My Beloved Boss (The Short Story)

8

Kyra Lewis:

When he invited me to lunch, I was hesitant to accept. After the accident and the horrible things Alex said to me, I feel insecure in the presence of any man. However, beside Matteo, that insecurity turns into a mix of nervousness and butterflies in my stomach, but never doubt in myself.

Now, I'm in a car, next to Matteo, on our way to the restaurant. I can't help admiring how handsome he is. Dressed in a black three-piece suit, his posture is relaxed as he drives, one hand firmly on the steering wheel and the other resting on his thigh. I wished that hand was on my leg; his hands are large with veins that stand out with each movement.

— You're drooling — he commented, a challenging smile on his lips.

— I'm not — I replied, running a hand over my face to be sure.

He smiled again and looked at me when we stopped at a traffic light. It was in this very spot that I had the accident, and tension began to take hold of me. Matteo noticed immediately and, in a gentle gesture, took my hand.

— Are you okay? — he asked, his voice smooth as a balm.

— This is the place where I had the accident — I said, embarrassed.

— If I had known, I would have chosen another route. — He stroked my hand, conveying calm.

— No, it's fine. I think it's time for me to face my fears — I declared, trying to sound more confident.

— That's the spirit. And remember, I'll always be here to help you — he said, and I smiled, squeezing his hand. We drove the rest of the way hand in hand, and I felt incredibly safe.

☆

We arrived at the restaurant, where Matteo requested a secluded table for more privacy. The table, intimate and cozy, was for two, and he sat beside me, creating a space that felt just ours.

— Have you decided what you'll have? — asked the waiter, jotting down notes.

— I'll have "Penne with béchamel sauce and vegetables" — I chose.

— I'll have the same — said Matteo, watching me intently.

— Your orders will be ready in a few minutes — the waiter assured as he left.

— Tell me a bit about yourself — Matteo asked, breaking the silence.

— I don't have much to say — I replied, a bit shy.

— I'm sure whatever you say will be interesting — he said, encouraging me to open up.

— I'm 19 years old, Scottish. I was born in Scotland, but when I was a month old, we moved to Brazil. My father is Scottish, and my mother is Irish. I have two brothers, Alysson and Pietro, who were born here. I've never worked, but now I'm having the opportunity to model thanks to you.

— And you, Mr. Rossi? Tell me a bit about your life — I proposed, curious.

— Well, I'm 22 years old, Italian, and I own several agencies around the world. I have no siblings and my parents live in Italy — he replied with a determined look.

— Wow, you're so young and already own multiple agencies.

— I started working very early — he said, with a sparkle in his eyes.

Our eyes met, and time seemed to stop. Matteo reached for my face, brushing away a strand of hair, and just as he leaned in to kiss me, we were abruptly interrupted by the waiter. He sighed in frustration, and I couldn't hold back a smile.

We ate amidst conversations and laughter, the atmosphere light and pleasant. After we finished, Matteo paid the bill, and we stood up. He graciously offered me a ride, and I accepted with gratitude. The ride back was enjoyable, filled with amusing conversations.

— The lady has been delivered — he said when we reached my destination.

— Thank you, sir — I responded, with a shy smile.

Then, in a smooth motion, he leaned in and held the back of my neck, sealing our lips in a kiss that was both calm and intense. I instantly reciprocated, feeling the electricity course through my body.

— Now no one interrupted us — he smiled, with a sparkle in his eyes.

— I need to go. Thanks for the lunch, and let me know when you decide the photo shoot date — I requested, knowing I had to walk away but reluctant to do so.

— Alright — he replied, and I quickly got out of the car, running home, my heart racing and mind a whirlwind of feelings.