Secretary with benefits

chapter 5

Monday arrived faster than Olivia anticipated. She was seated at her desk early, ready to tackle the day, when the office door opened, and Aiden strode in. He was impeccably dressed in a tailored dark gray suit, his usual air of authority only heightened after their meeting at Pierro’s. Their encounters outside the office had shifted something between them, creating an almost tangible tension she couldn’t ignore.

“Good morning, Olivia,” Aiden greeted, his gaze lingering on her a bit longer than usual.

“Good morning, Mr. Cole,” she replied, her voice steady, though her heart raced as she met his eyes.

Aiden hesitated, looking as though he wanted to say more. Instead, he simply nodded, his eyes holding an unreadable expression before he turned and disappeared into his office.

Olivia sighed and tried to focus on her tasks, yet her thoughts kept drifting back to the way Aiden’s gaze had softened each time he looked at her lately. She knew that maintaining boundaries was essential, but every stolen glance, every brief touch, only made it harder.

Just as she started working through emails, the intercom on her desk buzzed.

“Olivia, could you come into my office?”

“Yes, Mr. Cole,” she responded, trying to steady her nerves.

Inside his office, Aiden gestured for her to take a seat, his expression unreadable.

“I have an assignment for you,” he began, watching her closely. “One that requires a bit of travel. There’s an upcoming conference in Miami on Thursday, and I’d like you to accompany me. It’ll be an opportunity for you to meet several industry leaders and gain a deeper understanding of our partners.”

A trip. Alone. With Aiden. Olivia swallowed, maintaining her professionalism as her mind raced.

“Of course, I’d be happy to attend,” she replied, her voice steady.

“Good,” Aiden said, a hint of satisfaction in his voice. “We’ll be flying out Wednesday evening and returning Friday morning. Pack formal attire; there will be a few networking events.” His eyes held a spark of something unspoken, something that sent a thrill through her.

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Later That Evening

Olivia met up with Rachel after work, filling her friend in on an unexpected business trip over dinner.

“So let me get this straight,” Rachel said, giving Olivia an incredulous look. “Your gorgeous, intimidating boss, who may or may not be flirting with you, just invited you on an out-of-town trip? And you’re supposed to act like that’s totally normal?”

Olivia laughed, feeling her cheeks warm. “It’s just work, Rachel. He’s my boss. He’s been nothing but professional.”

“Professional?” Rachel arched a brow. “Liv, you’re telling me there’s no chance there’s… something more there? I mean, you’re practically glowing every time you talk about him.”

Olivia bit her lip, unsure how to answer. “Okay, maybe there’s a spark, but it’s complicated.”

Rachel grinned, leaning back. “If he makes a move, you have my full support.”

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Wednesday Evening – The Trip Begins

At the airport, Olivia spotted Aiden near the boarding gate, his posture relaxed yet exuding authority. She walked over, giving him a polite smile as he glanced up and gave her a rare, genuine smile.

“Right on time,” he said approvingly.

They boarded the private jet, where Olivia found herself marveling at the luxury surrounding her. As they took off, Aiden offered her a glass of champagne.

“To a successful trip,” he said, his eyes gleaming.

“To a successful trip,” she echoed, clinking her glass with his.

They shared a quiet moment as the city lights twinkled below. Aiden leaned back, his gaze resting on her with a subtle intensity that made her pulse quicken.

“Tell me, Olivia,” he began, his tone softer than usual, “what do you see yourself doing in five years?”

The question took her by surprise, and she paused, considering her answer. “I… I see myself advancing in my career, making a real difference. Maybe even managing my own department.”

Aiden nodded, clearly pleased. “Ambition suits you. I’ve noticed your determination. It’s one of the reasons I wanted you here.”

Olivia’s cheeks warmed at the unexpected compliment. “Thank you, Mr. Cole. That means a lot.”

“Please,” he said, his voice low, “call me Aiden.”

She met his gaze, feeling the air between them grow heavy with tension. It was in these quiet, vulnerable moments that the walls seemed to crumble, revealing sides of him she hadn’t seen before.

As the plane continued on its course, Olivia couldn’t help but feel that this trip would mark a turning point in their relationship. For better or for worse, something between them had shifted—and there was no going back.