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The conversation shifted again, this time focusing on Austin's latest hobby–woodworking. He excitedly described the intricate details of the coffee table he was crafting, his enthusiasm infectious.
"Man, I can't wait to see the finished piece," Hugo said, clapping Austin on the back. "Your place is going to look so damn cool."
"Thanks! I'm really enjoying the whole process," Austin replied, grinning broadly.
I couldn't help but wonder whether landing the love of your life just meant you had time and space to do other things. Like Austin has Serena now, and he's into fucking woodworking. Who would have thought?
There's so much I still want to do professionally. Would attaching myself to someone, even if it was the beautiful Calla, be the end of my professional interests? I know it's not great to spend a ton of time at the office when you have a significant other. But, on the other hand, just being at home would mean I would likely take up a hobby.
I am making no sense whatsoever now. I dropped my head in utter confusion of the thoughts – the messed up, random thoughts – that were swirling in my head.
And despite the engaging chatter around me, my thoughts stubbornly returned to Calla. Her captivating smile, the way her hair framed her face, her quick wit; they all haunted me like a siren's song. I knew I shouldn't let my feelings for her grow unchecked, but it was becoming increasingly difficult to suppress them. I enjoyed spending time with you. Hell, I wanted to spend time with her.
"Shit, what am I doing?" I wondered internally, feeling the weight of my own desires bearing down on me. There was no denying it any longer; I had fallen for Calla, and the thought both thrilled and terrified me.
As the evening wore on, our laughter and conversation filled Austin's living room. In that moment, surrounded by the people I loved, I made a silent promise to myself: I would find a way to balance my work and personal life, and I would combine them in a way where I wouldn't be afraid of admitting it to everyone and anyone.
"Here goes nothing," I thought, steeling myself for the uncertain path ahead. With a deep breath, I decided to just invite her to go with me. I didn't have to think this was all or nothing. Baby steps. I could control the narrative, no problem.
Chapter 14
Calla
Iglanced at the clock and realized it was nearly lunchtime. Dominic had been so engrossed in his work that he probably hadn't even noticed the time. I decided to take the initiative and order lunch for both of us, hoping to impress him with my thoughtfulness. After a quick search on my phone, I found a nearby restaurant with great reviews and placed an order for two sandwiches; a turkey club for me and a roast beef with horseradish for him. I remembered he mentioned it was his favorite during one of our previous conversations.
"Hey, Dominic," I called out as I approached his office, "I took the liberty of ordering lunch for us. It should be here shortly."
He looked up from his desk, surprise flickering across his face, before a warm smile replaced it. "That's very thoughtful of you, Calla. Thank you."
When the food arrived, we cleared a space on his desk and laid out our meals. There was a comfortable camaraderie between us as we caught up on work-related matters, discussing upcoming meetings and projects. The professionalism of our conversation contrasted against the relaxed vibe of sharing a meal together, creating an interesting dynamic.
"This sandwich is amazing," Dominic said as he took another bite, clearly impressed by my choice. "You have good taste, Calla."
"Thank you," I replied with a smile, feeling a sense of pride at having pleased him. "I remember you mentioning your love for roast beef sandwiches with horseradish, so when I saw it on the menu, I knew it was perfect."
"Very observant," he commented, his eyes sparkling with appreciation. "It's nice to know that someone pays attention to the little things."
As we continued eating, we kept the conversation mostly centered around work. This lunch was meant to catch up on professional matters, after all. However, as we discussed the upcoming board meeting and our thoughts on potential marketing strategies, I couldn't help but notice the way his eyes lit up when he spoke passionately about his career. It was obvious that Dominic was truly dedicated to his work, and it made me admire him even more.
"Alright," he said as he finished the last bite of his sandwich, "we should probably get back to it. But this was a nice break, Calla. Thank you for thinking of me."
"Of course," I replied, feeling a warmth spread through me at his gratitude. "It's always good to take a breather and enjoy some good food."
As we cleaned up the remnants of our lunch, I couldn't help but feel close to Dominic. Sure, we had incredibly hot sex, but in the end, you need to connect on a soul level to make a relationship really work. I could tell he was a little conflicted in the office, like he had to be professional and didn't want to acknowledge what we shared. Almost like it was a secret.
But I understood it. I mean, I admired the way he took utmost pride in his work. Hell, in everything he did. Yes, he did have trouble with showing his emotions, but if what I got to see was anything to go by, I was ok with the intense glimpses I got to have behind closed doors. When I put all the pieces together, I liked what I saw.
The moment we finished cleaning up, Dominic leaned against his desk and crossed his arms, studying me with a hint of curiosity. "So, we've talked about work, and had some incredible moments together, but I realize I still don't know much about you, Calla," he said, his tone gentle yet probing.
"Uh, what do you want to know?" I asked, shifting my weight from one foot to the other, feeling suddenly exposed under his gaze.
"Anything you're willing to share," he replied, his eyes never leaving mine.
"Alright, um..." I hesitated, trying to think of something innocuous to tell him. I realized that I wasn't really an open book either. I wasn't one to open up easily, especially not to someone as... well, as incredible as Dominic seemed to be. My guarded nature was like a shield I had built around myself over time, and it wasn't easy for me to lower it.
"Favorite movie," he suggested, sensing my reluctance. "It's a simple question, but it can reveal a lot about a person."
"Okay, that's not too bad," I said with a small smile, thankful for the less personal topic. "I guess my favorite movie would have to be... The Princess Bride."
