Alicia's first week in her new role was intense. The project management team was dynamic, demanding, and often chaotic, but Alicia quickly found her footing. It was clear why Stephen had recommended her—her ability to multitask, delegate, and think on her feet proved invaluable.
What surprised her, however, was how often she found herself crossing paths with Stephen. As CEO, he was heavily involved in major projects, and her new role required frequent check-ins with him. Their interactions remained professional, but there was an undercurrent of something unspoken between them—something neither seemed ready to address.
Late one afternoon, Stephen called for a team meeting to discuss a high-priority project. Alicia sat near the corner of the conference table, quietly taking notes as Stephen outlined their objectives.
"The timeline is tight," Stephen said, glancing around the room. "But I trust this team to deliver."
His gaze lingered on Alicia for a moment longer than necessary. She felt a flicker of warmth in his expression, but she quickly pushed it aside.
As the meeting ended, Stephen caught up with Alicia in the hallway.
"How are you settling in?" he asked.
"It's a lot of work, but I'm managing," she replied, keeping her tone neutral.
Stephen nodded, his hands in his pockets. "If you ever feel overwhelmed, my door is always open."
"Thank you," Alicia said politely before excusing herself.
But as she walked away, she couldn't help wondering if his offer was purely professional—or if it carried something deeper.
Back at home, Emma was unusually cheerful. Alicia noticed her humming a tune as she set the table for dinner.
"Good day?" Alicia asked, raising an eyebrow.
Emma grinned. "Daniel called. He wants to take me to the museum this weekend."
Alicia frowned. "Emma, are you sure this is a good idea? Getting involved with someone from Stephen's family could complicate things."
Emma's smile faltered. "Alicia, I'm not a kid anymore. I like Daniel, and he's been nothing but kind to me."
"I'm not saying he's a bad person," Alicia said carefully. "I just don't want you to get hurt."
Emma's expression softened. "I know you're looking out for me, but I think this is worth exploring. Don't you think I deserve a little happiness, too?"
Alicia sighed, unable to argue. "Just be careful, okay?"
"I will," Emma promised.
---
The following week, Alicia stayed late at the office to finish a report. Most of the staff had already gone home, and the building was quiet. As she gathered her things, she heard a knock at her office door.
It was Stephen.
"Still here?" he asked, leaning casually against the doorframe.
"Just finishing up," Alicia replied, trying to keep her tone light.
He stepped inside, holding two coffee cups. "I figured you might need this."
Alicia hesitated before accepting the cup. "Thanks."
They sat in silence for a moment, the unspoken tension between them filling the room.
"I meant what I said earlier," Stephen said finally. "If you ever need support, I'm here. Not just as your boss, but as someone who cares about you."
Alicia looked down at her coffee, her emotions swirling. "Stephen, this isn't easy for me. I've spent years trying to move on from everything that happened."
"I know," Stephen said quietly. "And I don't expect you to forgive me overnight. But I'm willing to take things one step at a time, if you'll let me."
Alicia met his gaze, searching for any sign of insincerity. But all she saw was the boy she had once loved—the boy who had broken her heart but was now trying to make amends.
"I don't know if I can trust you," she admitted.
"Then let me prove that you can," Stephen said earnestly.
---
As the weeks went by, Alicia found herself slowly lowering her guard. Stephen was patient, never pushing her to talk about their past but always making an effort to be there for her.
One evening, he surprised her with an invitation to a charity gala hosted by Halcyon.
"I know these events aren't your thing," he said. "But I think it could be a good opportunity to network—and to take a break from work."
Alicia hesitated but eventually agreed. The prospect of dressing up and attending a formal event was daunting, but part of her was curious to see how Stephen would act outside the confines of the office.
The night of the gala, Alicia wore a simple but elegant black dress. Emma helped her with her hair and makeup, and even Daniel stopped by to offer his approval.
"You look stunning," he said with a grin.
Alicia rolled her eyes. "Flattery won't get you out of my sisterly scrutiny, Daniel."
He laughed. "Noted."
When Stephen arrived to pick her up, his eyes widened at the sight of her. "You look incredible," he said softly.
"Thank you," Alicia replied, her cheeks flushing.
At the gala, Stephen introduced her to several influential figures, but he never left her side. Alicia couldn't deny that he was attentive and considerate, making sure she felt comfortable in the unfamiliar setting.
As the evening progressed, they found themselves alone on a balcony overlooking the city.
"This reminds me of our prom night," Stephen said with a wistful smile.
Alicia laughed softly. "Except back then, we weren't surrounded by billionaires."
Stephen chuckled. "True. But some things haven't changed."
She looked at him curiously. "Like what?"
"Like how I feel about you," he said, his voice serious.
Alicia's breath caught, her heart racing. "Stephen…"
"I know it's too soon," he said quickly. "But I just needed you to know. You've always been the one for me, Alicia."
She looked away, her emotions a tangled mess. Part of her wanted to believe him, but another part was terrified of getting hurt again.
"I don't know if I can do this," she said finally.
"I'm not asking for an answer tonight," Stephen said gently. "Just… think about it."
As Stephen drove her home, the silence between them was filled with unspoken words. When they reached her apartment, he walked her to the door.
"Goodnight, Alicia," he said, his gaze lingering on her.
"Goodnight, Stephen," she replied, her voice barely above a whisper.
As she closed the door behind her, Alicia leaned against it, her mind racing. For the first time in years, she felt a flicker of hope—a hope that maybe, just maybe, love could be reclaimed.
---