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I jump off his legs and straighten my skirt, making my way back to sit opposite him.
He hesitates before picking up the phone.
“Edward, talk to me.”
I heave a sigh of relief, grateful that nobody walked in on us. Not that I owe anyone an explanation, but I would rather not announce our relationship like that even if I wanted it to be out in the open.
“How many meetings do I have today?” Jayden asks as soon as he drops the call.
“Um…” I fiddle with my tablet, “Just one. The board meeting is at 2:00 PM. I have to finish a report on that as well.”
“Okay. Call Edward and have him give you the details of his project for review,” he replies.
“Okay.”
“Do I get to see you later tonight? Dinner?” he chips in as I attempt to leave.
“I have work to do tonight.”
“So do it at my place,” he urges. “I’ll cook.”
I laugh. “I could get used to that, you know.”
“You should get used to it,” he calls behind me as I walk out of his office.
As I stroll into the office, the usual buzz seems different today. Whispers seem to linger a bit longer, and glances are accompanied by knowing smiles, especially from Lydia and Claire, and Pamela is wearing an intense frown.
It doesn’t take me long to discern the change in the atmosphere–the news of my relationship with Jayden has evidently made its rounds.
I notice the subtle shifts in my colleagues’ interactions, the exchanged glances that hint at a newfound understanding, and the occasional nods that greet me as I pass by.
The air seems charged with curiosity and unspoken discussions, leaving me feeling exposed as if the walls hold echoes of conversations about my personal life.
My heart races as I hurry to my desk, feeling a mixture of vulnerability and curiosity.
How could Lydia do this to me?
The news of my relationship with Jayden, while not to be a secret forever, is not Lydia’s business to broadcast. I had hoped to maintain a professional boundary within the workplace, but now it seems the boundary has been blurred, if not erased.
I settle into my desk, feeling a bit self-conscious, wondering how my colleagues view me now. Perhaps they think I’m dating Jayden to climb up the professional ladder? Or would they understand the complexities of our connection beyond the confines of the office?
And what if Jayden fucks this up once again? I would either have to live with the shame of being one of his playthings in the eyes of everyone else or I would just have to quit.
As I hurry into the ladies’ room to collect my thoughts, I’m relieved to find a moment of solitude.
My brief respite is interrupted by the soft click of the door as Lydia joins in behind me.
There is a moment of strained silence as I wash my hands, stealing glances at Lydia’s reflection, searching for some hint of the impending conversation.
“Hey, Carissa,” Lydia finally speaks, her tone hesitant yet carrying an undertone of fear. “I wanted you to hear it from me first. Everyone knows about you and the boss.”
I pause, feeling a mixture of emotions–discomfort, frustration, and a tinge of vulnerability. I turn to face Lydia, my expression a blend of concern and inquiry.
“Yes, I can see that. But I’m curious, Lydia, how do they know?”
Lydia adverts her gaze momentarily, her features clouded by a mix of guilt and realization. “I might have mentioned it in a passing conversation with Claire. I didn't know she would spread it. I’m sorry, Carissa, I didn't mean for it to cause any trouble.”
I scoff. “I can’t believe you, Lydia. It was not your place at all. Yes, I’m dating Jayden. We are in love. Why can’t everybody mind their own business here?”
