CHAPTER FOURTY FOUR 44
CHARLES
“I want to learn and grow, maybe I can do that with you” I mumbled coldly.
“If you are still horny, then let’s sex chat, a video call will make it look quite real” He suggested.
A video call chimed in, waiting for me to switch to the ‘Accept’ icon.
But I rejected it.
“Nevermind Zane, we don't need to s*x chat or have a video call. I'm less aroused now, I'm better” I told him.
“Are you sure about that or you just wanna subside the pleasure”
“It's all gone, I'm alright. I will let you know when I want it” I said.
“Whatever you say my love, anything you wish. Should we talk about something else?” He asked.
“No, let’s call it a night”
“Are you mad at me? Oh! You feel awkward that I figured out you’re a virgin. I am sorry” He apologized again.
“No dear. There is nothing to be sorry about; virginity or disvirginity is not something to be ashamed about. We are still very cool. Actually, I feel sleepy right now” I responded.
“So we’ll talk again tomorrow. Good night and sweet dreams. I love you”
“I love you too Zane” Just when I hung up the call, a lovely goodnight message from him popped in which made me smile.
Zane is such a romantic and considerate boyfriend.
I yawned, a sudden fatigue welled me up, making me stagger wearily into my bedroom.
****
The following day, (At My Workplace)
This new job as an operating officer, is even easier because I have an assistant. I guess Finn was right about Evelyn and I being a great team and we work very well together. I handed over the rest of the work for Evelyn to finish it up while I piled up the files we’ve thoroughly checked, then I made my way to Finn’s office to submit them to him.
“Come on in” He permitted only after the first knock.
“Good day Mr Finn” I said, dropping the files on his table, while I turned to leave.
“Come have a cup of coffee with me” He proposed.
There’s no way I can just come into his office and leave without engaging in a explicit conversation with him.
Because I was thirsty at the moment, I couldn't turn him down.
I returned to him to quench my taste.
“Have a seat” He motioned affectionately.
I did and watched him make coffee on his table, right in front of me; for two. He passed a glass towards me and I thanked him before gulping it slowly.
“I prefer my coffee cold too” I enjoyed the chilled milky coffee.
“I’m glad you love it” He smiled.
I noticed he watched me while I gulped it all at once and dropped the glass.
“Both of us, having a cup of coffee together, all alone, it is like a coffee date” He stated and I almost belched out, instead I cleared my throat and hiccuped awkwardly.
“Th.. Thank you for the coffee” I managed to say then stood up to leave now.
“What do you think about us going on a date?” He proposed.
But before I could decline, he continued; “No, no, it's nothing. No strings attached okay? I've gotten over you, um.. although not totally but I just want us to have some time alone, away from work, I suggest a dinner date at a restaurant. We’ll get to chat, dine and laugh our heart out. It would be perfect! What do you think?”
“No, I am sorry Finn, I can’t..go out with you“ I turned him down firmly, my voice filled with conviction.
“Please” He pleaded, narrowing his eyes into mine, searching mine for no sign of hesitation.
I shook my head and look down, giving a little bow.
“I have to get back to work now, see you during the lunch break maybe and thanks for the coffee” I exited his office.
As I walked back to my desk, I couldn't help but feel a mix of emotions.
I hate to see him feel sober and disappointed, but accepting to go out with him is more like I'm leading him on again. It would only complicate things further.
****
Funny how Finn never avoid us; he was closer to our clique than anyone else, he gave us preferential treatment and I could smell obvious jealousy and rumors from other staffs.
During the recess period, he walked with us to the office cafe like we were equally in the same league, a stranger wouldn't know he is our CEO and I'm so certain that our colleagues cannot also infer that Finn intimacy with us is because he is interested in me.
“All bills on me” Finn announced when the waitress served our lunch.
“Oh great, thank you Finn” Evelyn applauded.
I turned to Finn and smiled at him. He always sits next to me, where else on rectangular table for four?
“Thank you Finn” Adam also appreciated, although in a murmur. I was surprised that he caused no trouble today.
“I’m glad you have finally welcomed me into your crew. Sometimes, I think I'm not supposed to be here, I should find a partner to eat with during the recess break” Finn said and I looked at him, our eyes met. I knew he was referring to me.
“Well, you’re welcome here, anytime, anyday maybe till you find that partner” Evelyn chuckled.
“I agree, you are.. always.. welcome here…with.. with us. We.. are not complaining” Adam stuttered, perhaps, Evelyn was pinching him hard underneath, so he could cooperate.
Finn’s phone buzzled, he looked at his screen and huffed. Then shook his head, before shoving his phone back into his pocket.
“Who was that?” I didn't know why I cared.
Well, he answered anyways; “Someone I'm probably meant to dine with once we click!”
“Huh!” I raised my brows.
“I employed an unserious personal assistant yesterday. He is supposed to resume today but he’s not here” Finn told us.
“What? Why?”
“I don't know. He has just notified me that he won't show up today and he will resume whenever he likes, can you just imagine that audacity? Do you think I'm being too linear?” His authority wavered for a moment.
“I think you should be gentle with him, give him another chance” I didn't know what exactly to say.
“Yeah, I agree with Rita; maybe he has a private reason or something” Evelyn said
“Damn him! I don't need a P.A. He is nonchalant, how then will he earn my trust? For instance, I increased your salaries and promoted you guys because you were devoted to your work but this guy called Charles, is not ready to work his hands out!”
“Is it the same guy that came here with your brother?” Adam asked and Finn nodded.
“The same guy that stared at me and said I look familiar to him or something?” I asked.
“Yeah, and wait a minute. Are you sure you don't know Charles?” Finn asked me again.
“I am not sure. I don't think we’ve met before, I'm surprised he knows me” I tried to recall if I have ever met Charles somewhere before.
“Oops! Perhaps he is your online boyfriend!” Evelyn blurted.
What???
********
To Be Continued