The next day, when Cindy arrived at work, she did what she always did—she reset herself.
No emotion.
No mistakes.
No attachments.
She repeated the words silently as she settled into her desk, arranging files and opening her laptop with practiced precision. Routine was her safety. As long as she stayed within it, she believed she could survive anything this office threw at her.
Yet, no matter how hard she tried to stay invisible, it felt as though Adrian was slowly, deliberately stepping closer.
That morning, his presence felt different—heavier, almost tangible. Cindy noticed it in the way the office seemed quieter than usual, in the way people moved with more caution, and most of all, in the strange tension sitting in her chest. She tried to convince herself it was nothing more than anxiety, but deep down, she knew something was shifting.
When Adrian called her into his office, Cindy straightened immediately and walked in with calm professionalism. She expected feedback, instructions, or perhaps another task meant to test her efficiency.
Instead, he surprised her.
"Cindy," Adrian said, his voice even as he reviewed documents on his desk. "I have a dinner meeting with a client on Sunday evening."
"Yes, sir," she replied attentively.
"This client is important," he continued. "I need to make a strong impression."
Cindy nodded, waiting.
"We'll be going to the mall together," Adrian added casually. "You'll help me select an outfit that represents both me and the company properly. You'll also choose an outfit for yourself. You'll be attending the meeting with me."
For a moment, Cindy forgot how to breathe.
"Me?" she asked before she could stop herself. "Sir… you mean me?"
"Yes, you," Adrian said, finally lifting his gaze to meet hers. His eyes were calm, unreadable. "You'll assist with documents during the meeting. You're my PA, and you need to represent us as well."
Her surprise slowly gave way to something else—interest. This wasn't just an invitation; it was exposure. She had always wanted to understand how major contracts were handled beyond office presentations. This was a learning opportunity she couldn't ignore.
"Okay, sir," she said carefully. "May I return to my office? I have some pending work to finish."
"Yes, you may," Adrian replied, already focused back on his documents.
Cindy left his office, unaware that the moment the door closed behind her, Adrian lifted his head and allowed himself a brief smile. He couldn't explain it, but her presence energized him. It was unsettling—and intriguing.
By lunchtime, Adrian realized he couldn't step away from his work. He called Cindy again, asking her to order food for him. When she entered his office to take his order, she listened attentively, pen moving quickly across her notepad.
Just as she turned to leave, his voice stopped her.
"How do you manage stress?"
The question caught her off guard.
It felt personal, but not inappropriate. Still, Cindy paused, choosing her words carefully.
"I manage stress by staying organized and focusing on priorities," she answered calmly. "When things get demanding, I break tasks down and handle them one step at a time. I've learned that staying calm and solution-focused helps me perform better, especially under pressure."
Adrian studied her quietly.
Her composure impressed him more than he expected. In that moment, he was certain—choosing her as his PA had been the right decision. His thoughts drifted briefly. If she had been assigned to the accounting department, she would have excelled there too.
"Well," he said finally, "that's good. Very professional. After lunch, we'll leave in thirty minutes. Get yours as well."
"Thank you, sir," Cindy replied, appreciation flickering across her face before she left.
They ate lunch and departed shortly after.
The moment they arrived at the mall, Cindy felt the weight of attention. Curious stares followed them as they walked side by side. To strangers, they looked like a couple—comfortable, coordinated, familiar. The realization made her uneasy.
Why are they looking at me like this? she wondered.
A warning echoed in her mind—Flora's voice: Getting close to the CEO should not be an option.
Cindy straightened her posture, mentally reinforcing her boundaries. I have to be extra professional. I can't afford rumors.
Adrian selected a tailored suit with Cindy's guidance, nodding as she explained why certain colors and cuts worked better for the occasion. When it was her turn, she chose a simple black short dress—elegant, modest, and professional.
When Adrian saw her, he froze.
For a few seconds—seconds he didn't intend to give—he simply stared. The dress fit her perfectly, accentuating her natural grace. Not only was she beautiful, but the confidence she carried unsettled him in ways he didn't want to acknowledge.
He cleared his throat, forcing himself back into control, and gave her a subtle thumbs-up.
"It's good," he said.
Adrian paid for both outfits, and they returned to the office. As soon as they walked in together, Cindy noticed the looks—lingering glances, whispered assumptions waiting to be formed.
But she didn't falter.
She walked back to her desk with her head held high, reminding herself of one thing:
She was professional.
And no amount of gossip would change that.