For a few weeks, things between Sam and I started to shift. It wasn't just about work anymore. He began to involve me in more personal tasks, things that weren't part of my job description. Sometimes, he'd ask me to pick up files from his house; other times, it was arranging private meetings or handling his calls. It felt strange, yet I couldn't deny how much I enjoyed the trust he was placing in me. The line between our professional and personal relationship was slowly blurring, and I wasn't sure what to make of it.
One day, after reviewing some confidential documents, he leaned back in his chair and said, "You've been handling a lot lately. I appreciate it." His tone was softer, almost reflective.
"Thank you," I replied, unsure of how to respond. I could feel the weight of his gaze like he was trying to figure me out.
"I don't ask just anyone to do what you've been doing," he added, his voice lowering. "A lot is going on in my life and some of my business right now—things you don't know about."
I paused, sensing the tension in the air. "You can trust me, Sam," I said, trying to keep things professional even though I was curious to know.
"I know," he replied, his eyes locking with mine for a moment too long. "That's why I keep involving you."
During lunch in his office, Sam said something that made me pause. "You're the only person I've let in this close, Natalie." His voice was low, almost as if he didn't want to admit it out loud.
I looked at him, confused. "What do you mean?"
He sighed, staring at the glass of water in front of him. "Most people… they see the money, the power. They don't care about the person behind it. But with you, it's different."
I didn't know what to say. I was so confused, trying to understand what was happening between us. "I just want to do my job well," I finally managed to say, my voice sounding unsure, even to me.
He smiled, but it didn't reach his eyes. "You're doing more than that," he said.
I nodded, trying to process how Sam seemed to be opening up in a way I hadn't expected. "It's nice to know you care about that," I said, my voice softening.
"Of course," he replied, his gaze steady. "You work hard, and I appreciate that. It makes me want to know more about you."
As we continued to talk, the conversation took on a more relaxed tone. He was still my boss, but the boundaries felt like they were fading
Then, surprisingly, he shifted the conversation to a more personal note. "So, tell me, how's your family doing?" I mean your father and Mother?
I blinked, caught off guard by the question. "We're just three of us now. My dad left after a fight with my mom when I was 12. He came back two years later, and my mom got pregnant again, but after that, he disappeared. We haven't seen or heard from him since. But my mom and little sister are doing okay," I replied cautiously.
He nodded, his expression thoughtful. "I'm glad to hear that they're fine. Family is important. You never know what life throws at you."
I felt a strange warmth at his concern. "Thank you for asking. It means a lot," I replied, trying to gauge his sincerity.
"I just think it's important to know the people we work with beyond just their job titles," he said. There was a hint of vulnerability in his voice, something I rarely saw in him.
With a serious expression. "Where exactly do they live? You've mentioned it before, but I don't think I ever got the details."
I hesitated. Why was he asking about my home? "We live on Charlotte Street, about a forty-minute drive from here. It's just a room and a small kitchen on a quiet street. Nothing fancy, but it's what we can afford."
Sam's brows furrowed slightly, and there was a flicker of something—concern? Frustration?—in his eyes. "That doesn't sound like enough space, especially for your family of three. You shouldn't be living like that, Natalie."
I was taken aback. "It's fine. I think we are managing that for now."
He leaned forward, his tone firm. "No, you shouldn't just be managing. You've been working hard, and I've noticed the results. It's time I review your payment structure."
I stared at him, confused. "What do you mean?"
Sam sighed as if he'd been thinking about this for a while. "You've done more than enough for this company, and beyond that, you've handled every task I've thrown at you with skill. I'm increasing your pay, Natalie. And I want you and your family to move to a better place. I'll help with the transition."
I was speechless. "Sam, that's… I don't know what to say, and this was not part of the contract I signed. I wasn't expecting this."
He waved off my protest. "You don't have to say anything. I want to make sure you're not worried about your living situation anymore. You've earned it."
A whirlwind of emotions hit me all at once. His words were kind, but they were also personal, too personal. Why did he care so much? I tried to brush off the strange feeling in my chest, but the truth was, I felt something shift inside me. This wasn't just about the job anymore.
As the evening settled in, I picked my hand bag and a few documents, ready to head home. Just as I was about to leave, Sam offered, "Let me drop you off at your place."
I hesitated, unsure of how I felt about him seeing where I lived. "You don't have to. I can manage."
He looked at me, his voice soft but insistent. "I insist. Please."
After a moment, I nodded, and we headed toward my house in his sleek car. The drive was quiet, the hum of the engine the only sound between us. As we neared my street, I pointed ahead. "You can stop here."
The car slowed to a halt, and just as I was about to step out, I spotted my mom and Bella standing near the doorway. My heart melted, and I quickly alighted from the car, hoping they wouldn't suspect anything.
I rushed towards them, trying to act casual. But I knew my mom had questions—she'd been meaning to ask how I managed to pay off the debt and keep buying groceries. Her eyes lingered on Sam's car for a moment before I quickly led them inside.