Chapter 12 12 Chapter 12 - Dangerous Beginnings Monica's POVD I collapsed into my office chair, my knees weak and trembling. Somehow, I'd maintained my professional facade through that entire fiasco, but inside I was a mess. That woman, Vicky Murphy, was truly insufferable. Never did I imagine my day would take such a turn. When Mr. Lorenzo had wrapped his strong arm around my waist to prevent me from falling and pulled me against his firm chest, it caught me completely off guard. The unmistakable hardness of his arousal pressed against my back had certainly jolted me awake. But it was his hot breath against my ear as he whispered not to move away that sent a wave of heat coursing through my body, leaving me embarrassingly wet and throbbing in places I hadn't felt stir since that company dance. Now here I was, stunned that my incredibly handsome boss had been rock hard against "Monica, you're in serious trouble, I muttered to myself. I retrieved my phone and messaged Natalie, desperate to share this unexpected encounter. "Met my boss today," I texted simply. Her response was almost instantaneous: "Bet he grabbed you in the office!" I couldn't help smiling at her uncanny intuition. "He actually did grab me. I'll tell you all about it at dinner," I replied before tucking my phone away just as Irina entered my office. "Monica, I'm so sorry! That spoiled princess always causes chaos whenever she appears. I hope you didn't get into trouble with Mr. Lorenzo because of me," Irina said, her expression genuinely contrite. Irina, our executive secretary, commanded the desk directly facing the elevators, ensuring no one entered or left without her knowledge. At about thirty-five, she was strikingly attractive with her tall, slender frame, chestnut hair perpetually secured in a professional bun, and dark eyes magnified by black-framed glasses that enhanced her serious demeanor. My office was positioned to her right, connecting to my boss's domain. The opposite side mirrored this layout, with Mr. Torres's assistant's office leading to the VP's quarters. This entire floor belonged exclusively to the company's president and vice president, complete with amenities including a break room, kitchen, restrooms, two meeting rooms, a video conference room, and exclusive access to a stunning rooftop garden terrace. Nothing happened in this company without Irina knowing about it. "Don't worry about it, Irina! Mr. Lorenzo was livid, but his anger wasn't directed at us-it was all for that woman. From what I gathered, she's Mr. Eddie's daughter, correct?" "Yes, that's right, Monica. She's constantly lurking around here pursuing Mr. Lorenzo, but he can't stand her presence." "Has Mr. Eddie been with the Group long?" I inquired, curiosity getting the better of me. < 12 Chapter 12 - Dangerous Beginnings "Thirty years. He preceded even Mr. Lorenzo, starting as a financial assistant before climbing to director-a promotion granted by Mr. Lorenzo's father. His daughter and the boss have history going back to childhood, and she's relentlessly pursued him, always finding excuses to appear at the company. Her father continuously promotes her as perfect for Mr. Lorenzo, calling her his ideal match, Irina dropped her voice conspiratorially: "After Mr. Lorenzo's parents passed away, Mr. Eddie began spreading the narrative that both families had dreamed of their children marrying. But Mr. Morris becomes visibly irritated whenever it's mentioned." I offered Irina an understanding smile, acknowledging the awkwardness of the situation. "I completely understand. But please don't worry, Irina. Mr. Lorenzo wasn't upset with us. In fact, I doubt we'll face similar situations again since he's instructed security to bar that woman. from entering the building." Irina's eyes widened dramatically before her face broke into an enormous smile. As she headed back to her workstation, she exclaimed with evident relief: "Finally!" Just as I finished speaking, Paula appeared arm-in-arm with Darren, both sporting broad smiles and mischievous expressions. Darren immediately inquired: "No way, did Morris actually ban Vicky Murphy from the building?" His face radiated pure amusement as he struggled to contain his delight. I couldn't resist laughing as I nodded confirmation. Both erupted in hearty laughter, and when they finally composed themselves, Paula addressed me: "Monica, darling, I hear you've already encountered your boss. And in quite the unorthodox manner." Oh God, Darren is such a gossip-he's already shared everything with Paula. Despite my embarrassment causing my cheeks to flush, I managed a smile and replied: "Mr. Torres, have you no mercy? I thought I was going to be torn apart in that room today. I'm honestly not sure whether to laugh or cry, Paula." Darren regarded me with obvious enjoyment of the situation. "Monica, I seriously doubt my friend would ever allow that unpleasant woman to harm even a single strand of your beautiful hair," Darren remarked with a charming smile before turning to Paula. "Paula, why didn't you assign Jason to work with Mr. Grumpy and let me have this gorgeous Monica instead?" he asked with a playful pout that made me laugh-he truly was charming. "Because you're an incorrigible Casanova, dear. You flirt with every woman who crosses your path, and she wouldn't last two days here. Monica isn't like your typical conquests-I hope you respect that and maintain appropriate distance," Paula responded affectionately but with unmistakable warning. "The boss has already warned me she's off-limits, so I'll behave myself. But we can still be friends," he replied with a warm smile and playful wink. "But you really are beautiful, Monica- 12 Chapter 12-Dangerous Beginnings you'll make many women around here jealous." "Thank you, Mr. Torres, that's very kind, but I hope to avoid further complications," I responded with a polite smile. "Please, call me Darren. Seriously, consider me a trusted friend," he said with genuine sincerity. "Now, if you'll excuse me, I'm going to check on my friend after you fell into his lap. My face burned crimson as I watched him stride toward my boss's office, entering without knocking. Darren was truly delightful-kind, courteous, and refreshingly positive about life. He had that rare quality of genuinely charming others while offering authentic friendship and support. I felt relieved knowing working alongside him would be a pleasant experience. "So, Monica, what did you think of Morris? Paula asked, curiosity evident in her voice. "Oh, Paula, despite the incident that clearly infuriated him, he was quite courteous. I think we'll work well together." Complete lie! I was in serious trouble-that man was indecently attractive and magnetic, and even unintentionally had already awakened desires I'd long suppressed.. "I know that. I want to know what you thought of him as a man. He's gorgeous, isn't he?" Paula's smile widened as my cheeks burned hotter. "Ah, there's no use denying it-you were clearly impressed." "Yes, Paula, I wasn't expecting my boss to be so young and handsome. And remarkably, he has exactly the same eye color as Austin," I said, almost thinking aloud. "What do you mean?" Paula asked, intrigued. "Well, my son has violet-blue eyes, identical to Mr. Lorenzo's. They're quite stunning and extremely rare," I explained, meeting her gaze. "Yes, they certainly are. In all my years, I've only known Morris and his father to possess eyes of that particular shade. Now I'm curious to meet your son. Who did he inherit that unusual eye color from?" She seemed surprisingly interested. "He has his father's eyes, that deep, beautiful violet-blue. Oh, you should join us for dinner tonight! Natalie is eager to meet you, and my Austin is absolutely adorable," I suggested enthusiastically, already feeling a natural connection with her. "I'd love to! I'm excited to finally meet Austin and Natalie after hearing so much about them. I feel like I already know them. It's settled then!" She smiled warmly. "Now I'm going to check on Morris. This young man is like a son to me-I even changed his diapers," she added affectionately before entering my boss's office. I retrieved my phone to inform Natalie about Paula joining us for dinner. First, I noticed her message: "OMG! Girl, I'm dying of curiosity. I need all the details!" I smiled and confirmed I'd share everything later. My desk phone rang-my boss summoning me to his office. I grabbed my tablet, and upon 12 Chapter 12- Dangerous Beginnings entering, I froze. He was smiling broadly, a genuine smile that illuminated his eyes, making him impossibly handsome. I was definitely in trouble! He appeared even more breathtaking when he smiled! Noticing my reaction, his smile widened further-I suspected he already recognized how his smile destabilized me. He immediately said: "Miss Monica, come in and close the door. Join us to hear Darren's account of dealing with that insufferable woman." He gestured toward the empty chair facing his desk. I complied with his request. Darren was animated, enthusiastically reenacting how he'd escorted Vicky Murphy from the building, detailing her tantrum, foot-stomping, and threats of retribution. We all laughed heartily-Darren was quite the performer, perfectly mimicking Vicky Murphy's voice and mannerisms. When he finished his entertaining display, he turned serious: "But honestly, man, we need to exercise caution. That volatile woman swore she wouldn't rest until she drives your assistant out of here. Then addressing me directly, he warned, "Monica, remain vigilant, not just regarding Murphy but her father too. They're petty, vindictive people. Don't trust them." I was startled by his warning, but what truly shocked me was my boss's response: "Don't worry, my friend. From now on, I'm the only one permitted to touch Monica's behind!" he declared, his intense gaze fixed on me, the formality of "Miss" conspicuously absent. Instantly, I flushed with embarrassment, yet the way he said it while looking at me created a tightness within that left me aroused... again! Working with this man would demand exceptional self-control. Darren, completely devoid of propriety and never missing an opportunity for amusement, noticed my discomfort and guffawed: "Monica, I believe your behind is in jeopardy!" Morris, mischief dancing in his eyes, added: "Perhaps I should request some chamomile tea. He winked at me seductively. 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