CHAPTER 4
1029 Words
(ADELA’S POV)
The uber I was in pulled up right in front of a massive, sleek building. Everything around me was expensive minimalism. Glass, Steel, and the right amounts of plants with some colorful flowers here and there for a pop of color.
As I approached the entrance to the HQ building where gua office was, I kept thinking about Alan’s text. Not only was he involved and informed, he wasn't hiding it either.
We hadn't gotten closure on our relationship since I left the apartment with April abruptly. But we didn't need it. He had been my enemy all along.
I walked into the entrance and headed straight for the receptionist’s elegantly designed station right in the center of the ground floor. She took notice of me immediately.
“Hi. Welcome. Mr Oleg is expecting you. This way, please.” She was professional and polite.
This was smooth and personal already. I guess he really was intentional about offering me this job.
She led me to the elevator. And instructed me on how to get to his office.
“Top floor. 30th. I would come with you, except I can't leave my station.”
“No problem, thank you.” I responded and pushed the button.
As I neared the top floor, I ran my hand over my skirt and checked myself properly. My heart started to pump faster, as per usual when Nikolai was involved. Something about this pattern, and my acceptance of it, became incredibly personal.
The elevator door opened directly into his office. The 30th floor was designed only for his office space. No hallways or other rooms.
“Adela.” He called in his deep, warm voice. His voice boomed and sent low vibrations through the room.
“Welcome. You're on time. That's a plus for you.”
I smiled a little and approached his table. I hoped for his small bits of softness to ease my nervousness, the ones you only saw when you paid close attention, just to assure me everything was fine. I paid attention throughout my interview for it.
He seemed a lot colder and closed off. I assumed it was because this was strictly work… or was it because he had caught me snooping around?
“What PR Strategy would you implement if..”
“What's your crisis management method when..”
One after the other he asked me questions and I answered as he assessed. I remained composed and answered as best as I could. Then, I noticed he began to get slightly personal.
“Why leave your old company?” He asked.
“I was in search of a higher quality job, better environment and better pay for the qualifications I have.”
He seemed to squint a little at my response, as if in slight doubt.
He didn't speak for the next few minutes as he typed away on his computer. My eyes scanned the room and I noticed a portrait on the wall close to the shelf. An old slavic man. He looked like Nikolai. Was that his father? Instantly I remembered my recent suspicions. Alan. Nikolai. The Krov Household. Their involvement with my father.
“You start tomorrow.”
“Oh! Really?” I was quite shocked at how sudden it was.
“Yes. Your position as HOD comes with a penthouse apartment and a car. The company pays your rent and utilities.”
“This is perfect! Thank you!”
“One more thing. You must never snoop around restricted areas. Including my office.”
I knew he was talking about my little adventure last night.
“Yes.. of course.” I replied.
For a few seconds, neither of us spoke. Nikolai glanced back down, but I observed the way he seemed distracted. Like his mind was elsewhere.. Like it was on me.
“You should head home. HR will contact you with the details.”
I nodded and got up to leave. I tried to act normal despite the warmth blooming in my chest. This was all so perfect yet so insane. Two weeks ago I barely knew he existed, now he was the center of almost every thought in my head.
As I approached the elevator, I heard him stand from his chair.
“Adela.”
I turned around to face him. He walked towards me this time, stopping just at a short distance. He smelled expensive and clean. It messed with my ability to think straight.
“You're qualified for this position.” He said softly.
“Don't let anyone make you think otherwise.”
The sincerity in his voice caught me off guard. Because for the first time all day, he didn't sound cold or professional.
“Thank you.” I said and swallowed nervously. His eyes lingered on me for a moment too long before I turned to walk into the elevator.
I could still feel his gaze on me as the doors closed.
My cheeks warmed out of embarrassment as the doors closed between us. What was wrong with me?
I had spent years on survival, work and April. Although I’ve always yearned and been open to love, I didn't know so much about men or romantic distractions. I never saw myself falling for an emotionally unavailable CEO. Yet, every interaction with Nikolai left me overthinking for hours afterwards.
The ride down felt unreal. Everything about this day did.
The job. The apartment. Nikolai.
By the time I got outside of the building, my mind was already racing ahead to tomorrow. I had to get home immediately to begin packing and break the new to April so she could pack up too.
Working under him everyday began to feel both exciting and nerve wrecking.
I was so distracted by all the thoughts racing through my head that I almost walked past the white SUV parked across the street. Almost, until I spotted a familiar figure leaning on it.
Alan. My steps slowed down almost immediately. He stared at me, his expression was unreadable under the far shades he was wearing.
Then very slowly.. He smiled.
It horrified me internally. That smile terrified me more than his anger.
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