Besotted

When you feel alone or depressed, do not give up. There is a person who will be standing behind you always. All you need is to turn back and hug that person.

The beeping of my alarm snapped me out of my slumber, and I groaned in annoyance, switching it off. I fell back on my bed, trying to get rid of the sleep that threatened to swallow me, but I couldn't fight against it anymore, so I gave up and began to doze off back to sleep. Thank God my mobile began to beep. This time I snapped out of sleep, swearing loudly, and turned off the alarm on my mobile.

This is my daily habit. I would go back to sleep again if I didn't use another source to wake up. I checked the time to find it already past 5 O'clock in the morning. I tied my long wavy brown hair into a messy bun, got up from bed, made it neatly, then went into the bathroom.

I did my business, bathing, brushing my teeth, and came out of the bathroom only wearing a towel.

Today is a big day. I was joining the most prestigious Private Bank in New York. I had been informed that starting today, I was the new personal secretary to the CEO himself. I wonder who he is...nice or a jerk? Just the thought of my new adventure got me excited.

Quickly getting ready for my first day, I did my makeup. I applied eyeliner and mascara, which made my brown eyes pop. I put on pink lipstick and tied my hair into a neat ponytail.

I chose to wear a black pencil skirt, matched it with a pink blouse, and wore a black blazer to give myself a professional look. Sliding into my black stilettos, I put on my black-rimmed glasses, grabbed my important files and handbag, then made my way towards my kitchen.

I placed my things on the table and was just about to enter the kitchen when my eyes fell on the clock hanging above the TV. It was already 8 in the morning, and I had to be at the office before 8:30.

"Oh shit!" I shouted. Clutching my things, I ran out of my apartment, locked it, and tucked the key under my mat. I hurried towards the elevator and left the building in a rush, quickly greeting the people I knew in the building.

Hiring a taxi, I finally reached my destination right at eight-thirty.

"God! I'm totally late. Please help me," I mentally prayed to the almighty and went into the building, which was named " Theller International's."

I went directly towards the lady at the counter and gave her my joining letter. The sweet lady, Anabelle, helped me with my schedule, then gave me the directions towards my boss's room.

I heard that my boss was the CEO of the bank and according to sources he is really young. I even heard that he keeps a low profile, and when I searched the net, I seriously didn't get any pictures of him except some photos where his face was not clearly visible.

I took the elevator and punched the 38th button and waited patiently to reach my floor.

The elevator ping made me jump out of the elevator, and I hurried towards another lady at a counter and asked her about my boss's office. The lady professionally guided me towards my boss's room and left as soon as we reached a wooden door.

I inhaled deeply and composed myself. I checked my attire for the last time and mentally prepared an excuse for being late on my first day. I bit down on my lips and knocked on the door.

I was confused when I didn't get a response. I knocked on the door again and surprisingly found the door open. Going against my instincts and out of curiosity, I entered the room.

It was a big room with a mahogany table, bookshelves, some expensive pictures hanging on the wall, a computer, and a couch. There was a big glass window that showed the view of the city.

I was totally awed to see the beautiful professional room. There were two doors. I guessed one was a bathroom, and again, out of curiosity, I knocked on the wooden door only to find no response. Clicking my tongue in annoyance, I turned the knob slowly, and to my absolute horror, there stood two humans eating each other's face wildly.

I mean kissing.

Before I could do anything, I gasped, and the two snapped out of their little intimate conversation. The girl had black hair, was tall and slim. She wore high heels and a red body-con mid-thigh dress.

The other person was, of course, a man. To be precise, an absolutely gorgeous man. Words couldn't describe how stunning he looked wearing a Grey Armani Business suit. He stood tall, around 6'2", and had beautiful green eyes, which could captivate anyone for hours. But the scariest thing was his aura. He had this dark "Do not mess with me" attitude that did reckless things to my body. I shivered under his glaring green eyes, which were now staring at me.

The girl shot me a dirty look, clutched her bag, and stomped past me out of the door, pushing my shoulder in the process. I balanced myself and adjusted my dress.

"Who are you?" The man spoke with a husky yet deadly voice.

"I'm Sangavi Carter, and I'm here for the job," I replied, trying not to stutter and make a fool out of myself on the first day. He was really intimidating, and I squirmed under his intense glare.

He adjusted his suit and buttoned up the few buttons of his inner shirt, then glared at me.

"Well, welcome, Miss Carter. I'm your boss and the CEO of this bank, Caleb Theller," he said casually and walked towards me.

Every step he took, I took one back. I felt so small as he towered over me. My chest began to rise and fall rapidly.

What was happening?

"Shall we start now, Miss Carter?" He said as he stopped a few inches in front of me. I furrowed my eyebrows in confusion.

"Start what, Sir?" I asked, and to my disbelief, he smirked evilly, his eyes glinting mischievously.

"Oh, it's nothing. Only with your punishment for being late on your first Day Miss Carter."

My eyes widened, and I mentally punched myself on my face.

Oh, what have I gotten myself into?

***************************

When your brain is tired, you are tired. Make yourself a cup of coffee and find a quiet room, close the door, stand near the window and play your fave song. You will feel refreshed.

What a day.

A tremendous day of my life which I'm sure I can never forget.

First of all, I was late for my first day of work. Second, I missed my breakfast, and now it's past twelve, and I still haven't eaten. The third one is the most embarrassing—I walked in on my boss having a steamy make-out session with a girl. I wanted the ground to open up and swallow me whole. I have never been so humiliated, especially in front of someone that resembles a Greek god.

Shit!

However, when Mr. Theller stated that he would punish me, I took that just as a phrase and didn't care. True to his word, he did punish me; my punishment was to work the whole day without a break.

I mean, what is this?

Some school?

I agree that I was late, but I didn't do that intentionally. Thanks to my so-called boss, my stomach was roaring like a hungry lion.

He told me to go to the office storeroom and arrange every file alphabetically. I had been organizing the files since the beginning of the day, and I finally finished.

Well, though, it was hard and tiring. I somehow managed to do my work perfectly.

I don't know how the boss expects me to do all of this hard work by myself with no break! Does he not have a heart to feel sympathy for me? Well, judging by his cruel ways, I doubt he even knows what emotions are.

Closing the storeroom door behind me, I made my way towards my cubicle. Finally, I could take a rest. My legs and shoulders are aching so badly. That's the only good part here. I got my own cubicle though it was unfortunately next to Mr. Theller's room. Yay! Lucky me, I get to hear all the sounds of pleasure coming from next door. Just great!

I was just about to enter my cubicle when a voice stopped me.

"Is your work over, Miss Carter?" Mr. Theller asked, crossing his hands over his chest and raising an eyebrow.

I faced him with confidence and said, "Yes, sir. The work you gave me is done."

He rubbed his chin and looked impressed. "So early?" he muttered, but I heard him.

"Yes, sir. So, what do I do next?" I asked, and he stared at me as if I have grown two horns on my head.

He hasn't seen how stubborn and determined I can get. I guess he will just have to wait and see, huh?

"Interesting. Very interesting," he said and smirked.

I raised an eyebrow at his weird expression and waited for him to continue. The smirk was beginning to get very irritating, and I so badly want to wipe it off. The temptation was so strong, but I couldn't risk my job. I needed this job, so I had to bear the stupidity regardless of how much Caleb annoyed the hell out of me.

"Book seats for five people in a good Italian restaurant and take your things with you. You are coming with me," he said and turned around to leave.

I clenched my jaw and adjusted my glasses. Nevertheless, I called an excellent Italian restaurant, my favorite one, just like the bastard asked. Since I was choosing, I might as well give myself a treat. I mean, I worked so hard, so I deserve some reward, and that jerk is taking me with him. Only God knows why he wants to string me along with him. STUPID ASSHOLE. He was so infuriating. I had no idea how I would cope with him. A teeny tiny part of me was attracted to him, but no way in hell would I admit that aloud to anyone. He was a player, and I don't need drama in my life at the moment. I have enough of that already. I don't need anymore.

I took my handbag and got out of my cubicle. I found Caleb waiting near the elevator. I went towards him and stood behind him, waiting for the elevator. He turned around to watch me with those intense green eyes, his signature smirk plastered on his face. I rolled my eyes and looked away before I did something stupid like slap him.

What's up with that smirk?

As soon as the elevator door opened, he stepped in. But he stopped me as I tried to enter. "What are you doing, Ms. Carter? Why are you wasting your time standing here? You will be late, and I hate people who don't respect time," he said, confusing me.

What does he mean now?

I was just about to open my mouth when I watched as the elevator door closed before me, and then it strikes me.

"Shit! That jerk wants me to take the stairs instead of the elevator," I muttered, irritated. I had no idea why he sought pleasure in seeing me in pain. It made me sick and angry. BASTARD!

"Fine, Mr. Theller. Game on," I said, determined, and ran to take the stairs. If he wants to play, fine. Two can play at that game, mister.

I took off my stilettos and held them in my hands. Taking a deep breath, I muttered, "Let's do it, Sang," and dashed down the stairs.

I kept running down the stairs holding the railing for support, but we were on the 38th floor, and it was really difficult. I began panting when I reached the 20th floor. I stopped for a second and adjusted my glasses before running down again.

Finally, when I reached the ground floor, I was in a terrible state. I was panting hard, and beads of sweat formed on my forehead. I waited for some minutes to get my breath. I put my stilettos back on, composed myself, and walked out of the building only to find Mr. Theller standing beside the road, talking on the phone with his back to me.

I slowly made my way towards him and waited for him to end his conversation.

He turned his head and looked at me, then went back to his phone. I stood there patiently, waiting for him to finish with his conversation.

Soon a limo pulled up on the road, and the driver held the door open for us. Only then did Mr. Theller hang up the phone and turn to me with an eyebrow raised.

"What is the name of the restaurant where you booked our reservations, Ms. Carter?" he asked.

"It's The Papa's Rouge," I replied.

"Oh, that's quite far. So, what are you still doing here, Ms. Carter?" he asked, and my heart began to race, thinking about all the possible answers.

"If you keep standing there, you will be late, and what did I say about being late?" He gave me a smug look and got into the limo, closing the door behind him while I stood there gawking at him.

"If he wasn't going to take me with him, then he should have told me earlier," I thought to myself and fisted my palms into balls. I hope he is having fun taunting me cause I'm sure as hell not. "His time will come, don't worry, Sang," I chanted the mantra, hoping to calm me down.

I watched as the limo drove away, leaving me there.

"Fine, Mr. Theller. Fine," I muttered and began to look for a taxi. After waiting for five minutes, a taxi finally pulled up, and I dashed in, giving the address to the driver.

I looked at my watch and saw that I only had five minutes to get there. The restaurant was still quite a distance away. We were stuck in traffic for fifteen minutes, and I started to worry.

Finally, after fifteen minutes we reached the restaurant. I paid the driver and rushed in. The manager guided me towards a table, and Mr. Theller was sitting with two men.

I scowled at him but nevertheless plastered a fake smile on my face and went towards them. As soon as I reached them, they turned their heads to look at me.

"I'm really sorry for being late, Mr. Theller," I said, and he glared at me while the other two men smiled, nodding their heads.

I took a seat next to Mr. Theller, calming down a bit.

"You are late," Mr. Theller whispered next to me, and I couldn't help but feel irritated. It was his fault, so why the fuck is he saying that?

"If only you had taken me with you, I wouldn't have been this late," I thought to myself. Clenching my jaws, I whispered back, "Sorry sir, it was the traffic."

"Who is this lovely lady?" One of the men asked as he looked me up and down, his eyes lingering for a bit longer than necessary. I smiled at him, feeling a bit shy. All these men were very hot. They looked like models, and I felt like nothing compared to them.

"She is my secretary," Mr. Theller introduced me to them while glaring at me. Ignoring him, I gave my best smile to the clients. It wasn't my fault they were staring at me.

The two men were dressed in expensive business suits and were some of our very important clients. The man with black hair was Mr. Thompson, while the other man was Mr. Jobs.

The waiter came and took our orders. When it was time for me to order, Mr. Theller interrupted me, saying, "That will be enough. You can go," he told the waiter, and I eyed him, shocked and confused. I was so hungry, and tears threatened to come out. Why was he doing this to me? I haven't done anything wrong for him to treat me this way. But I was strong, so I refused to give him the satisfaction of seeing me cry.

"Wait! Won't Ms. Carter order anything?" Mr. Jobs said, and I smiled at his generosity. At least he cared, unlike others.

"No. She will not order anything. Ms. Carter told me this morning that she had stomach pains, and I think she shouldn't eat Italian food when she is taking medication," Mr. Theller said. I prayed to the almighty to give me the strength not to stab him to death using a fork.

The nerve of this jerk; he lied to everyone.

"Is that so?" Mr. Thompson asked me, raising an eyebrow. I glanced at Caleb to see him already staring at me. Taking a deep breath, I gave him a shaky smile and nodded. I could feel Caleb's eyes on me, but I refused to look at him as I stared ahead, nibbling on my lips.

"Very well then, you may go," he told the waiter, and the waiter left, leaving my hope to die inside my stomach. I hadn't eaten anything all day, and I was dying to satisfy my hunger. '

While the waiter was gone, the men chatted about their business while I waited patiently for the meeting to end.

"So, what do you think about the proposal Mr. Jobs?" Mr. Theller asked, making me look towards them.

"Ah, the proposal. Well, I think your energy, innovative ideas, and proven record of accomplishment are a great combination with our strong franchise and corporate culture. No wonder you are so successful at such a young age," Mr. Jobs said, and I began to think, yeah, he really is successful for his age.

"Yes, and he even provides the customer with a unified banking experience. So, I think fixing this deal will be a great profit for our franchise," Mr. Thompson added, and I looked at Mr. Theller, giving him a quiet smile and nod.

He doesn't seem like the person to feel proud of himself even after getting the toughest deal.

I was impressed.

"Thank you, and I assure you that you won't ever regret your decision," Mr. Theller said, and finally, the deal was made. They signed some contracts and shook hands.

Meanwhile, the waiter came and served their orders. My mouth watered seeing the dishes. I loved Italian.

They served themselves, and I watched as Mr. Theller gave me a smug look as if he knew what I was thinking. I looked away and bent my head.

"Are you sure, Ms. Carter, that you don't want to eat?" Mr. Jobs asked.

"Yeah, I'm sure. Thank you for asking," I replied, and Mr. Jobs shrugged his shoulders. I watched as three of them ate, and I averted my gaze to my phone to keep myself from looking towards the mouth-watering food.

Finally, it was over, and they went away shaking hands. As I guessed, Mr. Theller again didn't bother to give me a lift, and I was left alone on the street searching for a taxi to get back to the office.

When I reached the building, I began to feel dizzy. I thought I would buy something to eat but realized my break was already over.

I went inside the building and took the elevator.

Upon reaching my cubicle, I took a seat and relaxed a bit. I checked the memos Mr. Theller left for me on the table and began to do my work as instructed.

It was already late by the time I finished my work. I got up from my chair to deliver the file that Mr. Theller asked me to bring to him upon completion. I made my way towards his office and knocked on the door. As usual, no response.

I thought of leaving the file on his desk then leaving to go back home. I looked here and there to find no one in the office except the lady from the front counter.

Sighing, I opened the door to his office and walked in. I dropped the file on his desk and was about to leave when I realized the door of the attached room was open. For the second time today day, I walked in while he was making out with a girl. This time it was a different girl, a blonde.

Before I could walk away, they stopped kissing, and they looked at me, irritated for interrupting them.

The girl buttoned up her blouse and walked out with a flushed face while Mr. Theller seemed beyond angry.

"Well, it's because you literally ruined his little moment," my inner self mocked me, and I gulped audibly, watching him walk towards me taking long strides. He towered my 5'8" height, and I found myself wanting to hide somewhere he couldn't find me.

His shirt buttons were open, and I could see his perfectly sculpted muscular chest. My eyes looked anywhere but at him. "Oh crap," I whispered.

"How dare you?" he roared, making me flinch. "Who asked you to come in?" he shouted, and I began to take deep breaths not to break down on the first day of my job.

"I knocked, but nobody responded," I said without stuttering and looked directly into his eyes, not giving him a chance to intimidate me.

"Oh really? Ms. Carter, now you are lying to my face," he sneered, and it took every ounce of strength not to punch him on his face.

"I do not lie, Mr. Theller. I hate lies," I responded, making his eyes flicker.

It was true; I hated lies. I hated those who lied. For me, it was the most important thing. I never trusted those who lied to me.

"Don't teach me about lying, and I don't give a damn about you hating lies. I'm the boss here, and I won't tolerate such behavior from any of my employees. Do you get that? The next time you disrespect me will be your last day in this building. Remember this," he said, giving me a warning. I kept my mouth shut, not wanting to anger him more.

"Do I make myself clear?" he asked with a raised tone, and I nodded.

"When I ask you something, use your mouth and answer me," he shouted. "Yes, sir," I replied quickly.

"Now get lost," he roared. I gulped, adjusting my glasses. I took swift steps to exit the room and made sure to close the door behind me.

I would've broken down if I didn't feel so dizzy. I composed myself, grabbed my bag from my cubicle, and closed the door behind me. I walked towards the elevator when the world around me began to spin, and I held my head. I lost my balance and was just about to fall when I felt two strong arms around my waist.

"Ms. Carter," a muscular voice said, and it took me a while to register who it was.

"Ms. Carter, are you alright?" Mr. Theller held me by my shoulder and steadied me on my legs. I watched as his facial expression showed softness and warmness.

"Yes," I managed to speak.

"What happened?" he asked, worried.

"I felt dizzy, probably from not eating all day," I replied, holding my head.

He was still holding me by my shoulders, steadying me and supporting me from falling. I was facing him, and I felt pressure on my shoulders.

"You mean you haven't eaten anything since morning?" He asked, and I shook my head.

I closed my eyes feeling dizzy again, and I held his hands for support.

"Ms. Carter? Ms. Carter are you alright?" he asked. I managed to nod.

I steadied myself, and only then did I notice his hands clutching mine.

Sangavi...

I mentally heard a voice calling my name, making me flinch away from Mr. Theller.

I composed myself, and I adjusted my dress.

"Ms. Carter, are you alright?" Mr. Theller tried to touch me again but stopped when I flinched away from his touch, feeling disgusted.

He gave me a confused look and furrowed his eyebrows.

"I'm fine. Thank you," I manage to mutter and began to walk away.

"Let me drop you off at home, Ms. Carter," he called.

"No. Thank you, it's alright," I replied quietly and dashed away.

I didn't like it when he touched me.

He's a womanizer, going through women like worn-out clothes. He is not good, Sangavi; I scolded myself and took a taxi back home.

***********************