Chapter 14 14 Chapter 14 - Hidden History Monica's POV I opened up to Paula about my past-how my son's father had dramatically changed my life, and how after that experience, I'd sworn off relationships completely. Paula smiled as she listened, but then her expression suddenly changed. "You sound exactly like Morris, she said with a knowing look. "He's closed himself off to love too. Years ago, he met someone special. They were together when he received the devastating news about his parents. When he tried to find her afterward, she had completely disappeared. He searched everywhere but couldn't locate her. He still hasn't recovered from that loss." "How did his parents die, Paula?" I asked, my curiosity piqued. Paula's eyes clouded with sorrow. "It was a helicopter crash. They were returning early from a party because Morris's father received urgent business information. Morris stayed behind with this girl, and his parents couldn't find him to say goodbye. They left a message with Darren's parents. Later at the same party, Morris learned about the accident. Her voice cracked. "He was never the same afterward. Now he just has meaningless flings-nothing serious, just one-night stands." "That explains his serious demeanor," I said softly. "How devastating that must have been "Absolutely crushing. He wasn't prepared to take over the company, but faced with the alternative-leaving it to Eddic, the financial director who worked closely with his father- Morris stepped up. Though he was only vice president at the time, with his father's guidance, he'd been learning the ropes. He refused to let strangers control his family's legacy" Paula sighed. "Eddie was furious, claiming Morris was just a privileged kid who would destroy the company. Their argument was explosive, but Morris kept Eddie on out of respect for his father's staff. When Eddie expected to be promoted to VP, Morris brought in Darren instead- they'd always been like brothers, and their families were close. It was his smartest decision. Together, they revitalized the company and expanded it beyond expectations. Darren and I are essentially Morris's only family now." Natalic and I sat stunned. Natalie's eyes glistened with tears. "How long ago was this?" she asked. "About three years ago. Morris and Darren are thirty-one now. They were remarkably young "And how long have you worked there?" Natalie pressed. "I've been with the Millers for thirty years. I changed Morris's diapers as a baby," Paula smiled at the memory. "I started as the president's secretary at twenty, freshly married. Two years later, I had twins. When they were one, my husband left me for another woman. I raised 14 Chapter 14- Hidden History my daughters alone, with tremendous support from Morris's parents. I soon became senior advisor to Mr. Lorenzo. After his death, I was scheduled to manage the Windsor branch, but couldn't bear leaving Morris alone. We agreed I'd stay until he had firm control of the company. Now that time has come." "I had no idea you had children, Paula," I said, feeling guilty for not knowing her better. "They live in Windsor now. They studied at Oxford and never returned to the States. They found partners there, married, and have given me three wonderful grandchildren." She proudly displayed photos on her phone. "That's why I'm moving-to be closer to them. But leaving Morris breaks my heart." "Family is everything, I remarked thoughtfully, a wave of homesickness washing over me as I thought of my parents. "Does Mr. Lorenzo have any other relatives?" "Only distant ones he rarely sees. Like his parents, Morris is an only child." Paula shifted topics. "But Monica, tell us about meeting your boss. Darren mentioned it was quite intense." Natalie raised an eyebrow, immediately intrigued. I recounted everything that happened, with Paula highlighting parts she'd witnessed. We shared stories and laughed heartily, especially when Natalie told us about her boss accidentally sending adult toys to his mother and religious items to his fling. Both women confronted him simultaneously at the office, and his mother refused to return the inappropriate gift. We nearly cried with laughter. Eventually, Paula departed, and as Natalie and I cleaned up, she pounced. "Come on, Monica. What's the real story that Paula doesn't know?" "What do you mean?" "Don't play innocent," Natalie said with a knowing look. "Your text said he grabbed you- there's obviously more to it than what you shared. Spill." I couldn't avoid it any longer. I confessed how my boss's touch had affected me, how my body had reacted when he held me. Natalie understood immediately that I was in troubl though she couldn't help laughing at my predicament. "Do you think your brother would really hire me back, Natalie?" I asked anxiously. "Absolutely! He said you'll always have a position waiting. And there's my dad's agency too- you'll never be unemployed. But why? Are you worried you'll get fired?" "I don't know. Something happens when he's near me," I admitted. "I felt this immediate, powerful attraction. I lose my composure, "I'm not following, Monica." "You know me, Natalie. I always weigh consequences, never act impulsively, always maintain control. But with him? I feel like I might snap. My body literally burns." 14 Chapter 14- Hidden History My friend laughed, placed her hand on my shoulder, and looked directly into my eyes. "Honey, that's called being horny." We erupted in laughter. Natalie always simplified everything, but I felt reassured knowing I had employment options if this position became untenable. "Oh! I almost forgot, Natalic exclaimed. "My mom recommended a nanny for emergencies. I've hired her already-hope that's okay. She'll collect Austin from daycare daily and stay until we return. I've arranged for her to bathe and feed him. She can work weekends too, including overnight if we have events. So she's watching Austin this Saturday for our night out. Don't worry-she used to be my nanny, she's super experienced, already met Austin, and they clicked immediately. You'll meet her tomorrow. I'm covering her salary. Her name is Kayla." "Natalie, you're a lifesaver! I was stressing about daycare pickup times. Having help with Austin will be fantastic. Thank you! But let me pay her." "No way! He's my godson, and I want my party buddy back. This is my treat." I knew arguing was pointless. I'd find another way to thank her later. came recommended by Natalie's mother gave me peace of mind-she'd *with Austin. Comment In "A Relationship Kept in The Dark" by CrushReel, the storyline unfolds as renowned photographer Jane finds herself drawn to the charismatic rookie model, Hector. 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