Chapter 2: The Growing Attraction​

The dinner with Alexander had been a turning point in Emily's relationship with him. After that night, the air between them seemed charged with a new kind of energy. In the office, their interactions became more intimate, filled with lingering glances and subtle touches that sent shivers down Emily's spine.​

One morning, as Emily was bringing Alexander his morning coffee, she accidentally spilled a few drops on his desk. "Oh, I'm so sorry, Mr. Harrison!" she exclaimed, quickly reaching for a napkin to clean up the mess.​

Alexander looked up at her, a small smile playing on his lips. "It's just coffee, Emily. No need to panic." He took the napkin from her hand and helped her clean the desk. Their hands touched briefly, and Emily felt a jolt of electricity shoot through her body. She looked up at him, and for a moment, they were lost in each other's eyes.​

But just as quickly, Alexander pulled away, clearing his throat. "Thank you, Emily. That will be all for now."​

Emily nodded, feeling a little disappointed but also hopeful. She could tell that Alexander felt the same attraction, but something was holding him back.​

As the days passed, Emily continued to work closely with Alexander on various projects. They often found themselves alone in his office, late into the evening, poring over reports and brainstorming ideas. One such evening, as they were discussing a new marketing strategy for a product launch, Alexander suddenly leaned in closer to Emily.​

"I think your idea has a lot of potential, Emily," he said, his voice low and husky. "You have a unique perspective that I find... refreshing."​

Emily's heart was pounding so hard, she was sure Alexander could hear it. "Thank you, Mr. Harrison. I've been really enjoying working on this project with you."​

Alexander's eyes searched hers. "Please, call me Alexander when we're alone like this."​

Emily blushed. "Okay... Alexander."​

There was a long moment of silence, filled with unspoken words and pent - up emotions. Then, Alexander reached out and gently tucked a strand of hair behind Emily's ear. "You know, Emily, I've been trying to fight this feeling, but it's getting harder and harder."​

Emily's breath caught in her throat. "What feeling?"​

Alexander let out a sigh. "This... attraction between us. I know it's unprofessional, but I can't seem to help myself."​

Emily felt a rush of happiness. "I feel the same way, Alexander. I've been trying to hide it, but every time I'm with you, I..." Her voice trailed off.​

Before she could finish her sentence, Alexander leaned in and kissed her. It was a gentle, tender kiss at first, but as their passion ignited, it became more intense. Emily wrapped her arms around Alexander's neck, losing herself in the moment.​

But just as the kiss was deepening, Alexander pulled away abruptly. "I'm sorry, Emily. This was a mistake. We can't do this."​

Emily was stunned. "Why not? I thought... I thought you felt the same way."​

Alexander ran a hand through his hair, looking conflicted. "I do, Emily. But I'm your boss. If word gets out, it could ruin your career, and I can't let that happen."​

Emily felt a pang of sadness. "So, what? We're just going to ignore this?"​

Alexander looked at her with pain in his eyes. "For now, yes. It's the best thing for both of us."​

Despite Alexander's decision, the attraction between them only grew stronger. In the office, they tried to act as if nothing had happened, but it was becoming increasingly difficult. Emily found herself daydreaming about Alexander during meetings, and Alexander often caught himself stealing glances at Emily when he thought no one was looking.​

One weekend, Emily was invited to a company - sponsored charity event. To her surprise, Alexander was also there. The event was held in a luxurious ballroom, filled with the city's elite. As Emily mingled with the guests, she couldn't help but notice Alexander watching her from across the room.​

After a while, Alexander made his way over to her. "You look beautiful tonight, Emily," he said, his voice soft.​

"Thank you, Alexander. You don't look so bad yourself," Emily replied, smiling.​

They stood there for a moment, not knowing what to say. Then, Alexander took a deep breath. "Emily, I've been thinking a lot about what happened. And I've realized that I can't keep ignoring my feelings for you."​

Emily's heart skipped a beat. "What does that mean?"​

Alexander took her hand. "It means that I'm willing to take a risk. I know it won't be easy, but I want to be with you, Emily. If you'll have me."​

Emily looked into his eyes and saw the sincerity and love shining through. "Yes, Alexander. I want to be with you too."​

They shared a passionate kiss, not caring who saw them. At that moment, nothing else mattered except their love for each other. But little did they know, their new - found happiness was about to be tested by the harsh realities of the business world and the opinions of those around them.