She's not my type

Chapter Four_Weirdo

The morning sun cast a golden hue over the majestic structure that stood proudly in the heart of the city — the Hashiro Global Headquarters. Stefflon and Sean stood in awe before the skyscraper, their necks craning upward as they tried to take in its height. The mirrored glass façade sparkled in the sunlight, and the revolving doors at the entrance reflected an air of exclusivity and luxury that made them feel like intruders in another world.Inside, the lobby was grander than anything they had ever imagined. Polished marble floors stretched endlessly, massive chandeliers hung like frozen waterfalls from the ceiling, and sleek leather chairs lined the waiting area. The atmosphere buzzed with quiet efficiency. A well-dressed lady behind the reception desk greeted them kindly and, after confirming their purpose, directed them to the top floor — to Ren Hashiro’s office.As the elevator ascended, both Stefflon and Sean grew more nervous. The higher they went, the more out of place they felt. Everything about this building whispered power, wealth, and an intimidating kind of perfection.When they arrived at the top floor, they were met by a young woman with a warm smile."Hi, I’m Chloe, Mr. Hashiro’s secretary," she said. "You must be Stefflon and Sean. Mr. Hashiro is expecting you. Stefflon, you can go in first. I’ll let him know you’ve arrived."Stefflon nodded nervously and walked toward the large mahogany doors. As she stepped inside, her breath caught in her throat.The office was unlike anything she’d ever seen. It had both a luxurious sitting room setup and a sleek workspace. A floor-to-ceiling window offered a panoramic view of the city. Everything was pristine — glass, wood, and metal blended with elegance.For a moment, she stood frozen, overwhelmed by the beauty of the space. Then she saw him — a tall figure standing near the window, his hands in his pockets, eyes cast over the city.She greeted him softly, but he didn’t respond. She assumed he had heard her anyway.Then he spoke. "Stefflon."She quickly responded, snapping to attention. When he turned to face her, her heart nearly stopped.He was... heavenly.His sharp jawline, perfectly tousled hair, and piercing eyes seemed to see right through her. His gaze was so intense, it was almost unbearable — as if it could strip her bare. Her breath caught in her throat, and her thoughts scattered.She was so immersed in admiring him that she didn’t hear a word he said until he asked, "Did you understand what I just said?"She jolted back to reality, embarrassed.He raised an eyebrow, clearly puzzled by her behavior. "Are you always this... distracted?""I-I’m so sorry," she stammered.He waved it off, though his expression remained unreadable. "My secretary will be leaving in three months. Let me see your CV."She handed it over quickly, still flustered. He scanned it with swift precision."You’ll work hand-in-hand with Chloe until she leaves. I don’t have the time to start a full recruitment process when she’s gone. You start in a week. Use the time to prepare yourself."Before she could respond, Chloe walked in."Do you need anything, Mr. Hashiro?""Yes. Show her around the company.""Of course."Stefflon thanked him over and over, bowing slightly before she dashed out of the office.She grabbed Sean, nearly breathless. "I’m his secretary!"Chloe’s face shifted slightly, her smile faltering. Realizing her mistake, Stefflon corrected herself."I mean, Chloe is resigning soon, so he said he would hire me. For now, I’m assisting her."Chloe smiled again, but something in her eyes had changed. Stefflon noticed — and silently cursed her loose tongue.One week, she told herself.One week to become the kind of woman who belonged in Ren Hashiro’s world.---Chloe began leading Stefflon through the various wings of the building, showing her departments, conference rooms, and exclusive lounges. But she couldn’t help asking, over and over, "So... do you like Mr. Hashiro? I saw the way your eyes glittered when you walked in."Stefflon laughed awkwardly. "It’s just a talent I have. I react strongly to aesthetics."Chloe raised an eyebrow, visibly confused. "You’re weird."They turned a corner and reached an enclosed section surrounded by clear glass. Inside was the most breathtaking garden Stefflon had ever seen. It looked like something from a fairytale. Blossoming cherry trees arched over stone walkways, a small koi pond sparkled beneath a delicate wooden bridge, and butterflies danced around a fountain that trickled calmly in the center. Benches nestled under flower-draped pergolas, and the scent of jasmine lingered in the air like a whisper.Stefflon gasped. "I want to go in."Chloe blocked her path. "That’s Mr. Hashiro’s private garden. No one is allowed in. He doesn’t like trespassing.""Just a peek," Stefflon insisted.Chloe sighed, looked around, and then stepped aside. "Fine. But don’t say I didn’t warn you."Stefflon entered, enchanted. The garden felt like another world. She wandered through it slowly, her fingers brushing petals, her eyes soaking in every magical detail.Eventually, she sat on a wooden bench under a wisteria tree, completely lost in thought. Her dreams spiraled — of success, of beauty, of him.And then she fell asleep.She didn’t know how long she’d been out until she woke to a deep, thunderous voice."What do you think you’re doing here?"She opened her eyes to find Ren Hashiro standing over her, his eyes blazing.Her heart stopped. "I—I’m sorry, I didn’t mean to—""Are you possessed or something? You stare like someone under a spell.""No!" she blurted out. Her face turned red. She hated that word. People always thought she was strange — and she hated being reminded.He looked at her for a moment longer, unreadable, before stepping aside. "Get out."She stood up slowly and left the garden, trying to maintain her dignity.Chloe was waiting at the hallway entrance."You left me there," Stefflon snapped. "He nearly bit my head off."Chloe shrugged, unfazed. "I wanted to warn you. You’re not Mr. Hashiro’s type. So you might want to tone down the daydreaming, grow up girl."

Stefflon bit her lip, anger and embarrassment burning inside her.This place was a different world.And she wasn’t sure yet if she belonged in it.