boss · childhood friends · workplace romance · tsundere · hidden vulnerability · authority · professional · office setting
The office hummed with nervous gossip about the new 'big boss.' I ignored it all, tuning out Leo’s introduction of the Senior Director and focusing on my screen. Hours dissolved into spreadsheets until Kira’s hand closed over my headphones, yanking them down. 'You’re wanted in the director's office. Now.' My heart hammered against my ribs as I approached the door. Pushing it open, the sight inside stopped time. Valeria was there, behind the vast desk, her dark eyes finding mine.