Out of comfort zone

LUCY

As I stood by the xerox machine, feeding it paper after paper, I couldn't help but feel a sense of frustration building up within me. Printing out documents, answering calls, and running errands had become the mundane routine of my job. I jabbed at the buttons on the machine with more force than necessary, my annoyance clearly evident.

I'm so over this. I can't just do this anymore. That's it. I'm going to ask Rocco to allow me to attend this afternoon's meeting. It's been months since I joined and still haven't got a chance to set foot in the conference room along with Rocco.

I attended a few meetings with Alex though, that was more like one-on-one meetings. But this meeting with Rocco will be full on discussions about business operations, strategies and issues with other department heads and team members.

With new determination, I went to Rocco's office. After knocking twice, I entered the room and slammed the papers I had just printed on his desk as gently as possible.

You see, it's been a few days since my personal life became a hot topic in the office and slowly everyone started to mind their own business. So I'm trying to keep a low profile and also I don't want Rocco to think I'm being a brat just because I'm dating his boss/friend.

So how am I going to let him know that I'm frustrated? Yep, by continuously frowning. Not smart, but hopefully it gets the work done.

"Lucy, are you okay?" Rocco's voice jolted me out of my thoughts. He looked concerned.

I sighed, my irritation still simmering on the surface. "Yeah, Rocco, I'm fine. Just dealt with that temperamental Xerox machine."

His eyes flickered towards the pile of papers I had just printed. "Ah, I see. Those are the papers I asked for, right?"

I nodded, a hint of resignation in my voice. "Yeah, exactly. Just the usual."

Rocco's gaze held mine for a moment before he spoke again. "Is everything alright?"

His genuine concern caught me off guard. But maybe it's the exhaustion of the same monotonous tasks day in and day out that made me speak up. "Honestly? No, I'm getting tired of just doing administrative tasks. I feel like I'm capable of more than that."

Rocco's expression softened as he considered my words. "You know what? You are right, you have a lot to offer. I've seen your dedication and competence. What's been on your mind?"

Gathering my courage, I decided to seize the opportunity. "Well, there's an upcoming meeting, and I was wondering if I could attend. I believe it would give me a chance to contribute more and learn about other aspects of the company."

Rocco's blank stare caught me off guard, making me wonder if I had overstepped. He got up and leaned against the edge of the desk, his demeanor was serious, the playful Rocco had gone. All I can see is the COO Rocco.

''Tell me about the current projects in the Marketing department. What are they working on?"

I paused for a moment to gather my thoughts before responding. "Well, the Marketing team is currently focused on launching a new ad campaign for our upcoming product release. They're also working on revamping our social media strategy to increase engagement and reach."

Rocco nodded, satisfied with my answer. "Good. And how about the Operations department? Any significant initiatives there?"

I crossed my arms, mentally going through the information I had absorbed over the past few weeks. "In Operations, they're streamlining the supply chain process to reduce costs and improve delivery times. They're also implementing a new inventory management system to optimize stock levels."

Rocco's questioning gaze didn't waver as he pressed on. "And the Research and Development department?"

I took a deep breath, ready to provide the details. "R&D is focusing on a couple of innovative projects. They're developing a new product line that incorporates sustainable materials, aligning with our company's commitment to environmental responsibility. Additionally, they're exploring ways to integrate AI technology into our existing products to enhance the user experience."

As I spoke, I noticed Rocco's expression shifting from blankness to one of genuine interest. He continued to listen attentively as I described ongoing projects in various departments, showcasing my knowledge and understanding of the company's operations.

"Lucy," he finally said, a hint of appreciation in his tone, "you seem to have a solid grasp of what's happening across the board. It's impressive to see your awareness of these projects."

I smiled, relieved that my answers had met his expectations. "Thank you! I make it a point to stay informed and engaged."

Rocco's nod indicated his approval. "Well, I believe you're ready for more than just the usual secretary tasks. Let's see what you can bring to the table in that upcoming meeting."

I was over the moon with Rocco's response. I thanked him profusely and prepared myself mentally for the meeting. Little did I know, the day was about to take a turn I hadn't anticipated.

^_^

As Rocco and I walked into the conference room, I noticed that the room was abuzz with activity, yet the meeting hadn't started. I took a seat, feeling a mixture of excitement and nervousness. I glanced at Rocco, who wore a slightly puzzled expression. "Rocco, why hasn't the meeting started yet?" I whispered.

He looked around and then leaned in closer to me. "Well, the thing is, Alex needs to join the meeting before it can begin."

I furrowed my brow in confusion. "Alex? Why would the CEO attend a meeting led by the COO?"

Rocco hesitated for a moment, and then he chuckled softly. "You see, I might have mentioned to Alex that you would

be attending this meeting too."

My eyes widened in shock, and I felt a jolt of panic. "Wait, what? You told Alex that I would be here? Now, why would you do that?''

He shrugged sheepishly. ''I just mentioned it to him casually, I didn't know he would make this a big deal. I'm sorry.''

I shook my head. ''It's okay. You did nothing wrong.''

My heart raced even faster as I realized the implications of what Rocco had done. Alex a.k.a, the CEO, was going to be in the same room as me during a meeting that I wasn't entirely prepared for.

As the minutes ticked by, the tension in the room grew. I fidgeted nervously in my seat, stealing glances at the entrance every so often. Then, the door finally opened, and there he was – Alex, striding into the room.

He took a seat at the head of the table, and I couldn't help but feel a mixture of awe and appreciation. Alex was confident, and his presence was commanding.

The meeting finally began, and I tried my best to focus on the discussions, but my mind was racing. I could feel Alex's gaze on me occasionally, and it only added to my unease. Every time I looked at him, I saw that serious expression, and I wondered what he was thinking.

As the meeting progressed, I managed to gather my thoughts and contribute a few ideas here and there. I was surprised to find that Alex was actually paying attention when I spoke, and even more surprised when he nodded in agreement with one of my suggestions.

After what felt like an eternity, the meeting came to an end. I let out a sigh of relief, feeling a mix of accomplishment and relief. As everyone started to leave the room, Alex remained seated, his serious expression softening just a bit.

He turned to me, and for the first time, I saw a hint of a smile on his face. "You did well in there, Tesoro.''

I blinked in surprise, feeling a rush of warmth. "Thanks."

I don't know why it came out in a whisper though.

He stood up and walked over to me, his serious demeanor giving way to something softer. "You surprised me, you know. I didn't expect you to speak up like that.''

I smiled shyly, feeling a sense of validation I hadn't expected. "Well, I wanted to prove myself, show that I can handle more than just assistant work. Of course, my previous experience as a manager helped too.''

''Yeah and you did.'' He said, leaning down and placed a gentle kiss on my lips.

I sighed and got up without breaking the kiss. I wrapped my arms around his neck and deepened the kiss.

My breathing got heavy as Alex broke the kiss and started trailing his lips along my jaw, all while gripping my hips. He lifted me and placed me at the edge of the desk with ease.

I opened my legs and wrapped them around his waist, bringing him close. His huge body hovered over me and I couldn't breathe. Maybe it's because everything about him is overwhelming. Like his breath or the scent of his cologne or his warmth.

''You are driving me crazy, Tesoro. It's getting hard to sleep alone, even more after the night I spent at your house.'' He said, gripping my neck and dragging his lips down my throat.

I gulped and nodded my head. I know that feeling. I miss him like crazy at nighttime. Not because we don't get to do naughty things, but because I miss cuddling with him. Never in a million years I thought I'd like to cuddle while sleeping, but damn, I can't wait to have him in my bed again.

''You can have a sleepover at my place tonight.'' I whisper-moaned while he gave open mouth kisses on my neck.

He chuckled and buried his head in my neck. ''I wish.'' His hot breath fanned on me as he spoke. ''But I have something — a family gathering that I need to attend.''

I felt a little down that he didn't invite me to meet his family, but I shrugged it off. Maybe it's something too personal and he thought it wasn't the right time?

Even though I tried not to show disappointment, my face must have betrayed me because Alex looked concerned.

''I could cancel—''

''Good lord, No!!!— I mean it's fine, we can rain check it when you are free?'' I tried to smile and hopefully he bought it.

Who am I kidding? I don't even sound unaffected to myself.

He cupped my face and caressed my cheekbone with his thumb, making me melt.

''You sure?'' He asked in a soft voice and my heart skipped a beat. I felt like I was in a trance and just nodded my head.

Alex smiled, looking pleased. ''Then, we are going to have many sleepovers from tomorrow.'' He muttered before crashing his lips into mine, knocking me out of breath, literally and figuratively.

___________

As the school doors swung open, I spotted Jay and Vicky coming out together. But something was different today. Vicky seemed unusually calm.

I exchanged a puzzled glance with Jay, hoping he might shed some light on the situation, but his shrugged response indicated that he was just as baffled as I was.

Vicky caught our exchange, and for a moment, our eyes met but he chose to ignore us. It wasn't until we were all buckled into the car that I finally asked Vicky what was bothering him.

"Hey, sweetheart," I began gently, "is everything okay? You seem a little sad."

Vicky sighed, his small shoulders slumping. "My friend isn't talking to me," he muttered, his voice barely audible.

My heart ached for him. I wanted to scoop him up in a warm hug and make everything right again. "Oh, I'm so sorry to hear that. Would you like to tell me what happened?"

Vicky hesitated for a moment before he began to recount his story. "I accidentally spilled juice on her favorite dress, Mom. She's really mad at me."

Awe. Poor baby. I feel so sorry for him. ''Did you apologize?''

He nodded. ''I did, but she is still angry. I don't think she'll ever speak to me again.''

''We don't know that. Is she the same girl you introduced to me?'' I vaguely remember her, she is such a cute kid.

''Yeah. She is the one.''

''What does she like? Maybe you should apologize with a gift.'' I mean, I would love that.

Vicky frowned and thought for a few seconds. Suddenly, his face beamed with a smile. ''I know! She likes to draw. Although she is not good at it.''

''That's it then. We already have a new set of water-colored tubes. You can give it to her.''

''Mom! Those are mine!'' Jay shouted and he definitely didn't look pleased with the idea.

''But you are not using them right now. I'll buy you a new set next time. Okay?''

He still looks unconvinced. ''Why? Vicky said she didn't even know how to draw, then what's she gonna paint?''

''Maybe she'll get to learn now?'' I said and looked at Vicky for backup.

''Yes! She will! Jay pleeeaassseee. For me.'' Vicky clasped his hands together and pleaded.

I looked at Jay and tried to cover my smile. The look on Jay's face, God! He just can't say no to his baby brother.

Jay gave in ''Fine''. And when Vicky squealed in joy, he muttered 'I'm already starting to hate her'.

I shook my head at their silliness and smiled.

"Hey, how about we do something to cheer you both up?" I suggested. "How about we go get some ice cream?"

Their eyes lit up at the idea, and a small smile crept onto Jay's face. We pulled into the parking lot of our favorite ice cream parlor, and I reached into my purse for some money.

"Alright, what flavors would you like?" I asked, turning towards them.

Vicky's face lit up as he requested his usual chocolate chip cookie dough but Jay's expression grew contemplative. "I'll have chocolate, Mom," he said, his voice soft but resolute.

Leaving the boys in the car, I entered the parlor alone. I waited in line, the cheerful chatter and the sweet scent of ice cream surrounding me.

Finally, it was my turn. I stepped forward and placed my order.

Holding the cones carefully, I stepped out of the parlor and just as I began to round the corner to the parking lot entrance, a strong arm suddenly snaked around my waist, pulling me backwards with a force that sent shockwaves through me.

My eyes widened in shock, and before I could react, a hand clamped over my mouth, muffling any attempt to scream.