Just as I was finalizing the numbers, the intercom buzzed. Isabella, Julian needs to see you in the office, Esther said.
Any idea what it's about? I asked. Esther shrugged. No clue, but he sounded serious. I gathered my thoughts and went to his office.
Isabella, have a seat, Julian said, his expression unreadable.
I sat, my mind racing with possibilities. What did he want to discuss.
Last night….he began, his voice low. I met his gaze, anticipation building. Was incredible, he finished. My cheeks flushed. Julian, we should focus on work, I reminded him.
I know but, I needed to acknowledge it. He leaned forward. Isabella, I want to explore this…us. My pulse quickened. I'm your employee, I countered.
His expression turned serious. I understand the implications, but I….. I can't stop myself.
I leaned back, relaxing slightly. Honestly? I have been thinking about it too, I admitted.
Good thoughts I hope? He asked, a hint of playfulness creeping in. I smiled. Mostly wondering how we'd make this work. Julian nodded. We'll figure it out, together.
Julian leaned back in his chair. We should do something low-key this weekend, he suggested. Like what? Dinner, movie, he replied.
I smiled. Sounds nice. What's your favorite cuisine? Italian, I replied. He nodded. I know a great place. Saturday? I nodded. Saturday works
As I left his office, Esther raised an eyebrow. Everything okay? I smiled. Just weekend plans. Her eyes sparkled. Spill girl, what is going on between you and the Boss?
I'll tell you everything after work. You promise? Yeah.
Days passed, and whispers spread.
Colleagues glanced at me, curiosity in their eyes. Isabella, what's going on with you and Boss? Emily from the HR asked.
I maintained a neutral smile. No comments Emily. People are saying things Isabella. What are they saying exactly? Julian is favoring Isabella, they are secretly dating.
That is what they are saying. You really need to come up with a solution before this gets out of hands.
One evening, as I packed up to leave, Julian appeared. Isabella, walk with me, he said. We strolled out of the office. Rumors are spreading, he stated. I know, I replied. We need to address this.
We'll address the rumors head-on, he said and I nodded understanding
The next morning, Julian called an impromptu meeting.
Team, I want to address the rumors, he began. Isabella and I are in a relationship. We understand the implications and will maintain professionalism.
The room fell silent. Esther smiled discreetly, Ryan nodded, accepting. Colleagues exchanged glances. Julian continued. Our work relationship won't change. Isabella role remains unchanged.
The meeting ended, reactions varied: surprise, curiosity, acceptance. I returned to my desk, feeling liberated.
Julian approached. You okay? I nodded. Relieved, I admitted. Julian smiled, me too.