


    ''You are definitely doomed Adam.'' He pitied himself inwardly.


    "Why do you have so much work? I don''t remember assigning that much to you." He couldn''t help but ask her.


    "It''s actually assigned by the Vice President." She replied without looking up at him.


    "When did he assign it to you?" He asked.


    "Today." She replied.


    "And when do you have to submit it?" He investigated further.


    "Tomorrow morning." His brows furrowed deeply listening to her reply.


    ''Looks like it is time to make some changes around here.'' He was aggrieved.


    "Stop it! You don''t have to do this work." He stopped Stella moving it slightly aside.


    Before she could speak up, he continued, "He has his own assistant. He could have asked her to do it. In fact, it should have been her to do this work, not you, if not for the fact they have screwing each other around. She gets paid for her the job she doesn''t do."


    Stella''s eyes widened a bit registering what Adam had just told her.


    "Next time be aware of what happens around you. The entire office knows about this. And more importantly, you are my assistant, not his. You will only do the work which I tell you to, not what others say. Get it?" He was slightly angered.


    Stella only nodded meekly.


    ''How could she just let others use herself? If it wasn''t for me asking about it, I would have never known about it and all the credit must have gone to his assistant.''


    "Go pack your things right now, and don''t worry about the matter, I''ll handle it my way. And I''ll make sure that no one else will bully you again just because you are new." He added, his tone was a bit more polite than before.


    "Okay." She said and left to get the rest of her belongings.


    Adam stood up after she left, he walked to the floor to ceiling glass wall, watching in the distance. His eyes were fierce now.


    ''I have been ignoring what that sleazeball has been doing for so long just because he had been by my Dad''s side for so long. But not anymore. He dared to bully the little elf, I will make sure he regrets it, along with that secretary of his.'' He was angered to the bones this time.


    ''No one can bully his staff, especially not the little elf. No one can bully her, not on his watch.''

 Hop-in

    Picking up his phone and car keys, Adam headed outside. He found Stella coming out with her stuff in her hands. They headed downstairs taking the elevator. Outside the building''s entrance, Adam asked her, "How are you going to return back home?"


    "I usually take the bus, but since it''s late, I''ll have to take the subway." Stella replied.


    "What? No! It''s too late. You aren''t taking anything. I''ll drop you off." He exclaimed in response.


    "It''s alright! I am used to it. So, it won''t be a problem for me." She replied politely.


    "No way. It doesn''t matter whether or not you are used to it, I am not going to let you go home alone at this hour. Not in the bus or the subway." Adam was adamant.


    ''How could I let her be on her own, and that too late.'' He thought furrowing his brows.


    "Where do you live by the way?" Adam spoke without giving her a chance to say anything.


    Stella told him her address to which he replied, "That''s great. I live close to that place, so I will drop you off."


    "But---" Stella was cut off once again by a certain someone, "It won''t be a problem for me since I am going in the same direction. You have no reason to decline me now."


    Stella could only reply with an okay to the unrelenting man before her who always wanted things to go his way.


    "Stay right here, I bring out my car." He said heading to the underground parking lot.


    In less than two minutes, a sleek black car stopped before Stella, the window on her side rolled down, "Hop-in."


    Stella sat inside quietly and fastened her seat belt.


    The car headed to its first destination for the night. It was uncannily quiet inside the car. Adam decided to strike up a conversation.


    "So, you live alone or with your family?"


    "No, it''s just me." Stella replied looking outside.If you spot this story on Amazon, know that it has been stolen. Report the violation.


    "No roommates?" Adam was adamant to know more about her.


    "No. At least not at the moment, but there was one. We used to share the apartment but then she left and moved in with her boyfriend around three months ago." She replied calmly, still looking outside the window glass, deep in her thoughts.


    The only response Adam gave her was an ''Oh''.


    Stella actually came from a well off family. She was an only child and was adored by both of her parents. But when she was eleven, she lost both of her parents in a car accident. They had gone to attend a party. They wanted Stella to go with them but she wasn''t in the mood that day so she stayed back at home with her maternal aunt. When the news of their death came, the little girl was utterly devastated. It was as if she had lost her entire world in just one night.


    She spent her next few days locked up in her room, refusing to eat or drink. Her aunt had to take  her to a psychologist. Though she did return to her normal daily routine after a couple of sessions but she was never the same again. The lively young Stella who always caused troubles for others was no more. It was as if she had suddenly grown up.


    Two months after her parent''s death, she was taken under the care of her paternal uncle. He was married and had two children of his own, a boy and a girl. Therefore, Stella never got treated fairly. Whenever the children had a fight, she was the one receiving the shorter end of the stick.


    She worked harder and harder, striving for success, just so she could leave that hell hole. And there she was today, working in one of the biggest corporations of Germany.


    Stella was reminiscing about her past when a deep voice brought her back to the present.


    "Stella? I asked you something."


    "Huh?" She was confused as she did not hear what he had said.


    "Where are you lost to? I said there''s this product launch by the end of this week. There will be a banquet after the ceremony. I am invited too, as they once collaborated with us in the past. So, would you like to accompany me that day?" He asked while looking ahead on the road.


    "I don''t like such events. I am sorry." She apologized.


    "It''s not like that I like them. I actually don''t at all. If I could, I would stay cooped up in my place, reading a good book. But I don''t have a choice sometimes, actually most of the time. So, I have to go and show my face." Adam tried to reason with her. "And since you are my assistant, you can accompany me there. Please don''t say no."


    "What if I do say no?" She asked with an amusing smile on her face, her brows raised up ever so slightly.


    "Umm¡­ then I will come to your place and force you to go with me." Adam chuckled looking at her. "It''s not like that I don''t know where you live."


    Stella¡¯s brows raised a bit more as her smile deepened, "Oh, really?"


    "Yeah. The thing is, I will be bored to death there. I don''t like such events because all they talk about is business. Why bother throwing a banquet or a party when you want to talk about business?" Adam replied. "And I like your company, so I will be less bored."


    "I never knew that a businessman like you can get bored while talking about business." Stella said to which Adam replied with a pitiful smile on his face, "That''s the thing. People don''t know about the 20 year old boy who took over the Levinson''s Corp. four years back. They only know Adam Levinson, the President of Levinson''s Corp."


    Stella looked at him, as if trying to find something hidden behind his expressions. "Okay. I will accompany you, but there''s one condition." She spoke up after a minute.


    "What condition?" Adam was delighted to hear her answer. ''I would agree to anything as long as she accompanies me.'' He thought to himself.


    "I won''t dress up. I don''t like wearing those fancy gowns." She said, turning her head to look ahead through the car''s windshield.


    "That''s it? Okay. I agree. You can wear whatever you like." Adam was over the clouds.


    There weren''t many cars on the road as it was a bit late. Adam stopped the car outside her apartment''s building.


    Stella stepped outside and turned back, "Thanks Adam." She said with a big smile on her face.


    "You''re welcome. Now go inside."


    Adam only drove away once he saw her enter the building.

 Hand Me Your Phone

    Next day, Adam arrived at the office on time. He was greeted by Bella on his way to his office, "Good morning, Sir."


    "Morning Bella." He replied to her politely.


    "Sir, Stella hasn''t arrived yet. If you need anything, you can call me." She informed him


    "What? Why hasn''t she? Is she okay?" He couldn''t help but get worried.


    "Sir, I tried calling, but couldn''t get through to her." Bella replied apologetically.


    "Okay." Adam went inside his office room. He was still worried for her.


    "She''s all alone by herself. What if she falls ill? Should I go to her place or not?" He thought out loud.


    He was starting to get panicked. He took a couple of deep breaths to calm himself down.


    ''She slept late last night, must be just running late.''


    He tried convincing himself. Thinking about last night he remembered that he still had to deal with that sleazeball.


    Thinking about last night made his blood boil in anger again. ''How dare he order other staff members to do the work of that immoral assistant of his. I have to teach him a lesson that he won''t be able to forget any time soon.''


    He buzzed Bella through the intercom. He asked her to call a meeting of the heads of department in an hour.


    He sat down on his swiveling chair and stared outside through the floor to ceiling glass wall.


    He heaved out a long sigh turning back to face his desk and busied himself looking through the emails. It was already pretty late when he reached his house last night, so he didn''t bother to look at them. Most importantly, he wasn''t in the mood to. Therefore, there were a lot of them. Although Bella filtered them and only forwarded him the most important ones, there were still quite a few. Taken from Royal Road, this narrative should be reported if found on Amazon.


    Half an hour later, someone entered after knocking on the dark wood door.


    "Good morning, Sir." He was greeted by an angelic voice.


    Adam snapped his head up to see someone familiar standing before his desk.


    "I am sorry for being late. I slept in." She said scratching the back of her head.


    "It''s alright." Adam smiled at her.


    Adam looked at her and thought to himself, ''No wonder I was shocked when I heard her voice out of nowhere.''


    She wasn''t wearing heels like she usually did. Instead she was wearing black sneakers today that had golden stripes on the sides. She was dressed up a bit casually today, dressed up in ripped blue jeans paired with a black long-sleeved crop top that showed a bit of her fair waist. Her hairs tied up in a messy bun with a few locks escaping out, framing her small face. He noticed that there was something written on her shirt.


    ''What are you looking at?'' Adam burst out laughing reading it.


    Stella was frozen in her spot, rooted to the ground thinking that he must have been laughing on her attire. "I am sorry, Sir. I didn''t have time to change into something formal." She lowered her head down as if she was feeling ashamed of herself.


    It was then that Adam realized that she must have misunderstood the reason for his laughing. "What are you being sorry about? It''s not that I am laughing on you or the way you have dressed up. It''s totally up to you, you can wear whatever you like. I just found what''s written on your shirt a bit funny." He explained it to her slowly.


    "In fact I wouldn''t even mind you dressing up like this regularly rather than in some professional attire." He added, smiling. ''Moreover, you look more cute when you are casually dressed up.'' He kept the later part to himself.


    "Thank you, Sir." She said.


    "You don''t have to thank me for anything Stella." He spoke, gentleness evident in his words.


    "By the way, give me your phone." He asked, extending his hand towards her.


    "Uh?" He could see confusion written on her face in bold letters.


    "Hand me your phone, Stella." He asked her again.


    Stella reluctantly gave her phone to him.


    "Unlock it." Adam asked her politely. She did as she was told.


    He punched in a number and saved it. His phone rang a few seconds later. He gave her back her phone.


    "I have saved my phone number in there. You can give me a call whenever you need to. And don''t even bother hesitating when doing it." He added with a gentle smile.


    Stella looked like she wanted to say something but was being doubtful.


    "Stella! What did I tell you about keeping things to yourself?" He reminded her.


    She finally spoke up after contemplating for a minute, "Why? Why are you doing this? Why are you being so good to me?"


    "Don''t take me or my actions wrongly, please. It''s just that you are good at your job and I know how to appreciate my staff, especially when they are hard working." He said. ''Also, I have taken a liking to you.'' He chose to keep the later part to himself.


    "Moreover, you live by yourself. What if you get in some sort of trouble." He added.


    Stella was left dumbstruck hearing his answer, particularly the second one. She couldn''t say anything in return. After a while she opened her mouth, "Thank you so much. I will keep that in mind." She gave him a hearty smile.


    He smiled back at her.


    "There will be a meeting in half an hour, be there. Don''t forget it." He reminded her as she went back to her office.

 You Are Fired

    Half an hour later, everyone was present in the big meeting room, waiting for their big boss. Almost everyone''s eyes were settled on the glass door.


    <strong style="font-weight: normal">


    A few minutes later, the sound of footsteps could be heard approaching the room. This was probably the only meeting room which didn''t have a good insulation and voices could be heard outside. Adam had his own reasons for choosing this room.


    <strong style="font-weight: normal">


    The door of the meeting room opened and a man stepped in, fixing his cuffs. His gaze passed over every single person seated inside, making them straighten their backs. Many of those sitting there had been working for years in the company. Many of them had served by his father''s side.


    <strong style="font-weight: normal">


    His gaze rested on a particular someone who had made his blood boil in anger last night. ''I have had enough of him.'' He thought to himself.


    <strong style="font-weight: normal">


    He was followed by a little girl who seemed harmless. Many people there haven''t seen her before, but were left awestruck by her.


    <strong style="font-weight: normal">


    Adam headed further inside the room, he sat on his chair, his head held high. He had the aura of a king who was about to kick out traitors from his empire.


    <strong style="font-weight: normal">


    He looked at Stella and pointed at the empty seat to his right. On his left sat the Vice President of the company. Stella quietly sat down by his side.


    <strong style="font-weight: normal">


    "You guys must be wondering why I call for an urgent meeting. Well, to begin with, we are going to clear trash from our company." Adam spoke up, his voice laced with confidence as a glint passed through those deep gray eyes.


    <strong style="font-weight: normal">


    His statement left everyone baffled. No one could speak up for a while. They knew the hidden meaning behind his words. In other words, people were going to get fired today. As for how many? That was something only he knew.


    <strong style="font-weight: normal">


    Adam decided to start with a few small pests first. He fired them on the spot, without giving them any chance to explain their deeds. He had been ignoring their wrong doings for a long time now. They have used the company''s name for their own benefits, not once but many times. He had turned a blind eye to them and here they thought he didn''t know anything. As long as it involved his company, he would know all about it.


    <strong style="font-weight: normal">


    They sure had some guts now, using the company''s money as if they owned it.


    <strong style="font-weight: normal">


    ''Looks like I have been quite lenient towards my staff. It''s time to show them their places.'' He thought with a smirk.


    <strong style="font-weight: normal">


    "You guys thought just because I don''t say anything, I wouldn''t know anything either. Right?" He asked them with a dangerous glint in his eyes.


    Though he still had a faint smile on his face, it was enough to send shivers running down their spines.


    <strong style="font-weight: normal">


    "My lawyers will get in contact with you later on in the day. Each one of you will get legal notices and have to pay every single penny back to the company that you spent on yourselves so leisurely." He added on. "Now, get out."


    <strong style="font-weight: normal">


    Before any of them could utter a single word in his defense, people clad in black uniforms entered the room, and dragged them outside.This book was originally published on Royal Road. Check it out there for the real experience.


    <strong style="font-weight: normal">


    Just like that, he had fired four people. The rest of the people were thanking heavens that they didn''t do anything wrong by the company or their Boss.


    <strong style="font-weight: normal">


    Getting rid of those tiny pests, Adam decided to deal with the biggest one.


    <strong style="font-weight: normal">


    "Mr. Parker! What about the file that I asked Bella to hand over to you two days before? I have to go through it now, so that I can finalize the deal sooner." He asked the Vice President. He somehow had an idea that he didn''t know that Stella hadn''t done what he asked her to.


    <strong style="font-weight: normal">


    "Sure, Sir. My assistant has it with her right now. She is very diligent when it comes to work. She had completed it last night. I was going to bring it to you but you had called for a meeting." He didn''t forget to praise his secretary in front of everyone present there.


    <strong style="font-weight: normal">


    Stella was frozen in her seat when she heard his reply. She was already stunned by how Adam had dealt with those morons earlier. No wonder he was able to lead such a big corporation despite his young age.


    <strong style="font-weight: normal">


    She took a peek at Adam who was already looking at her with his eyes narrowed as if saying '' You got played.'' She couldn''t help but look down at her knotted hands on the table with guilt written on his face.


    <strong style="font-weight: normal">


    Mr. Parker thought that since Stella had been in the company for a couple of days only, she must be scared of him as he was the Vice President and could get her fired easily.


    <strong style="font-weight: normal">


    "Oh really? Then where''s the file?" Adam spoke up.


    <strong style="font-weight: normal">


    Mr. Parker called his assistant to hand over the file but didn''t notice that she was fidgeting in the back. She stepped ahead and whispered something in his ear.


    <strong style="font-weight: normal">


    "I am sorry, Sir. It looks like my assistant has already handed over the file to your assistant. Where is the file Stella? Didn''t you give it to your Boss?" He said, bringing everyone''s attention to her.


    <strong style="font-weight: normal">


    "Stella where''s the file?" Adam looked at her with a serious face. She couldn''t understand what he was thinking. He gazed into those deep gray orbs which were like a vortex, sucking in everything. But somehow, she felt assured looking into them.


    <strong style="font-weight: normal">


    "I am sorry, Sir." She lowered her head and took a long pause. "But I don''t know which file Mr. Parker is talking about. His assistant didn''t hand me over any file." She continued, looking up at Adam, her eyes blazing with rage. Adam smiled at her in response.


    <strong style="font-weight: normal">


    "Why are you lying? If she said she did, it means she did. What did you do to the file?" Mr. Parker slammed his hands on the table, shouting at her.


    <strong style="font-weight: normal">


    "I really don''t know what you are talking about. I have been with Sir since the morning. If you don''t believe me, you can ask him." She blinked innocently with her brows furrowed as if she was being wronged.


    <strong style="font-weight: normal">


    Adam was having a hard time controlling himself. He wanted to laugh so badly right now.


    <strong style="font-weight: normal">


    "What are you talking about? I gave the file to you myself to finish it before today and hand it back to me. How dare you say otherwise?" Mr. Parker was enraged.


    <strong style="font-weight: normal">


    Stella only smiled at him in response innocently.


    <strong style="font-weight: normal">


    It was only then, he realized what he had spoken in his fit of rage, his eyes widening as realization hit him. He looked around the room to find everyone looking at him with disgust.


    <strong style="font-weight: normal">


    On the other hand, Adam was lost in his own world. ''This little lady knows how to be fierce as well. And did she just use me as a scapegoat? Wasn''t she worried that I may not side with her? It means she trusts me, even if a tiny bit, but she does and that''s more than enough for me.''


    <strong style="font-weight: normal">


    He stared at his favorite pair of eyes that were looking back at him, with a gentle smile.


    <strong style="font-weight: normal">


    After a minute or two he turned his left, his expressions changing to fierce. "You are fired along with your assistant."


    <strong style="font-weight: normal">


    He stood up, "Meeting is over. I hope it serves as a reminder for everyone else."


    <strong style="font-weight: normal">


    He left the room with Stella following him.<strong style="font-weight: normal">