Ayla's POV
The moment we stepped into Lumina Tech together, it felt like every pair of eyes had turned to glass, I received sharp stares . I'd been here before, sat at that desk by his office door, shuffled through paperwork like any other employee . But this time was different.
This time, I wasn't just the secretary.
I was his fiancée.
The whispers followed us in like shadows.
"Is that Ayla?"
"The secretary?"
"So it's true, she's with him."
"I didn't think he'd ever bring someone here like that"
"They actually look close."
I tried not to let the words cling to me, but they did. Every syllable stuck to my skin, reminding me that I didn't belong. My fingers curled tight around my bag, but I kept my chin up, just like Mrs. Graves had drilled me, I straightened my shoulder, and smiled softly.
Beside me, Liam slowed his stride, just enough for me to walk level with him.
We reached the top floor, where the stares were fewer, but the air still felt heavy.
I slipped into my office, closing the door behind me, hoping to escape. My hands shook slightly as I shut the blinds, wanting to hide from all of them. I didn't want to see anyone.
But I couldn't avoid the cafeteria forever. By noon, hunger forced me to grab my tray and step out. The moment I entered, I froze. The words were low, but I caught them.
"She thinks she belongs here?"
"She's just a secretary."
"She got the job because of him."
Every word dug under my skin. My hands curled around the edge of the table, knuckles white. I wanted to shrink, melt into the floor, and vanish. I was about to turn and leave when a shadow fell across the table.
Mr Cross.
He carried two trays, his movements were calm and steady. He didn't speak at first, just set mine in front of me. His fingers brushed mine briefly. Just that small touch, but it made my chest squeeze in relief.
He pulled out the chair opposite me and sat down. The cafeteria went quiet, the whispers died, eyes were on us. Even the loudest gossipers fell silent without a word from him. His presence alone was enough.
I picked at my food slowly, trying not to breathe too loudly. Some of the staff dared whisper again, just enough for me to hear.
"He is sitting with her?"
"The rumor must be true"
He leaned forward just a little and nudged my hand with the back of his fingers. That small, silent gesture said everything.
I let out a small breath I hadn't realized I was holding. Just being here with him, under his quiet protection, made me feel lighter.
The lunch continued in silence, but it was comfortable, not awkward. He ate slowly, but kept an eye on me, occasionally letting his gaze brush over me. I noticed the faint curve of his jaw when he tilted his head to glance around, making sure no one dared to speak out again. I didn't need him to say anything, I didn't want him to. I just needed him there.
A few whispers tried to start again. Someone murmured about how I wasn't his "type," how I didn't belong, how lucky I was to be here.
I stiffened, ready to shrink away again.
But he didn't flinch. He didn't even blink. He picked up his fork and tilted his head toward the person whispering, just a subtle look. That was all it took. The whispers died instantly.
When he glanced back at me, there was a tiny, almost invisible nod, like he was letting me know, you don't have to fight this alone.
I felt a warmth spread in my chest. Relief, gratitude, something heavier I couldn't quite name. Just knowing he was here for me made the room less cold. Made the eyes less sharp.
After lunch, he helped me gather my tray. He didn't say a word, just walked beside me as we returned to my office. I followed, careful to match his pace, to stay close, to feel safe.
"Thank you" I said softly as we approached our offices
"You need to learn how to not let their words get to you," he said, and went into his office.
I continued with the days work and was getting ready to go home when a call from Ema came in
I hesitated, but answered.
Her voice was sweet, fake-sweet. "Well, well, Ayla. You're famous now. Do you know how many videos of you and Liam are online already? You should see the comments. Everyone's wondering how a plain little secretary managed to snag him. Honestly it's hilarious."
Her laugh was dripping with jealousy.
I gripped the phone tighter, biting my lip. She didn't stop.
"Tell me, what's it like living in his house? Or did he set you up in some fancy apartment? Do you really share his bed, or is that just for show too?"
Her words cut deep, but I forced my voice steady. "Goodbye, Ema." And I hung up before she could say more.
My chest trembled, but not from her. Not really. Because no matter how sharp her words were, I kept thinking of lunch, of him sitting across from me, the way he silenced a room without a single word.
And for the first time in a long time, I didn't feel completely alone.