Hidden Affections

Chapter 4: Unexpected Encounter

The new business branch of Maine’s uncle has opened. David is the manager here, while Aria is the Officer In Charge(OIC). Meanwhile, Maine is focused on the other branch because that’s where her uncle’s attention is directed, and she needs to work hard to prove herself worthy to him. The couple often meet at night.

Despite managing the new branch of their uncle, David puts in extra effort to gain his wife’s uncle’s approval because he knows he’s not fully accepted due to his humble background, even though they are already married.

During his management duties, David meets Aria. She may not be tall, but she’s smart, hardworking, funny, and always brings good vibes. They often spend time together because David is always eager to help whenever Aria doesn’t understand something that management gives her tasks.

"Hi sir, good morning. Can I ask you a question?" Aria said to David.

"Of course, Aria. What is it?" David replied.

"Well, sir..." Aria started, but her boss interrupted her.

"Sit here next to me, Aria, so I can explain it to you properly," David said.

Aria hesitated at first to sit next to David Maxwell because she felt shy around her boss. He had a strong build, was handsome, and always joking, which made her comfortable asking him questions compared to his wife, Maine, who was moody and expected her to understand things the first time they were explained. Unlike Maine, David explained things in detail.

"So, did you get it, Aria?" David asked after explaining the task to her.

"Yes, sir. Thank you very much. I'll go back to my desk now. Thank you again," Aria said.

"No, Aria, stay here for a while. Let's chat. I'm bored here with no one to talk to," David said.

"But sir..." Aria started.

"No buts, Aria," David insisted.

"I still have work to do, sir," Aria said.

"Leave it for now. You can do it tomorrow," David replied.

"But sir, I might get scolded," Aria said.

"Don't worry, Aria. I got you," David assured her.

Aria had no choice but to stay in her boss's office. They talked and laughed as if there was no end. During this time, David got to know Aria better as she shared her life story, and he shared his as well, making them more comfortable with each other.

"Sir, aren't you going home? It's getting late," Aria said.

"It's okay. No one will be looking for me," David replied.

"Ma'am Maine might be looking for you," Aria suggested.

"Don't worry about that. Even if I'm home, I'm not doing anything. Maine and I just sit around with our phones. I'm happier when I'm with you," David said.

"Sir...?" Aria stammered.

"It's true, Aria. I'm happier when I'm with you," David said.

Aria laughed loudly, "You might fall for me sir, that's dangerous."

"Honestly, you're not hard to love, Aria," David said seriously.

Aria was confused about how to react. She wondered if her boss was joking, but as she looked closely at his face, he seemed serious.

“Really, boss?” Aria asked.

“Yes, Aria,” David replied.

“So, does that mean you’re falling for me?” Aria added jokingly.

“I can’t help it, Aria. Every morning when I come here and you’re not around, I look for you. I can’t focus. You’re always on my mind. I want to see your smile and hear your laughter,” David said.

“Sir... ?” Aria stammered.

“Yes, Aria, I really am falling for you,” David said, as he touched Aria’s leg.

Aria was shocked when her boss did that. She was surprised when David touched her leg while confessing his feelings, but she couldn't bring herself to pull away. The truth was, she was falling for him too, but she couldn't admit it because she knew it wasn’t right.