Page 34 of Grumpy Orc CEO

As we part ways at the office, I find myself looking back at him one last time before stepping inside. His confident stride and easy smile make my heart skip a beat. He turns slightly and catches my eye, giving me a quick wink that makes me laugh despite myself.

Sitting down at my desk, I reflect on how much things have changed since our initial meeting at the airport. Jarvin has added a new dimension to my life—one filled with warmth, laughter, and genuine connection. My feelings for him are growing stronger each day, and while it scares me to admit it, it also fills me with hope.

I look forward to what each new day brings with him by my side.

CHAPTER 19

Jarvin

Iwatch Lucy across the table, the midday sun casting a warm glow on her face. It’s been some time now, and our lunches have become a highlight of my day, and the more routine they've become, the more Lucy and I seem to be growing closer.

She's opened up more, sharing about her family and her life, and this job being a fresh start for her. And I hang on to every word. I want to know everything about her.

"You know," I begin, leaning forward slightly, "I really admire how you handle your job. You’re the best secretary I’ve had."

Lucy looks up from her salad, a smile playing on her lips. A hint of a blush creeps up her cheeks. “Well, I wouldn’t exactly call knocking your nameplate off your desk on the first day a hard skill,” she says with a laugh.

Her laughter is contagious, and I find myself chuckling along. "I think that was more endearing than anything else," I say with fond remembrance of the day she walked back into my life.

She smiles wider, clearly appreciative but not overwhelmed by my words. It’s easier to enjoy our time outside the constraints of the office. The comfortability I feel around her is something I’ve never experienced with anyone.

"You've come a long way since then," I continue, my tone sincere. "You're doing an incredible job here. Seriously. Every day, you keep raising the bar."

Her eyes soften as she meets my gaze. "Thank you, Jarvin. That really means a lot." Something passes between us as I hold her gaze, smiling as she shyly looks away. Lucy glances at her watch and sighs. "Back to the grind soon."

"Yeah," I say, reluctantly checking the time. "But these lunches are a nice break."

She nods in agreement, gathering her things. "They really are." She smiles at me as I stand from the table.

As we leave, I hold the door open for her, loving the way her body brushes against me. She gives me a grateful smile, and for a moment, our eyes lock in silent understanding. The connection is undeniable.

Back at the office, I can't help but replay our conversation in my mind. Each compliment and shared moment feels like progress. I return to my desk with renewed focus, ready to tackle the afternoon's challenges with Lucy's smile lingering in my thoughts.

The next day, I sit across from Lucy, my eyes focused on her animated expression as she discusses a new book she read. Her passion is contagious, and I find myself hanging on every word.

"It’s fascinating how the author delves into the characters’ psyches," she says, her green eyes sparkling with enthusiasm. "It’s like peeling back layers of an onion, revealing more with each chapter."

I nod, genuinely intrigued by her insights. "You have a real knack for seeing beyond the surface, Lucy. It’s one of the things I admire about you."

She looks up, a flicker of warmth appreciation in her eyes. "Thank you Jarvin. You’re not so bad yourself,” she says, breaking the tension and making us both laugh.

We settle into a comfortable rhythm, discussing the book's themes and characters. Lucy seems more at ease now that we've been spending more time together. Our conversation flows naturally and there’s never a lull. These breaks are filled with banter and laughter and meaningful conversations.

"You know," she says thoughtfully, "I think part of why I loved this book so much is because it reminded me of my own journey—finding myself again after everything that happened."

I nod, appreciating her willingness to open up. "I can see that. From what you've told me, you’ve been through a lot and come out stronger for it."

She smiles softly, appreciation dancing in her eyes. "Yeah, I guess I have." The warmth between us grows, and I can feel it. That pull, that attraction to her. Everything about her makes me like her more and more. And the more she lets me in, the more certain I am that she's something special.

As we sit in our usual spot by the window, I get a notification on my phone, my chest squeezing at the unexpectedness. It's a picture of my brother and I from this day six years ago. I let out a sigh, trying not to spoil the mood.

She looks up from her salad, curiosity and concern mingling in her vibrant green eyes. "What is it, Jarvin?"

I take another breath, steadying myself. "Just a memory on my phone," I say with a smile.

Falling back into grief isn't something I wanted to do today. But I also realize, if I want her to be open with me, I'm going to have to take the leap and meet her there.

When I look up, she’s looking at me. Her eyes hold me, with something resembling concern, empathy.