Beyond the nights

Chapter Three: Not again

The same morning after my eventful night at the high-end club and Ethan’s apartment, I groggily made my way to work. I could hardly recall how I got to Ethan's flat because my head was throbbing from the lingering effects of a bad hangover. I was in a state of mental confusion when I took the elevator to my workplace building.

As the elevator doors slid open, I stepped out into the bustling lobby of the Richard & Co., one of their numerous branches where I work. It was a place to be really proud of. My office gave me so much joy, especially knowing that Lucas did everything to make sure I worked in my dream office.

While heading towards my workstation, still recovering from the events of the previous night, I couldn't ignore the sudden flurry of activity and hushed discussions among my colleagues. Something was amiss.

I finally reached my desk, only to find out that the new CEO will be coming for an inspection today at our branch. I wondered why everyone was excited as I was still wrapping my head about earlier.

I still had the thought of a shirtless Ethan in my head and I could still perceive Ethan’s scent or was it my imagination? I had to drive myself to stop wandering off in fantasy land and return to my assignment.

Taking a minute to assemble my boldness, I approached Lura, the long-time receptionist at the company.

"Lura, do you know what's going on?" With a hint of concern in my voice.

Her sympathetic gaze revealed a mix of pity and uncertainty, she said to me.

"Jasmine, it seems Mr. Richard had made the sudden decision to hand over the company to his son. This unexpected news had just arrived from the headquarters, informing us that an inspection would take place later today.’’

My heart raced as I absorbed Lura's words. Mr. Richard, the esteemed founder and CEO of Richard & Co., made the momentous decision to pass the reins of the company to his son. This announcement created a significant impact, causing a ripple effect throughout the office and stirring a range of emotions among the employees.

As the morning unfolded, a tangible sense of tension permeated the workplace. Each individual was on high alert, meticulously attending to their workstations and ensuring that their appearance was impeccable, striving to make a lasting impression. It felt like we were preparing for an inspection by royalty.

Then, the moment arrived. A hushed murmur swept through the office as the grand double doors of our branch swung open. In walked Ethan Richard, the newly appointed CEO, flanked by a group of stern-looking executives.

Ethan radiated confidence, certainty, and authority as he entered the office. He wore a perfectly designed suit and exuded a powerful presence that was challenging to ignore. My heart started to beat faster as soon as I saw his face. I came to the realization that he was now more than just the club guy; he was also my new boss.

The room seemed to hold its breath as Ethan moved through the office, inspecting various departments and engaging in polite but brief conversations with employees. I was nervous and intrigued as I watched from my desk.

Our eyes briefly met as Ethan's gaze roamed the room. I couldn't help but blush as I thought back on our night together and how I had behaved. I hoped that he wouldn't recognize me.

Ethan finally made his way over to my workspace. I tried to concentrate on my computer screen while my heart was racing, acting as though I was deeply involved in my work. But I sensed that he was getting closer.

He greeted everyone with "good morning," speaking in a strong, commanding voice.

I met his stare as I looked up, my heart racing in my chest. "Good morning, Mr. Richard"

He nodded; his expression unreadable. "I'll be observing your department for a while. Carry on with your work."

With that, he moved on, leaving me in a state of heightened tension. I couldn't believe the twist of fate that had brought Ethan into my professional life. The challenge ahead was clear – I needed to prove myself in the eyes of my new boss, while grappling with the memories of our night together that lingered like an unspoken secret between us.

As the day unfolded, Ethan Richard, the newly appointed CEO, continued his inspection of our branch. The office was abuzz with anticipation and nervous energy. I couldn't get rid of the impression that my personal and professional lives had somehow been entangled as a result of this unplanned turn of events.

Ethan exuded strength and commanded respect, leaving a lasting impression on those he encountered. Although his interactions with employees were concise, they carried significant weight, revealing his sharp attention to detail.

Ethan was now my boss, and the evening we spent together was unforgettable. I did not fail to notice the irony.

As the morning gave way to afternoon, extreme silence in the office broke out due to an announcement that reverberated throughout the building. It was Ethan, addressing the employees.

He said with power in his voice, "I admire your hard work and dedication to this organization. "I've made the decision to use this branch as my permanent workplace. I think that for our business to succeed, we must closely collaborate with the workers at the ground level.

Surprise and excitement-filled gasps echoed across the space. Ethan Richard, the CEO, was going to be a regular presence in our branch. Everyone was excited and nervous at the same time because of the unexpected turn of events.

‘’I demand the highest levels of professionalism and competence from every one of you, Ethan continued. We shall grow this branch together to unprecedented heights.’’

He looked around the room as he talked, and for a brief instant, our eyes met once more. I couldn't help but experience a spike in anxiety. The night we had shared suddenly felt like a distant memory, overshadowed by the reality of the professional world we now shared. Deep down I knew his decision was just to frustrate me.

Ethan's announcement marked a new chapter for our branch, one filled with uncertainty and change. I knew that I had to navigate this unfamiliar territory with grace and determination, all while keeping the secrets of our shared past hidden in the shadows.

I felt so choked up and I knew I needed to speak to Lucas. I picked up my phone, tried to text him, asking if we could meet up, and suddenly a message dropped onto my phone and it was from Marcus.