The following morning you ask Jefferson to drive Harrison to the office. Just to avoid any suspicions of you being at his place.
When he walks into the office that morning, you feel the weight on your chest release just a little. Your face gives nothing away.
“Good morning Sir.”
“Good morning!”
There’s a bit of pep in his step. A complete change from yesterday. Not that you’re really complaining. You’ve never been able to truly understand this man from the moment you met.
“Did you smoke something last night? You look unnaturally happy. Even for you.”
“Your humor always brightens my day Ms. Yale.”
“You’re evading the question.”
“Am I?”
He only smiles, and you enter the elevator. You squint.
“If you keep staring I may get the wrong impression.” He comments.
You aren’t sure how you feel about this cheeky side of him. It’s suspicious.
“If you tell me what you’re planning I’ll work pro bono for the next two weeks.”
“Tempting. But if I tell you, where is the fun in that?”
“There’s nothing fun about trying to catch an unstable stalker.”
“You should try to look on the bright side.”
“There is no bright side to this situation.”
Harrison presses a button, and the elevator stops. Now you’re even more worried. He’s definitely hiding something.
“Why did you decide to stay in this job?”
You don’t expect the question.
“Because the paycheck looks good.”
He is still wearing a knowing smile.
“You’re overqualified for this position. I’ve seen the clients you’ve had in the past. I’m what they call the smaller fish. So I’ll ask again. Why did you take me as a client?” He takes a step, and you take one back.
“I…”
You can’t seem to find the words.
It’s almost like he expects that response.
“If even a piece of you trusts me, then I’d like to appeal to that. Have faith that I know what I’m doing.”
This has never happened before. Not in all your years of working these jobs.
“It’s my job to protect you sir. How can you ask me to just blindly trust that whoever is doing this will somehow find some kind of humanity and let it go. You have no idea how powerful hate is.”
“I’m very aware of what hate can do. I’ve experienced it firsthand.” His eyes tell no lies. There’s something there. Behind the mystery is understanding. One you never thought you would see from someone as entitled as him.
“I’m not asking you to trust this person, I’m asking you to trust me.” You swallow.
“I..do trust you..”
His smile is warm.
“Then we’ll both be alright.”
There’s nothing more that’s said. He clicks the button, and the elevator returns to its previous destination. You just stand there with a dazed look on your face. When it opens, you can hear the glee in his voice.
“Onward!!”
He walks out, and you follow quietly.
Everyday Harrison seems to make you question so much.
Disclaimer: If you like surprises, please do not read blurb!
Two past lovers encounter each other once again. While trying to distinguish the new boss and employee relationship they find themselves in strange encounters. Explosions and retaliations are the residue left over from their past. Both Mila and Harry wish to move on in order to work in a tranquil environment. The only way to acquire said wish is to talk out their past, but it seems like they can never get on the same page. Will they ever move on? Or will they shove the past in to the back of their minds in order to work harmoniously? One question that strides to Mila's mind is why did he come back? Short story! Hope you like it 🖤
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Also, I have a wattpad that you guys can follow: https://www.wattpad.com/Ianalizz?utm_source=web&utm_medium=tumblr&utm_content=share_profile
Would I lose myself in him or would he enhance the better parts of my writing? Mila always wondered what would happen if the right guy swooped her off her feet. Now it seems so distant since she’s distracted. She doesn’t have to worry about guys now with her new job promotion being just in reach. It took three years to get (or almost get) to this point of her life. She is not going to let anyone ruin this for her. Not even the clueless barista at the coffee shop her boss loves. “Is this four pumps of caramel and one shot of coconut because I saw you do two caramel and two coconut. I’m going to need another iced coffee. I beg of you please make it right this time, my potential job depends on this order.” Her brown eyes pierce into the teenager and he simply nods and scoffs while taking her order back and replacing it. She mouths a loud thank you and walks out of the crowded coffee shop with a huge smile. As she says good morning to bystanders, they feel warm and can’t tell if it’s the well dressed brunette or the summer sun.
Mila makes her way into the tall glass building in the middle of New York City. The famous building is owned by Jeff Finn, one of the most famous writers in the country. The security guard greets Mila with a wave and she waves back rather aggressively while entering the elevator. Her excitement cannot be contained. She knew she was getting the job the minute it was presented to three interns: herself, snoring Steve, and Kelsey. Let it be known that Kelsey has been on maternity leave for three years and no one has heard of her since. There’s a rumor that she died, but according to her Facebook status she’s just... inactive.
The elevator dings on floor three and she leaps out while looking at her watch. Just in time, she thinks. Just in time to be early. A whole hour and seventeen minutes early. The front desk lady, Denise smiles as Mila leans over to say hello. “Hi, sweetheart. How are ya doing?” She asks with great concern.
Mila finds this confusing because it is obvious that she’s doing great. “Um amazing! How can you even ask me that Denise? Mr. Finn will give me the promotion and I’ll finally have,” She breathes deeply and almost tears up, “benefits.” She bites her lips and does a little dance showing her enthusiasm.
Mila slowly stops when noticing Denise’s facial expression. She reaches out of Mila’s arm, “Oh no. I thought someone would have told you.” Her thumb rubs Mila in a comforting style, but Mila jerks away slowly.
“Told me what? Don’t say that snoring Steve got that position! He talks out of his ass.” Mila’s voice grows into a whisper as Denise points toward the doorway revealing Steve. “G-good morning… man” She nervously says with a false smile.
Steve pulls out one of his apple air pod headphones and responds with a, “Huh?” and Mila thanks God silently.
She turns her attention to Denise, going back to their previous conversation. “Mila, no one is getting a promotion anytime soon. Jeff died last Friday.” Denise’s sorrowful eyes matches Mila’s. “I’m sorry, hun.”
Mila tries to make sense of this, but it hits her like a moving truck. “S-so... no benefits?” Denise’s shocked expression makes Mila feel the need to defend herself. “What? No one liked the guy.” Denise hits Mila on the hand like a child. “Ow! Okay, okay. I do feel for him and no one deserves that. No matter how rude and despicable they are-- were.” Mila recalls the times Mr. Finn would come to her cubicle and drop papers just to watch her pick it up and the amount of times he called her Mimi makes her gag to this day. She could have simply quit, but the pay was good and it will take more than a man to make her quit her dreams in being a published poet. Her current job was only phase one in her seven year plan. Let’s include the fact that we are in year 3 and still on phase one. Phase two was the editor position, but that dream quickly crumbled. “Iced coffee?” She hands the four pumps of caramel and one shot of coconut to Denise.
At work, she can’t get her mind off the editor position that’s still open. There has to be a way to get it. Part of her thinks it’d be easy to just pretend she already got the job and the other part of her doesn’t want to risk it. I mean, it would be easy. Just go in the editor’s office and start working. I’m perfect for the job. No one will have a clue. Except maybe for snoring Steve. She glances over to Steve who seems to be asleep and drooling. Okay, maybe he won't even notice. She gets up, careful not to wake Steve because if she does she’ll have to again hear the story of how his grandmother ice skated naked eight years ago on New Year’s.
She takes the elevator to the fourth floor where all the editors are. The last office on the left is where she believes dearly that she belongs. The only obstacle that was in the way was that Mr. Finn’s office would be diagonally next to hers, but now that doesn’t seem like a problem anymore. She walks in and her white heels clack on the dark hardwood floor. Her heart beats as she floats toward the desk, letting her fingers dance on the fine dark oak and slowly makes their way to the black plush chair. Her eyes envision her clients seated right in front of her desk and on the leather seats. She sits down on her dream chair and spins while laughing a little.
Suddenly, she hears Mr. Finn’s office door open and she ducks down under the desk. She hears footsteps approach the desk and she remains frozen in place, hoping it isn’t the ghost of Mr. Finn. The footsteps come to a stop right in front of her. The figure crouches down to her level of eyesight. The man’s green eyes locks with her as their faces are merely inches from each other. His grin turns into an even bigger smile when he notices her eyebrows raise. “Need help?” His British accent as thick as the tension in the room. He extends his hand.
Mila takes his hand and rises to her feet with the help of green eyes. “Thank you.” She lightly says while brushing off any dust on her blazer.
“No problem.” He says. He scratches his head before saying, “S-so, um. How have you been?” His face bright red and sweaty hands deep in his pockets.
“Fine. Yourself?” Her arms crossed and eyes are now attempting to burn him or make him disappear like in her poems she’s written about him, but it isn’t going to be that easy. “Good, good.” He runs his fingers through his curls and out of his eyes, gaining the confidence to say, “Look Mila,”
“Save it.” She cuts him off quickly while turning to exit, but in the back of her head she needs to know; why is he back? “W-what are you even doing here Harry?” Her lips press together as she cocks her head to the side waiting on his answer.
“Well, I…” She cuts him off again.
“Why would you think for one second I would want to see you again?”
“I didn’t mean to,” There she goes again.
“To what? Leave without telling me? Move to a whole other country without telling me?” Her voice bounces off the walls.
“Mila, I…”
“You what?” Just let him talk! Oh sorry. I’m getting too into this.
Finally, once Mila is ready to hear his excuses as to why he left two years ago, a knock appears at the door. The pair looks at Mr. Finn’s assistant, Griffin, as he pops his multicolored dyed head into the room. “Mr. Styles, you have a meeting at eleven with the board and where would you like the interviews held for the new editor position?” In between his flamboyant words Mila makes the connection as to why Harry is here.
Harry clears his throat and says, “I’ll be out in a minute.” With that Griffin closes the door and the pair regain eye contact.
“You’re replacing Mr. Finn aren’t you?” Mila questions with her shoulders hanging low. Although she is really vexatious due to the fact he left, deep down she wanted him to say he had come back for her. He nods his head while walking toward the door, opening it for her. She glances back in to the editor’s office longingly before kissing her seven year plan goodbye.
Walking back to her cubicle, she runs in to Denise who notices that Mila is nervously picking at her nails. “Oh so you didn’t hear yet?” Denise smiles.
“Hear what?” Mila shrugs her shoulders, but maintains her distinguishably sad posture.
“The new boss flew in last night and is rescheduling the editor’s position interviews! Isn’t that great? You’ll get benefits!” Denise starts to happy dance and notices that Mila isn’t doing so, therefore killing the vibe. “Uh uh, nope. No moping. You’re a shoo in for that job.” She states convincingly while wagging her finger at Mila.
“I don’t think so. It’s Harry.” Mila mutters.
“Why do you still have that asshole in your mind? It’ been two years.” Denise says throwing her arms in the air, but whispering yet shouting.
“No, Denise. The boss is Harry.” Denise’s eyes widen and she looks at Mila with such sorrow once again.
Mila has no choice but to drown herself in work. It distracts her from thinking of Harry and the fact that she might not even have an intern position by next week. Yelling at the boss on his first day isn’t really… recommended. The only thing keeping her going is the fact that she already paid the next three months rent in advance. At least that’s something she did not have to worry about. She’s also looking forward to the full moon tonight. Something about that circle in the sky always intrigued her.
The thoughts of Mila and the snores of Steve are interrupted by Griffin. “Steve!” Steve awakens belligerently with a low groan. “Boss-man would like to see you,” Griffin says. Is Harry interviewing for the position now? Mila thinks. She can feel her heart frown as well as her lips.
“I thought he was dead.” Steve says while wiping the crumb out of his eyes.
“New boss. Now wipe that drool off your face and look somewhat presentable. See you up there in 5.” Griffin says as he shoots Mila a small smile and Steve one more glare. Steve does as told and gets up, possibly to rob Mila of her temporary dream job.
Steve hasn’t come back and it’s already past clock out time. Mila has to do last minute touches before she can leave her desk. She skims the window to take in the scenery of the sun setting. The yellows, oranges, and pink mesh together to create intangible beauty, humans barely deserve to look at it. She looks at her reflection and notices that she isn’t the only one there. She turns back swiftly and sees Harry yet again. “Oh hi?” She questions more than says.
“It’s 5:37. What are you still doing here?” He questions while leaning on Steve’s desk.
“I just had to do some work before the... before I leave.” She packs up everything on her desk and grabs her purse.
“Before the full moon?” His voice, light, almost hesitant. “I remember you wanting to finish everything so you can focus on your writing under the moonlight.” He smiles to himself losing eye contact with Mila.
This small talk and walk through memory lane breaks Mila’s heart all over again, but she can’t be mean to her new boss. “Yeah. Anyway, I must go. Good night.” He looks at her directly one last time before moving out of her way.
“Good night, Mila.” She passes him and walks out, not looking back. He stares at her, hoping for one more dose of her brown eyes, but he is left craving.
Now in sweats, fuzzy socks, a Southern Connecticut State sweater and no makeup, Mila sits on her fire escape waiting for the muse of the moon to unleash the breathtaking and wishful words. C’mon moon. Give me something. How about her eyes danced as she searches for… Nope. Human nature is… No. Two years is a HUGE AMOUNT OF...Nada. She can’t seem to focus. All she can think about is how her ex boyfriend is now her boss and she might possibly have to find a new job. Maybe I can work as a barista. I’d be the best damn barista in the… Nah. As if on cue, an unknown number calls Mila. Maybe talking to a tax scammer can clear her mind. “Hello?” Her monotone voice earns a familiar chuckle from the other side.
“Glad you haven’t changed your number.” Harry mumbles over the phone taking Mila back a little. He had saved her number all this time. “Listen, I wanted to apologize if it seemed like I ambushed you with my presence today.” His voice is dim. There is a pause between them. Harry’s side of the phone captures the pops of his fireplace. Harry can also hear the wind howling through Mila’s side. “I’m also sorry that I left.” Those words takes Mila’s breath away. “It was selfish and I can never forgive myself for hurting you. It was never my intention. Seeing you today took me back to before and it,” he gulps before saying, “and it tortured me all day. I just hope we can work past this. Good night.” With that, Mila is left with the dial tone and inspiration.
Her fingers cramp up begging her to stop typing and editing, but she has to or else the moment will be gone. She can see her reflection on the laptop screen and her smile is ear to ear as she finishes up her last line. The moon came through for her tonight like it always has.
The next morning, dreadful. The elevator doors ring as they open up to the third floor revealing Griffin. “Mila! Yes, Mr. Styles has been looking for you! Go upstairs and meet him right away.” He chimes pressing the fourth floor button and walking out, barely giving her time to acknowledge him or even breathe.
She does as told and walks slowly toward his office, and of course she can’t help, but to take a peek into the new editor’s office to see if Steve really got the position. As she peers in, her eyes spot Harry sitting on the desk with his legs up revealing his Chelsea boots and his phone in his hands. Confusingly, she enters capturing Harry’s attention. “Mila!” Taken off guard, he stumbles back with the chair and falls over.
Mila rushes to his side in a fit of laughter. “Oh my God. Are you okay?” She asks in between giggles. Harry joins her with a chuckle that’s infused with a groan of pain. She looks at him and extends a hand, “Need help?” She questions. Harry smiles and accepts her kind gesture.
As soon as the chair is back into place, Harry commands Mila to sit in it. She awkwardly does as Harry goes around to the leather chairs across the desk. “How do you feel?” He asks while sitting down slowly.
“I think I should be asking you. Are you sure you’re okay?” She now seriously asks. He nods and points to her with his hand, directing the question back to her. “Well, I feel pretty good. Why?”
Harry can’t hide the huge smile any longer and says, “I’ve considered deeply who deserves this editor position and you earned it.” Mila’s face doesn’t know if it should smile, roll her eyes or frown. “I thought you’d be happy.”
“I am. I would love this job, but I can’t help but think that it’s because of our history. Therefore, I do not want it if it’s coming from you.” She wants to earn this job and she genuinely believes she did, but it seems so given to her if it’s by an ex.
Harry stands up, flabbergasted at what she just said. “Mila, look it was between you and Steve. Kelsey doesn’t work here so we ruled her out. Steve? Snoring Steve?” He knows about that? “He was fired yesterday because of the five hour security footage of him sleeping in the janitor’s closet.” He comes closer to Mila’s desk and leans over, using his arms to balance him leaning over Mila’s face. “You were the only who came close to earning this position. If you even think for one second it was magically handed to you because of some past feelings, you’re wrong. This is a business, so do your job.” Harry says sternly and turns around slamming his office door. Mila believes that she has earned this job after what Harry said, but how he said it makes her feel a fire in the dark places of her heart. He didn’t have to scrutinize her in such an impassioned form. I’m taking this job, she thought, and then I’ll take his. Whoa there, Mila, what happened to the plan?
The next few days involve work and longing looks between Harry and Mila that morphs into rolls of eyes and scoffs. They haven’t spoken since Harry’s big blow up and to be frank, Mila doesn’t mind not talking to him. She’s done it for two years, she can handle it. You know who can’t? Big boss man Harry. He can’t stand watching her and not being able to speak to her, so he enters her office. “Yes?” She acknowledges him without looking directly at him. He hasn’t step foot in her new office since he gave her the job and now realizes that she has made it her own. The original poetry on the wall he recognizes from times Mila would read to him at night. The empty shelves were now stacked with her favorite books from To Kill A Mockingbird by Harper Lee to Pillow Thoughts by Courtney Peppernell. On the pale gray wall there are wooden picture frames that matches her desk with her family in them. She looks up when she realizes that he hasn’t said a word and it is because he is in awe of how much this empty room changed within days. “Yes?” She asks once more.
“Oh, well I was stopping by to apologize.” He says nervously playing with the sleeves of his button down.
“You’ve been doing that lately.” Mila puts her pen on the desk heavily to place her attention on him.
“I didn’t mean to explode like that. I just don’t want there to be a problem between us because of our past. I owned up to my mistakes and you still treat me so cold. Can we both grow up and put this behind us just to have this a decent place to work.” He says, finally letting go of his sleeve and making direct eye contact with her. He can almost feel himself burning from the inside out with the look she’s giving him.
Mila sucks her teeth and contemplates before she nods her head toward the door, signifying him to close it. He does as so and turns to her as she walks around her desk and sits on it. She crosses her legs and let out a breath. “I would love to, but in order for that to happen we must clear the air. Talk about everything and then leave it behind. It’s the only way I can move on and I’m betting the same thing goes for you.” She feels proud handling this so maturely. It’s true, she wants to get along for the sake of their jobs.
He inches closer and sits on the leather couch. “Do you want to start or should I?” He looks up to her gaze and fights the urge to remove the strand of loose hair covering her eyes.
“Well…” She elongates the well and raises her voice high and hops off the desk walking toward the window wall that has the most perfect view of the busy streets and billboards hoping the flashes of light and speeding cars would distract him a bit.
“What did you do?” He tilts his head while his eyes dilate.
Mila hesitates before saying, “I was just so angry at you and I-I…”
“Mila,” He warns.
“I called the board and said that you called me on my personal phone late at night and I found it completely inappropriate and I’m sorry.” She rushes her words and turns to Harry, who practically jumps off the chair causing it to scrap the floor.
“You what?!” Harry snaps and looks at her in disbelief. He inhales deeply and exhales loudly.
Mila can feel her face heat up because of the embarrassment of her retaliation toward Harry’s outbursts. “We can fix this. All I did was leave a message, they probably haven’t heard it.” She says.
“It’s useless.” He whispers putting his face in his hands. “Hopefully I’ll just get a warning or something.” Harry knows a warning is far from reach. Calling an employee of the opposite sex late at night and suddenly giving her a job promotion in his first two days isn’t really a great impression. Harry knows his job was on the line, but he doesn’t want to worry Mila.
“No, no. I have a plan.” She has that determined look in her eyes that Harry is all too familiar with. He begins to protest, but Mila’s brain is already calibrating. There is no stopping her now.
They both make their way to the elevator and head toward the second floor where the board member's offices are. Mila ignores Harry’s pleas to stop her from getting him in anymore trouble. “Okay,” Mila says. “We can’t let them see us or they will know somethings up. We have to crawl past front desk and see where they forwarded my call.” Mila knows her plan sounds strange, but 78% of the time they work, which are good odds for her.
They did as so. Mila leads the way and Harry follows her past the front desk. Harry respectfully attempts to keep his eyes toward the floor and not toward Mila. Mila’s positive that Harry’s tight pants would have ripped by now. They continue to crawl until they are out of sight. “How do you know they won’t be in their office?” Harry questions with a whisper.
Mila tries to come up with a softer way to say, I called again today to report you, but the front desk said they would be in a meeting until eleven. “Not important.” That works, too. “Now check those offices on the left and I’ll check the right ones. We’ll cover more ground.”
There are five offices Harry and Mila must check and only seven minutes to do so. The first office for Mila was dark and only lit by what she assumes was a blueprint mistake. The light source is a small and narrow window place awkwardly on the far left corner of the office. Mila tries to keep her mind on the plan, but the multiple cat painting hanging on the wall distracted her just a tad. Focus Mila. She tells herself over and over while nearing the phone. She picks it up and dials 1, which automatically directs her to the voicemail box, but no luck. The second one for Mila is also a dead end, but Harry’s second one is the winner. He feels the need to listen even though the little voice in his head tells him not to. Which is me. DON’T DO IT HARRY. IT ISN’T GOOD. He ignores and listens to the message.
Hello, I would love to speak to a board member. My name is Mila Castillo and I’d like to report one of your employees. My new boss and I have history. I tried to keep it out of my mind, but I can’t. Especially with him calling me at an unreasonable hour on my personal phone. It was completely inappropriate and I’m hoping you can deal with this. Thank you. Call me back.
Harry’s breath feels like it’s been punched out of him. He deletes the call and walks over to the door, but upon opening it, Mila runs in and shuts the doors. “Board members! Hide!” She whispers. Harry opens the supply closet filled with coats and brooms and grabs Mila by the wrist, pulling her in with him. As soon as the door closes they can swear someone entered. Mila and Harry have no choice but to stand chest to chest in this small supply closet. Mila looks up at him, “Did you find it?” Harry only nods and looks away from her eyes. “And you listened, didn’t you?” Mila wants him to shake his head no, but based on his current expression she already knows the answer. He nods again. “Look, I’m sorry. I wasn’t thinking and I…”
“You were right.” He announces in a faint voice, cutting her sentence short. He moves back into some coats, maintaining a few inches from Mila. The silence in the closet makes Mila want to wish herself out of the situation, but wishful thinking can only go so far. Once Harry realizes there isn’t anyone in the room he leaves in a hurry. Mila stays in the closet a little longer hoping to catch the next elevator up.
Harry has been in his office all day with a closed door and Mila feels guilty. She can’t help it. Harry’s words keeps entering her mind as she tries to work; Can we both grow up and put this behind us just to have this a decent place to work. They echo repeatedly until she finally builds up the courage to knock on his door. A deep, “Come in.” is her cue to enter and so she does.
She walks into Harry’s office slowly and sees him looking out the gigantic window that matched Mila’s. He turns to her and offers that false pressed smile that no one wants. Mila closes the door and it vibrates the whole room. “That’s a heavy door.” She says chuckling the awkwardness away. Or so she thinks. Little did she know her chuckling summons more awkwardness. “Okay, I still think we should talk in order for us to work.” She speaks her mind and only hopes he would do the same.
He looks at her and nods, “I do too.” Mila grins, but it soon turns back into a straight line when he says, “When should I schedule our appointment.” He sits down on his chair and pulls himself closer to the desk to take a look at his calendar. “I’m free tomorrow after lunch.”
“Appointment? This isn’t some business deal, it’s about us.” Mila argues.
“You were right. On the phone. It was completely inappropriate and I’m your boss.” He says with such conviction. Mila cannot believe what she is hearing. She scoffs as she turns around and walks right out of the door, slamming it harder this time.
At home, all Mila can do is lay on her bed and think. She looks up to the white ceiling and throws her pillow up then catches it. The bed squeaks every time she uses all her force to throw the fluffy pink pillow up with both hands to the ceiling, but it fails to touch it every time.
Once she gives up, she grabs her phone. She looks at her recent call list and looks for the unknown number Harry called from nights ago. She presses it and breathes out preparing to have the talk with him. Unfortunately she gets his voicemail; You’ve reached Harry Styles. Please Leave a message: “Hey, hi. Listen, um. I’m sorry. I know what I said on the voicemail must have affected you and I didn’t mean them. I was just mad. I get mad and retaliate, you get mad and explode. We’re not perfect. I’m still getting used to this boss and employee relationship and still trying to figure things out. You wouldn’t believe the amount of times I sat on my fire escape and contemplated if quitting would work, but you’re right. We both earned these positions and the only way to get through this rough patch is to talk it through and leave nothing in the air. So schedule me for tomorrow after lunch please.” Mila giggles at that last part and hopes that Harry can find it in his heart to not leave her guessing in the dark on where they stand.
The night falls and the moon isn’t as radiant as when it’s full. Especially with the fog and the rain. Mila thought the pitter patter on her window would help her focus, but tonight lightning accompanied with thunder ruined the mood. Mila blames her horrible writing on the night sky. She attempts to write on paper, but soon realizes why she hated it. Crumbled pieces surround her on the gray covered bed and hardwood floors. Her mini trash can from five below overflowed with loose lines of poetry. Her mind yearns for a break from this depressing session. She finally agrees and goes into her kitchen to grab a water bottle from the fridge. As she chugs it down, she grabs her phone from the kitchen charger and realizes that she has 2 missed calls from the unknown number. She curses under her breath and attempts to call him back, but it goes straight to voicemail. She hangs up and regrets her willpower and rule of no phone while writing.
Unexpectedly a knock appears at her door. She goes to open it and reveals a drenched Harry. She takes a moment to figure out her words, but Harry comes in abruptly. “I can’t wait until tomorrow at lunch.” He says dripping on to the floor. Mila didn’t care that he’s making a mess at this moment. She closes the door and turns to him. “We need to talk and you said fire escape in your message so I was hoping you still live here. Can we please talk?” He says breathlessly. She nods and drinks the rest of her water to calm her sudden dry throat.
After Harry changes into Mila’s extra large SCSU shirt that she would normally sleep in and her brother’s basketball shorts that he left the last time he was here, she lit the fireplace and gave him a blanket to get him warm. He protested on all of that, but Mila was not letting him get hypothermia on her watch. After putting his clothes in the dryer, she finally sits on her plushy couch, joining him. “So,” She starts off, “let’s talk.” She leans her head on her hand which rests on the top of the couch.
Harry admires her soft features he hasn’t seen in years. The fresh face girl has rosy cheeks and plump pink lips that are foreign to him now and he can’t take it anymore. What other reason would he have to walk in the rain than to tell her his feelings that he has been fighting the moment he saw her again. “I,” He says barely audible. He looks at her eyes getting more than a dose and he’s suddenly in a trance. Mila snaps her fingers in his face returning him back to reality. “I left.”
In a flash, Harry remembers the day particularly. Mila and him were a few months in to their relationship and were at a good place. They were never in love, but almost there. Harry and Mila started working straight out of college as interns in a publishing office. It was exciting, adventurous, perfect. Almost like high school where the principle can’t catch you sneaking around. They were both hard workers though and that did not go unnoticed. They were both recommended for the manager position in Eastern London. Harry was the one that got it. Mila would have been supportive of her boyfriend, but what Harry doesn’t know is that Mila dropped out of the running so Harry can have the opportunity of a lifetime. She believed their relationship was strong enough at this point to overcome obstacles such as distance, but she wasted a wishful thought. Unfortunately, what Mila encountered was Harry leaving without telling her. Slowly they became emotionally distant to complement the physical distance. It was simply easier to forget about each other.
“Why didn’t you tell me?” Mila’s eyes become glossy as they relive one of the most heartbreaking part of both their lives. The tears threaten to come down, but she puts her chin up and tries to gain control again.
Harry can’t look at her because he knows if he does, he’ll break. His eyes stare at the warm flames trying to distract himself, but once he hears her gasp through the tears, he crumbles. “I knew you gave up that job.” He admits. She looks at him with such confusion. “That’s why I left, because I knew that you giving up that job meant…” He can’t finish that sentence because the fear of him being wrong all these years haunts him and it just can’t be true because leaving would have been for nothing.
Mila sniffles as she calls his name for the first time since she found out she was his employee, “Harry?” He shuts his eyes moments before turning toward her and having a tear stain his pale cheek. “It meant I loved you.” She confesses. Their eyes now can’t look away from each other. “You were scared that I loved you?” She questions.
Harry nods and bites his bottom lip trying to fight back anymore tears before saying, “And I didn’t know if I loved you so, I left.” The truth behind his words makes Mila feel peaceful inside. She isn’t wondering what she did wrong anymore. It feels like a weight has been lifted off her shoulders. Harry finally feels like he can breath thin air. “And I’m really sorry. Walking into your office today, I noticed that a lot can change in a short amount of time. You decorated it and it look unrecognizable. Maybe we both are too.” He says removing a piece of hair that always manages to cover her eyes. She takes her hand to return a favor and wipe his tear with her thumb gently.
“Maybe it’s good. A fresh start. It seems like we need it.” While their hands touch one another slightly, they never want to let go of each other or the moment. “So,” Mila chuckles lightly, this time comfortably with no awkwardness at all, “there’s something I’ve been meaning to ask you.” Harry smiles and tells her to go on, “I know you’re my boss and everything, but can I not call you Mr. Styles. I mean it’s weird, isn’t it?” He laughs along, placing his free hand to his chest as if he’s having a laugh attack.
“Harry is fine.” He smiles at Mila and lets go of her hair finally
While waiting for Harry’s clothes to dry, the romantic comedy, The Kissing Booth, played on her living room TV, keeping them busy. Mila decides to grab her laptop and give writing another chance tonight. She sits with Harry on the couch and types away. “My God Mila, don’t you ever take a break?” Harry teases. Mila retaliates by throwing him a throw pillow. He lets out a whine, “Hey! Just because it’s in the name, doesn’t mean you should throw it!”
Just then, the dryer buzzer goes off and Mila puts her laptop on the ottoman. Harry watches her walk to the hallway with a smile plastered on his face. His eyes look down toward the laptop which has her files open. He doesn’t mean to pry, but if a file had your name on it, wouldn’t you? He grabs the laptop and open the Harry files. The last update to it was 5 days ago, when Harry called Mila. He opens the document and the little voice returns; HARRY C’MON! DON’T DO IT, but Harry doesn’t listen.
Bitter green eyes.
Ones that burn you from the inside out.
You disintegrate and put your molecules back together.
Just to be broken again.
Pall pink lips.
Like all the others.
You melt and become lost at sea trying to find yourself.
Just to be lost again.
-Mila Castillo
Harry cannot fathom what he just read. He turns as soon as he hears a creak coming from behind him. He makes eye contact with Mila and she automatically knows what he’s done. “Were you snooping on my laptop?” She puts the basket of his clothes down on the dining table and places her arms crossed against her chest.
“Did you really mean those things about me?” Harry stands up still utterly shocked at her piece. He walks toward her. “Mila, what was all that about? Bitter green eyes? Pall pink lips? Is that really how you felt about me just days ago?” He questions towering her now.
Mila maintains her position and her eyebrow furrow as she states, “I’m sorry if I hurt your feelings, but that’s my priva…” Harry’s lips connect with hers, cutting her off. Surprised, Mila’s eyes open wide, but closes slowly as she melts into the kiss.
Harry grabs her waist pulling her in closer and Mila wraps her arms around his neck playing with his brown curls, pulling him closer also. She feels the kiss activating every single part of her body from the hairs standing up to the tingles in her spine. Harry pulls apart gently leaving Mila begging with her eyes, but keeps their foreheads connected as he whispers, “I guess your poetry is fictional.” They smile at each other for a little bit before reattaching their non pall lips.
In that moment Mila realizes that the full moon isn’t her only source of power. The words to describe this sensation of warmth between their bodies run through her mind as she pulls him closer by the hem of the shirt. She might have loved him at one point and this kiss may be epic, but the truth is she is living in the moment and hoping to forget it tomorrow when Harry is her boss once again.
Harry, drunk off the kiss, stumbles a bit trying to secure his balance. He pushes Mila into the wall gently to help him obtain good footing. Although, this is taking lots of focus from Harry’s part, he can’t erase the fact that he left something out of the story. He came back and the only reason he would ever come back is because he still loves her.
“Injury to the patella tendon usually requires what treatment, and connects which ligaments?”
Harrison is sitting crossed legged on your couch, your book in his hand. His eyes twinkle as he waits for you to answer the question. There must be a law out there somewhere against a person being this attractive. Screw studying for your midterms. You can’t focus like this.
“Harry, I think it’s better if I study alone.” His face drops.
“Is something wrong? Is it the way I phrase the questions? I can adjust it so that you understand more.”
“It’s not that.”
You don’t want to disclose the real reason, but you also don’t want him to think the help he gives is unappreciated.
“I just...I can’t focus.” you confess softly.
Harry appears lost for a few seconds, but once he sees the color that litters your cheeks, it all makes sense. He straightens, closing the book and turning his body to face you with a chuckle.
“My my, having dirty thoughts are we. How naughty. I’m even going out of my way to help.”
He loves how much his presence affects you. It goes both ways. You’d been stressing about the exams, maybe not outwardly, but he could see clearly on your face that it was bothering you. It’s why he’d offered his services. He thought a partner would help lighten the load. Your shoulders sag and he places the book on a table nearby, pulling you into his side.
“I’ve been at this all week and nothing sticks. What am I going to do? The exam is in a week.” Harry runs a hand through your hair, calming you down. Your eyes close and this time the breath you let out is one of contentment.
“Maybe that’s the problem. You’ve been trying to shove as much information into your head. You need to give yourself a break. Take a day for yourself. The more you push the higher toll it’ll take on your body. “
“Or you can just lend me your brain.” you perk up. Harry just smiles.
“I would if I could.”
“Worth a shot right.”
He’s still running a hand through your hair, and it’s so soothing that you’re afraid you’ll fall asleep right there.
“Harry, your hands are literally heaven.”
“Why thank you. Maybe I should switch professions and become a masseuse.”
“I’d pay just to come and look at you.”
That elects laughter from him.
“I’m serious, on a scale of one to ten you’re like a twenty.”
You mutter. Harry is the one fighting back a blush this time. He really does enjoy your little praises. You’re unabashed when you flatter him.
Honest.
Another thing he loves. Thinking back, he hasn’t really given you many compliments. Certainly nowhere near to how much you’ve given him. He’s been out of the game for a while, but he’s pretty sure women still like to be complimented.
“It’s come to my attention that you spend quite an amount of time praising me.”
Your eyes are still closed, and you smile, cheeks rosy.
“Well, there’s quite a lot to compliment.” you giggle. Harry brushes your hair to the side. His fingers graze your neck, and he trails a path going down.
“Quite a lot indeed.”
When you catch on to what’s happening, your breath hitches. He stops at the top of your shirt, and your eyes flicker open, instantly met with his azure hues. The desire is prominent.
“I always found it quite adorable when you insisted on remaining formal. Even when I assured you that it was fine.”
His lips brush yours, and all you want is a proper kiss. Not these sweet taunts.
“S-Sir..”
Harry grins.
“There it is. "
He closes the distance, hand groping your plump mound. Your body arches into him and he deepens the kiss, encouraged by your reactions. This was possibly the best thing to do on a Friday night. He keeps you pressed to his body, neither of you truly want to part. You find yourself pawing at his clothing. You want to feel more of him. You need to. When his hand slides under your shirt, you figure he's finally getting the message.
“Dad!”
You jump at the voice, head turning your shocked at the girl that walks into the living room. You’re still tangled up in Harry’s arms. The brunette stares in surprise. You’re mortified. Even more so when a mischievous grin rises on her face.
“I am so going to use this against you in the future. “
Harry sighs, standing as he helps you to your feet. You try to adjust your clothing. But she’s already caught the both of you in a compromising position, so it’s not like you can change that. This wasn't how you wanted your first impression to go at all.
“Jesse, this is (Y/N). (Y/N), this is my daughter Jesse.” You move forward, cheeks bright red.
“O-Of course, he’d told me so much about you, it’s such a pleasure to meet you Jesse.”
“You too. I heard all about you. Dad never stops talking about you.” Your blush darkens and Harry tries to usher her away.
“Don’t you have somewhere to be, we’re busy.”
“I saw that.”
“Jesse.”
His stern way of talking just makes her giggle more.
“I just came to check on you. You seemed stressed from work a few days ago.”
It’s only then you realize the bag she has. Big belly burger. You smile. She places it on the table.
“I’ll leave you two love birds alone. I’m heading back to the university. “
“Drive safe.”
You know he’s just trying to get rid of her so she doesn’t disclose anymore embarrassing information. She stops at the door, and the smile she sends you warms your heart.
“Seriously, thank you. It’s been a while since I’ve seen him like this. You make him happy.” Her words meant more than you could express.
“Invite me to the wedding!!” With a wave she was out the door. Harry sighed, turning to you as he adjusted his glasses.
“I apologize. She really is just like Tess.” He shook his head with a smile, probably from a memory. That feeling in your stomach returns. It's a product that follows when he wears that look whenever he talks about his late wife.
“Harry, why did you choose me?”
There’s a brief moment of pause. You know the question has thrown him off.
“I just..I know it’s crazy but sometimes I feel so self conscious. Whenever you talk about Tess, I can see how much you loved her. I just think someone that amazing, surely you would deserve someone just like that to love again.” You look away, because now you feel like crying.
“I think I’ve found that person.”
You turn at those words.
“The first time I realized how I felt, I knew you felt the exact same way. But you were scared. I know that a lot of people look at my status, my wealth, and that’s what they see. That’s what attracts them. But it scared you…because I knew that those things didn’t matter. You were afraid because I could see that you just didn’t want a relationship that was built on a company name. You wanted the real thing. I know for a fact, had I been a regular guy, you would have said yes in a heartbeat.” you swallow, and Harry takes your hand.
“You care about me because you see me, not the tech genius, or the billionaire. Or even the grump they gossip about.” you laugh at that, and Harry’s smile follows.
“That’s why I chose you.” He gives your hand a brief kiss, and your smile is possibly the brightest.
“Why did you choose me (Y/N)?” you giggle.
“You got a nice face.”
Harry is the one laughing this time, and you pull him into a hug.
“I don’t think anything I can say will top what you just did. All I know is..I love you Harry.” He holds on tighter.
"Have a great night, don't forget to say hi to your sister for me."
She smiles with a thumbs up, jumping into her car. You live pretty close by, and although she'd offer to drive you home, you preferred to walk.
The cool air was refreshing, therapeutic even. Your gaze drifts to the sky, enjoying the stars littered across your view. Nights like these were just perfect for a walk. Walks also presented a settled atmosphere for you to evaluate all that transpired that week. Your little moment a few nights ago with Harrison was pretty high on the list. The more you tried to forget about it the harder it was.
Problem was you liked being around him. Since your meeting he'd be at the office late sometimes. You knew he didn't have to but he'd swing by just to say hello, and one time he'd even brought you a burger from your favorite joint, which just so happened to be his as well.
There wasn't a whole lot you had in common, him being a scientist and you specializing in nursing and therapy. But you still managed to fill the time with conversations. He talked about his daughter, and you could easily tell he was proud of her. Regretfully he even informed you about his late wife. You were sympathetic, but also grateful that he felt so comfortable around you to talk about his life.
"Then why am I trying to pull away from him?"
Maybe it was a defense to protect yourself. Harrison could frankly get just about any woman he wanted. Wealth, intelligence and looks. He was a killer deal. That's what scared you. Right now you were just friends, but what would you do when you decided you wanted more. Did he even see you as a friend? Was that even allowed? At the end of the day he was still your boss.
"There goes my calm relaxing night."
You were trying so hard not to overwhelm yourself with the issue. As you round the corner, a figure standing at the bottom of your staircase catches your eyes. You tilt your head. The closer you got, the better you could make out just who it was. That baseball cap was a dead give away. Blue eyes brighten, and it makes your heart skip to have them directed at you.
"Hello (Y/N)."
What a wonderful turn of events.
~~~~
Inside your apartment nearly makes you feel cornered. There's no excuse you can create to leave, and it would be rude to just outright deny him entry. So now you're both standing in your kitchen.
"I wanted to have a word with you."
Shuffling nervously you grab a glass of water, sipping. He could feel your nerves from all the way across the room. Sighing, he took off his hat, attention now solely on you.
"I wanted to apologize for the other night. It wasn't my intention to make you uncomfortable. "
The last thing he wanted was for you to think he intended to use his authority to take advantage of you. What happened, looking back on it, to him, it fell under the lines of harassment.
"I wasn't uncomfortable, I'd never be that way. Not around you Harry." His eyes open a fraction and you trip over your words. Placing down the drink you ramble on.
"O-Oh my gosh I'm sorry! I have this stupid habit of giving people nicknames. I-It won't happen again I swear."
He's taken notice that it's fairly easy to get you flustered. Which is so cute to him.
"I'm glad, I really do enjoy your company." His statement warms your heart.
"So do I."
But you want more.
"You do.."
Wait what?
"I do what? " You ask hesitantly.
His eyes flicker to your lips, and you swallow. He moves closer, and with each step, your heart beats in rhythm. Now standing before you, everything stills.
"H-Harr-"
His palm rests on your cheek, and you close your eyes.
"What was I about to say.."
You forgot.
"I know this is unprofessional, but I do want more (Y/N)."
Why does he say your name like that?
"Curse your sexy voice Harrison Wells!!"
"I get the feeling that my interest isn't simply one-sided, am I right?" He strokes your cheek.
"So I'd like to give this a chance. Only if that's what you desire as well. " Your eyes flutter open, and you have to take a moment to gather your bearings.
"I-I do want more. B-But your my boss and I.." His thumb lands on your lower lip.
"Shh..let's not worry about that right now."
In a slow motion, his lips press to yours with such tenderness. You melt into him, and his free arm locks around your waist, pulling you closer.
There were definitely rules against fraternizing with your employer.
“Worry about it later."
You repeat. There is so much you feel right now. It's no secret that you've been dying to kiss him for quite a while.
You aren't the only one either. He parts for a brief moment, and then rejoins. This time around his tongue takes charge and you push at his dark jacket, trying to pry it off his body. Harrison gets the message. Freeing his hands to shimmy it down his arms. Once it's gone, your hands settle on his chest. Just as you thought, the guy's built. There a lot that suit hides. Your fingers venture to his back, and you slip them under the material. You can feel the shiver that runs through his body, and it makes you moan. This time when his lips disconnect, they immediately shift to your neck. You gasp as he moves along your skin.
"You smell heavenly.."
He sighs between kisses. Another moan leaves your lips when he grips at your hips. He nips at your skin, and you can feel the smirk that rises. You groan, because he's no longer giving you what you want. "Harry.." you whine.
"I'd very much like to continue this, but I believe dinner is in order. "
"W-We can always skip dinner."
Harrison can hardly hide his smile.
"We'll have a lot of opportunities to continue, there's no rush." He whispers into your ear. He knows exactly what he's doing.
"Meanie." you grumble. Your childish responses never fail to amuse him.
"I take full responsibility. " He says, pecking your lips.
Moi je m'en bats les reins, j'ai besoin d'un vrai djo
Il a vu mes copines, j'crois qu'il a flashé
J'suis pas ton plan B, t'as maté le fessier
J'réponds à tes appels, "tu crois que j'vais la fesser?"
Moi j'm'en bats les reins, j'ai besoin d'un vrai djo
Trop tard, trop tard
J'suis trop loin pour toi
Trop tard, trop tard
J'suis trop loin pour toi
Since you were no longer allowed to rock headphones, you needed to find another source of entertainment, so you thought, why not entertain yourself. Hence the reason behind your singing. Once again caught up in your own little work, you'd fail to detect the presence of Harrison.
"She has a nice voice."
Not just that, but you were singing in a different language. French he presumed. It was rude of him to just stand there without making himself known. He certainly didn't want a recap of the last time. But your voice was somewhat mesmerizing.
Mais qui est la plus bonne-bonne-bonne de mes copines?
Ah mes copines, ah mes copines
Mais tu veux la plus bonne-bonne-bomba-AH!
Your shriek alerted him that he was no longer unseen.
"S-Sir are you trying to give me a heart attack?" you accused. Harrison flashed a grin. At least this time you didn't try to sock him in the jaw.
"I apologize, even without those air pods you're not very good at observing your surroundings (Y/N)." It felt like he was teasing you, which just added to your embarrassment.
"My bad." you mutter. Harrison waved his hand.
"No need for that. It's not everyday I walk in on my workers singing in french. Quite a surprise." The redness of your cheeks increased tenfold. "I-I don't know French or anything like that. My friend is just really into music so she introduces me to all kinds. I really liked the sound of it so I kind of memorized the lyrics."
"What is the song about?"
Why did it feel like he was trying to make you turn all different shades of red today?
"W-Well it's about this girl who's dating a guy and she's not really sure if he's interested in her...or the friend." you finish bashfully. He stepped closer, and at this proximity you realized just how tall he really was. He was sort of towering over you.
You knew he wasn't trying to be intimidating, not in the least. But his eyes were telling a story and having him this close was doing crazy things to your heart.
"He must be quite a foolish man." He breathed. Eyes locked, you wondered if he was just as affected by you that you were by him. Deciding not to tempt faith, or your job, you take a step back.
"I uhh really have to get back to work." your hands were shaking slightly, which you hoped he didn't see.
Harrison got the message.
"Yes, I won't keep you." He bid you farewell, heading for the elevator. It was stupid to ruin such a moment, but at the back of your mind you couldn't help but feel like whatever this was, it shouldn't happen.
Harrison was a billionaire, you were a janitor/nurse struggling to put yourself through school. As the elevator dinged, you released the breath you'd been holding, leaning back on the wall.
"You're telling me he didn't bite your head off. Not even a little." you shake your head as you relay the story to your friends. Surprisingly your janitorial duties weren't the only part time you had under your belt. You took shifts as a nurse at a clinic nearby. Having just gotten off, you thought some unhealthy fast food at Big Belly Burgers was the end to a great night.
"I don't believe it. I mean he's handsome and all but my sister works there and she said he's a total prick. I wonder how his daughter deals with all that."
"He has a daughter?" She nods.
"Yeah she's like a teenager.
So that explains it. He was smiling because he must have been able to relate. The revelation that he liked kids made you smile too. He wasn't a douchebag like people claimed.
"I don't know, he was pretty charming to me. I don't think he's a bad guy. Probably just misunderstood."
"Misunderstood my ass." you grin. For a second she pauses in the line. There are just two people ahead of you, and since you've already ordered in ahead of time, you just have to pick up the food. Her eyes seemed focused on her phone. "Everything okay?" She shakes her head.
"I gotta go, little sister got wasted again." she grips her bag, sending you a smile as she takes off.
"B-But what about your burger?"
"You can have it!!"
Just like that she's out the door.
"Next!" you step forward, showing the receipt. The woman at the back scans it, heading to pick up both orders. You now have an extra burger to look forward to. As you move closer the man in front of you walks off, black cap lowered to the point that you barely make out his face. He nudges your shoulder lightly and you're about to apologize but he reaches over to steady you with an apology of his own. As you straighten, you open your mouth to extend your gratitude. The moment you make contact, your eyes widen. The man is wearing a similar look of surprise.
"S-Sir?" He grimaces at the formal tone.
"Order up!" you jump back into action upon realizing that your little hallmark moment is holding up the line. Turning to grab your food, you thank the cashier. Harrison is still standing there as you turn around, and internally you kind of hoped he'd leave because this is just too weird.
"It appears we have a knack for running into each other."
With a sheepish smile you start to make your way out of the restaurant and Harrison follows.
"I can't say that I expected to see you here." he opens the door for you, and you nod, stepping out as he follows.
"S-Sir I-"
"We're not in the office, there's no need for such formalities. Harrison is fine." you gulp. This was just getting weirder by the second.
"H-Harrison. If you don't mind me asking, why are you dressed like that?" you gesture to his attire. He's wearing all black. Jacket, t-shirt and pants. On his head is a baseball cap that completes the look. Glasses still perched on his nose.
"It becomes a bit tedious when you're being stopped regularly for a photo or autograph. This attire helps me blend in nicely with all you regular minded people. " His tone is condescending, and you sort of see now where the rumor of him being a dick arises from. Pure facts.
"I didn't plan for my cover to be blown by my janitor who is apparently freelancing as a nurse." he eyes your scrubs, and you flush.
"O-Oh well yes I am a nurse b-but not full time or anything. " He raises an eyebrow.
"Care to explain." Your boss walking you back to your apartment was the last thing on your list tonight. By the intrigued look on his face you know he's not going to let up until you explain.
"I'm studying to be a physiotherapist. Ever since I was in middle school I've wanted to do this. I was obsessed with sports and healing so I kind of thought I'd gravitate to that. My parents though are both doctors. They wanted me to follow in their footsteps so I became a nurse, but I wasn't happy, so I left."
Harrison is listening intently, and you actually feel at ease talking to him, an absolute stranger about your background story.
"I needed to start somewhere, and since I basically ran away from them I had no money or means to support myself so I applied to be a nurse part time to help pay the bills while I did the day classes. Even with that job I was still struggling to make rent, so I went searching for another job and that's when I saw your ad in the paper." you smile up at him, and Harrison's eyes linger on the look of gratitude you're now wearing. He's confused because he's positive he has nothing to do with it.
"That job kind of saved me, so I guess I have you to thank for that. Also for not firing me that night when I almost sucker punched you."
He can't help but smile back at you. He's never been much of a people's person. Yet he doesn't really mind chatting with you. Another thing that struck him was his patience that day. Usually it takes very little to get him heated, and an employee going mortal kombat on him was an easy peeve. But somehow he couldn't find it in himself to even yell at you for your mistake. He comforted you instead. Totally unlike him.
"Now I'm walking her home as if we've known each other forever. "
You've stopped walking, and now you're just looking at him. It unnerves him, the way your eyes peer curiously in his direction.
"What?"
"This is my stop." He wants to smack himself. How long was he just standing there staring at you like a creep.
"Have a good night." He responds gruffly.
"You too. Thank you for the company Si- I-I mean Harrison." you correct. Your cheeks color, and it urges a smile from him.
"You're welcome. " It's said so kindly. When you open your door, you sort of want to just stay there and talk with him some more, but that would certainly cross the line of your working relationship, so you settle for a small wave, closing the door. As you get inside, you lean on the door with the biggest smile.
"He really is a charmer."
That smile, those eyes, even behind glasses they had you in a daze.
Then it dawns on you. "Oh crap." Back at the food joint, he was in front of you the entire time. That means he definitely heard the conversation you had with your friend.
When you took the job at STAR Labs, it was just a means to pay for your tuition. You were in sports development. Your long term goal was to become a physiotherapist, and unfortunately that meant you had to take a few classes that really had nothing to do with your bachelors, yet they felt it necessary to put it on the curriculum. The only reason you'd taken this night job was because the pay was great.
With the checks you'd obtained at the end of the month, you could probably pay for the rest of your year, not to mention your living expenses. The hours weren't exactly the best, but you expected nothing less from this high end establishment. You sort of didn't mind either because it was completely quiet at night which allowed you not only a chance to clean but also time to study. With your works recorded, you could mop the floors and keep your perfect GPA. All in all, it was the perfect package.
Tonight was like most, you were moping one of the floors of the building, listening to your latest chapter on treatment. With every area that you cleaned, you moved to the next room, humming sometimes. So immersed in your little world you'd fail to see the dark haired male standing in behind you, decked down in a suit.
"I'd appreciate it if I could get back into my office."
You made no move to get out of the way, and Harry's frown deepened. Were you intentionally ignoring him? It's only when he glances to the side he notices the white air pods in your ears.
"Of course."
He cursed the wretched soul that thought making those things was a good idea. Clever, but also pretty annoying in his case. This was possibly the tenth person this week he had to repeat himself around because of those.
You leaned the mob on the side, raising to grab a cloth. The figure you saw behind you made you panic. Without a second thought you swung around to deliver a punch on your assailant. Said person caught your fist. As soon as you made eye contact you wanted to swallow your tongue.
"S-Sir, doctor, Mr umm I-I umm..."
You had no idea what to say to make this experience less awkward. As far as first impressions went, this was quite literally the worst. You pulled back your hand frantically, taking your airpods and shoving them into your pocket. "I-I'm so sorry you scared me Sir. Please don't fire me, I-I'll work for the rest of the week no pay! Please!" Of all the ways you thought you'd meet the notorious Harrison Wells, pleading for your job was not one of them.
"Calm down, I'm not a monster." You settled for a second, not quite sure what to say. From the rumors you'd heard around many people would beg to differ. Even a few of your peers had laid out experiences where they'd met the self made millionaire. From the sound of it he wasn't a nice person.
He appeared to be observing you now. Being under the scrutinizing sapphire gaze really didn't help with your nerves. "I don't recall you being a part of my staff. Where is Mr. Diaz?"
"O-Oh, well I was told his wife just had a kid so he's gonna be a stay at home dad. I guess that's how they had an open position so I got it. " Recognition flashed through his eyes, and he adjusted his glasses.
"That's right, a baby girl, how could I forget." You could have been wrong, but you saw a ghost of a smile appear. "Yeah.." you mutter. After his little moment he cleared his throat. "Be more careful while you're on the job. Someone could have gotten hurt." you nodded frantically. "Y-Yes sir it won't happen again." There goes your monthly study plan.
"You should get back to work."
Rushing to move the mop and get out of his way you scrambled.
"Of course! Sorry for the inconvenience ."
Harrison carried on his way to the office, and you lowered your eyes, for basically making a complete fool of yourself.
"By the way, nice reflexes (Y/N)." you looked up, and he was smirking, right before he closed the door.
"That did not just happen."
It did, but right now your brain needs time to process the events.
"W-Wait how did he know my name!" You were about to go hysterical, until you noticed the print on your jumpsuit.
