She had not expected Mr. Quinn to publicize their relationship in such a manner, especially without informing her beforehand. Being taken unaware was something she despised, and this unexpected announcement left her feeling exposed and vulnerable.
Whispers and side conversations quickly filled the room as the news sank in. Some employees couldn't hide their surprise, their eyes widening in disbelief. They had no idea that the boss and his assistant had been having a romantic affair. A mixture of emotions filled the room, ranging from excitement to disappointment.
Some employees seemed genuinely happy for Mr. Quinn and Annabelle, offering congratulations and warm smiles. They saw it as a sign of their boss's happiness and believed it would positively impact the workplace. However, not everyone shared the joyous sentiment. A few disgruntled employees exchanged glances, their expressions betraying a hint of resentment. They believed that favoritism and nepotism might come into play, which could potentially hinder their own career growth.
As Annabelle stood there, trying to digest the situation and fix her shocked expression, she felt a mix of emotions. She couldn't help but feel uneasy about the sudden revelation. She worried about the potential backlash, both personally and professionally.
Mr. Quinn continued the meeting, addressing any concerns or questions, but Annabelle's mind was elsewhere. She couldn't help but wonder how this announcement would affect her relationship with her colleagues and the dynamics in the workplace.
After the meeting was concluded and the staff dismissed Annabelle informed Mr Quinn they needed to talk immediately. Edwards instructed her to follow him back to his office
Annabelle and Edwards entered the office, the tension palpable between them. Annabelle took a deep breath, trying to calm her racing heart as she prepared to address her concerns head-on.
"What do you intend to discuss?" Edwards asked, his tone betraying his feigned ignorance. Annabelle could detect a hint of playfulness in his voice, which only served to fuel her frustration.
"Why did you announce the marriage without discussing it with me first?" she questioned, her anger seeping through her words. "You were supposed to give me a heads up, not take me unaware. It's stated in the contract, so adhere to the rules," she added, emphasizing her professional obligations and boundaries.
Edwards listened intently, his expression shifting from playful to understanding. "I'm sorry, Annabelle, if my sudden announcement angered you," he replied sincerely. "I thought it was for the best. We need everything to look real, especially because my father, the chairman, will likely do some digging. By spreading rumors amongst the staff, it'll create a certain level of authenticity."
Annabelle took a moment to process his explanation. She hadn't considered the implications of his actions from that angle. It made sense, in a way. Having rumors circulating among the staff would give their relationship the appearance of authenticity, deterring any further examination from Edwards' father.
Realizing that there were more layers to this situation than she had initially realized, Annabelle softened her tone. "You're right," she conceded. "I didn't think of it that way. But please, in the future, inform me of every decision related to our contract. Communication is key, especially when it pertains to our personal and professional lives intertwining."
Edwards nodded, a small smirk playing on his lips. "You have my word," he replied. "I understand the importance of communication, especially now that our relationship has been exposed to the company. We need to navigate this situation carefully, ensuring that we put up a fake loving image within the company's premises.
Annabelle nodded and then left the office.
***
Annabelle sat on her bed, deep in thought. She needed someone to play the role of a relative, someone who could back up her fake identity at work. She had managed to enter the company under a false name, and her boss, Edwards, was completely unaware of her facade. But she knew it was only a matter of time before the truth came out, and she needed a contingency plan.
Just as she was lost in her thoughts, her phone buzzed, startling her. It was a text from her brother, Alex. He had sent her the location of the hotel where he had just checked in. Annabelle was taken aback; Alex had booked the nearest flight to come and meet her, despite the considerable distance between them. She couldn't believe he was going to be here in person.
She quickly gathered herself and drove to the hotel where Alex was staying. As she entered the lounge, her eyes searched for her brother's familiar face. Finally, she spotted him sitting in a corner, looking relaxed but distant. She slowly approached him, feeling a mix of excitement and apprehension.
"Sweating already, aren't you?" Alex said, not bothering to hide the frustration in his voice as he ignored her greeting. "I'm not here for pleasantries, Annabelle. I need answers."
Annabelle took a seat opposite him, trying to hide her nervousness. She knew this conversation wasn't going to be easy. Alex had always been protective of her.
"I'm sorry, Alex," she finally said, her voice filled with guilt. "I know I should have told you, but things got complicated. It's... it's Edwards Quinn."
Alex's eyes widened in disbelief. He slammed his hands down on the table, his voice laced with anger.