At Pierce Industries on Monday, the typical busyness was evident, yet Natalie felt a shift. As she strolled through the contemporary corridors of the company, she couldn't stop thinking about the weekend retreat.
Natalie entered her workspace quietly, putting her bag away and starting her laptop, excited to immerse herself in work. Her phone made a buzzing sound as soon as she sat down, interrupting her from getting comfortable.
"Come to my office. We need to discuss the upcoming project.".
Natalie's breath caught in her throat, causing her to gasp. He often texted her, but she couldn't ignore the tightness in her chest. She anxiously glanced around, trying to keep her composure intact. She kept telling herself it was just a meeting, paying attention to controlling her breath.
Curious about her sudden nerves, she straightened her shirt before heading towards the elevator from where she stood up. She comprehended the cause for the shift in their relationship that occurred during the retreat. It was subtle, but undeniable. The retreat's aim was to strengthen team relationships, but she found herself increasingly drawn to Alexander and noticed a slight weakening of his barriers.
A sound was heard as the elevator reached the executive floor. Natalie left and made her way to Alexander's office. The woman, always impeccably dressed, nodded at Natalie and motioned for her to come in.
Upon her arrival at the office, Alexander was standing next to the floor-to-ceiling windows, his distinct outline outlined by the lively cityscape outside. As she came near, he glanced in her direction, his blue eyes meeting hers with the same mysterious intensity that had made her feel uneasy during the weekend.
"He instructed, motioning towards the seat in front of his desk." . Though his tone remained steady, he gazed at her intently, studying her face as if he were seeking something, holding his gaze longer than needed.
Natalie took a seat and placed her hands in her lap for support.
"We have to complete the preparation for the board meeting next week," he mentioned while passing a file to her. "I would like to hear your thoughts on the new data forecasts."
Natalie agreed with a nod, browsing the pages while he sat in front of her. He filled the room with his presence, making it difficult for her to concentrate on her work. Occasionally, she sensed his gaze fixed upon her, analyzing, assessing.
They talked about the project for approximately thirty minutes, focussing solely on business matters. However, despite their professionalism, the tension was easily detectable. There was no explicit recognition of the events that occurred at the retreat, no reference to the brief instances when their barriers had started to break down, but the shift was evident, understated yet undeniable.
After they finished, Alexander leaned back in his chair with a steady gaze. "Recently, your work has been impressive, Natalie," he commented, speaking in a quieter tone than earlier.
She packed up her belongings, avoiding his gaze, and responded with gratitude. Under his gaze, she could sense the warmth spreading across her cheeks.
As she was about to stand up and go, Alexander's voice caused her to pause. "I want you to come to the executive floor more frequently," he mentioned casually. "There's a busy workload, and I have faith in your decision-making abilities."
Natalie stopped for a moment, her heartbeat momentarily faltering. "Sure," she responded, making an effort to maintain her professionalism. "I will ensure that I am accessible."
When she exited his office, the gravity of the conversation sank in. The noticeable change between them was now unmistakable, and it went beyond just their professional relationship.
Afterwards that evening, Natalie sat on her couch holding a glass of wine, attempting to let go of the day. Her tiny apartment was warm and welcoming, in stark contrast to the sterile walls of Pierce Industries. Her phone vibrating disrupted her thoughts. Karen was her closest friend.
Karen: ***What about having some wine tonight? You seem like you require it.
Natalie grinned and responded promptly.
**Natalie:** *Halfway through already.*
Karen had been a pillar of support for her ever since she lost her parents. Not being able to keep them was the most difficult challenge Natalie ever encountered. Being an only child made their absence all the more isolating for her, as they were her entire world. Her friend was the one who helped her out of her dark place, providing comfort without Natalie having to ask for it.
Shortly after, there was a ring at her doorbell, and Karen came in holding a bottle of wine and wearing a playful smile. "I have brought additional support."
Natalie expressed gratitude by calling the person a lifesaver while making room for her to enter.
Karen sat down on the couch and narrowed her eyes as she examined Natalie. "All right, tell me everything." You've been behaving strangely since you returned from that retreat.
Natalie paused, nibbling on her lip. In what way could she clarify the events occurring without coming across as absurd? She started ambiguously with, "It's just... work matters."
Karen lifted one eyebrow, obviously not believing it. "Business matters?" Is that true? Nat, I have been acquainted with you for many years. I can see through your attempts to conceal information from me. She filled a glass for herself and reclined. "So, what is actually happening?"
Natalie sighed and took a long sip of her wine before speaking. "This is Alexander. "The person in charge of me."
Karen raised her eyebrow in astonishment. Is that you, Alexander? Is the CEO brooding and too attractive for his own good? What is the situation with him?"
Natalie nodded her head, feeling ashamed. "It's not a big deal." I mean, nothing has occurred. It's simply... I have no idea. There is a shift in the dynamics of our relationship. I suppose he has become more attentive recently. "It's difficult to put into words."
Karen grinned smugly. "How do you pay close attention?" Is he showing interest?
"I have no idea," Natalie sighed, feeling frustrated with her own lack of knowledge. Perhaps? He has been giving me a different look; do you understand? We have been collaborating more frequently recently. I'm not sure if what I'm seeing is real or just in my head.
Karen emitted a soft whistle. Wow, girl. It seems like someone is really struggling.
Natalie insisted that it wasn't true, but her flushed cheeks revealed otherwise. I can't allow it to stay that way. He is my superior at work, and I have put in a lot of effort to avoid being involved in... whatever this situation is.
Karen looked at her with sympathy. I understand, Nat. Just make sure to be cautious, all right? Make sure it's worth it before allowing this guy to manipulate your thoughts.
Natalie gave a nod, sensing the gravity of her friend's words. She was uncertain about what was going on with Alexander, but one thing was apparent—situations were evolving. Regardless of her preference, she was unable to prevent thoughts of him from occupying her mind.