On her first day at Sinclair Group, Chloe was instantly struck by how focused and professional the atmosphere was. The employees moved with purpose, rarely stopping for idle chatter. Everyone was dressed impeccably, and the environment felt like a well-oiled machine operating with precision.
She had worried she wouldn't fit in, but her concerns eased as soon as she met her new supervisor.
Ms. Yuko was a tall, poised woman with years of experience behind her and a calm but approachable demeanor. Despite her elegance, she greeted Chloe warmly and took time to show her around the department. Her guidance was clear, and her expectations firm, but not overwhelming. Chloe felt lucky to have landed under her wing.
During her lunch break, while seated in the quiet staff lounge with her meal tray, her phone buzzed unexpectedly.
It was a message from Ryan.
Ryan: How's your first day going?
Chloe blinked, surprised. She hadn't expected him to reach out. Smiling, she quickly typed a reply.
Chloe: So far, so good! Ms. Yuko is a great boss.
A moment later, another message came in.
Ryan: Glad to hear it. Let's have dinner tonight.
Chloe's fingers hovered over the screen. She hadn't anticipated Ryan being so proactive, but she couldn't deny her excitement.
Chloe: I'd love that.
From that moment on, the clock seemed to slow down. She found herself glancing at the time every few minutes, eager for the end of the workday. When it finally arrived, she packed up and made her way to the restaurant where they had agreed to meet.
Dinner was cozy and relaxed. They shared a quiet corner booth, and Chloe recounted the highlights of her first day such as the new software, the quick pace, and how Ms. Yuko's mentorship gave her confidence.
Afterward, they walked together toward Ryan's car under the soft glow of the city lights.
Feeling emboldened by the evening, Chloe glanced at him and asked, "Ryan, before our engagement… had you ever liked anyone before?"
Ryan gave a small shake of his head. "No."
She blinked. "Have you ever dated anyone?"
"Also no."
Chloe stared at him in disbelief. "Really? Not even once?"
"No," he replied, matter-of-fact.
She was genuinely shocked. "How is that even possible? You're smart, successful, and look at you."
Ryan turned toward her, resting his hand on the car beside her. His other arm hovered near her, creating a soft cage between them. She took a step back instinctively, only to find her back against the car.
He leaned slightly closer, his gaze steady.
"What's wrong? You don't believe me?" he asked, voice low.
"No… it's just hard to believe," she murmured.
"You've never really dated either, have you?" he countered.
Chloe hesitated. "That's different. Don't you know how amazing you are? I'm just an ordinary woman."
Ryan didn't blink. "Chloe, even though we just met, I think you're great."
Chloe's breath caught in her throat. Her heart skipped a beat as warmth rushed to her cheeks. She didn't know how to respond, so she simply smiled, bashful under his steady gaze.
Ryan drove Chloe home after dinner. As they pulled into the driveway of her apartment building, her eyes widened in surprise.
Leo was standing outside, his arms crossed, face tight with emotion.
Even without introductions, Ryan could guess who he was.
Ryan parked and both got out of the car.
"Leo?" Chloe said cautiously.
"Chloe, finally. I've been trying to call you. There's so much I want to say," Leo said urgently. He stepped forward and grabbed her wrist.
Ryan moved swiftly and stopped him.
"Who is this guy, Chloe?" Leo looked at Ryan annoyingly.
Chloe looked at Leo, then at Ryan, and took a breath. "I told you when I handed in my resignation. I'm engaged. He's my fiancé."
Leo scoffed. "I thought you were joking. I thought you were just trying to get my attention."
"It's true," Ryan said, his voice calm but firm. "I'm Chloe's fiancé."
Leo ignored him and turned to Chloe. "Chloe, let's go inside and talk."
Chloe froze. How could she go inside alone with Leo in front of Ryan?
But Ryan remained composed. "It's okay. Let's all go inside and talk."
Inside, Chloe quickly poured drinks and served them, trying to mask her discomfort. All three sat down on the couch, tension thick in the air.
"Chloe, you've only been gone a few days, but the office is a mess without you," Leo began.
She stared at him, unimpressed. "So why are you here? I already made myself clear."
Leo leaned forward, desperate. "Please come back. I know you had feelings for me for years. I need you."
He reached for her wrist again. His grip was tight.
"I've started a new job and moved on." Chloe tried to pull away, but his grip didn't loosen.
"She said no," Ryan said, rising to his feet. He walked over and pulled Chloe gently but firmly to his side. "Please leave."
Leo stood, furious. But after a long pause, he sighed, dropped his hand, and stormed out without another word.
Ryan turned to Chloe. "Are you okay?"
She nodded, though her wrist was red where Leo had gripped her. Ryan gently took her hand and examined it, his thumb brushing over her skin.
Chloe's face turned red. It was the first time he had touched her like this. His hands were warm and steady, and for the first time, she felt protected.
"I'm fine," she whispered.
Ryan looked into her eyes, then stepped back. "Get some rest. I'm heading home."
"Drive safe. Let me know when you get home," she said softly.
"I will."
As the door closed behind him, Chloe stood in silence, her heart still pounding from Ryan's gentle and intimate touch.