'The best relationships usually begin unexpectedly.'
***
Drew's POV
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Everything was running fast like a clock when it came to Monde. I'm glad I had the right people in these jobs. Xavion managed the rest during my absence, and now that I am back, the pile of paperwork has made me like a prisoner for two days. I'm glad that it was all sorted out.
"How did it go? I saw you with someone two nights ago. Who is she?" Xavion asked in the line.
I grinned with mischief as I fixed the button on my polo shirt before answering him. "My new secretary."
"Your —what? Where's Amalia?"
"She's on a holiday for two months. Her sister, Beauty Acuesta, will cover for two months." A thin smile crept onto my face when I received all her details the other day.
I was ready to forget about her because of work, but her exquisite lips and addictive scent lingered in my nostrils. It's weird because it hasn't happened to me since, and her name, Beauty, suits her perfectly.
I didn't expect that Beauty would be my temporary secretary. I only got her information yesterday from Amalia. She emailed me as I asked for it, and I promised Amalia not to disturb her while she was on holiday.
"Beauty, such a beautiful name. I hope she's clever like her sister and not just beautiful." Xavion chuckled in the line, and I slightly shook my head. I have a terrible feeling that this Beauty is stubborn. I hope she's not.
"Amalia is pretty and clever. Beauty is the same, but she's more like a goddess to me. Anyway, have fun on your first day. Your father just got out of the country. He will be in Sorrento soon. I will update you."
"Thank you, Xav. I'll catch up with you soon. Bye."
Clint acted as my driver today as Mr. Ben is sick. Everyone bowed halfway as soon as I entered Monde Corporation. My forehead creased when I saw a few unfinished designs in the hallway, and the staff felt the weight on their shoulders when I looked at every one of them. I thought Mrs. Green, the head of the ground department, had made this all up. Coming here unannounced made the difference. I will surely grill them up.
And the moment I entered my office, a disappointment greeted me. She's not on her table. She's late!
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Beauty's POV
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I almost tripped over while running fast. I overslept because my alarm didn't turn on. I was sure I set it up last night. But heck, look at me now. I am late!
The moment I arrived at the Monde building, I hurriedly ran inside.
Marie waved at me, wanting to say something, but I ignored her. I quickly enter the lift, run my fingers through my hair, and compose myself. Luckily, the side mirror provides a more precise reflection of me, and my make-up is okay.
"Beauty!"
Bobita's voice immediately greeted me after exiting the lift. The panic on his face was apparent. There seems to be tension in the office as everyone is standing at their desks as if they are being punished.
"What happened? Why is everyone standing?"
As Bobita held my hand, I noticed it felt cold, making me realize he was nervous.
"The dragon is furious. Oh my God! I have been waiting for you, young lady!" Bobita tightly squeezes my hand and gazes at me with a severe expression.
I surveyed the quiet crowd with their eyes fixed on me. The tension in the air answers only one thing. The dragon is not happy.
"Come here, Beauty. I know this is your first time meeting Mr. DJM." Bobita fixed my hair and top.
"Mr. DJM was looking for you." He pulled my body with him, and we walked towards the office.
Mr. DJM's office and my table are in the same area. My desk was positioned outside Mr. DJM's office door. He can see me sitting at my table when his office door opens. The intercom provides a relay communication between his office and mine.
"Now, go and do your best. Keep your sister's position, okay? Fighting!" Bobita pushed me inside, and I immediately felt nervous.
Dang it. Why do I feel like it will be the end of my work now? It seems like this will be my last day in this company. Oh, God. I hope not.
Bobita sprinted, and he was no longer behind me.
Thank goodness, Mr. DJM's door was shut when I entered the room. I smiled, looking at my table and walking towards it. I put my little bag on top of the table, and there was a little note beside it.
'You are late. Get inside.'
-DJM-
I felt like my heart would pop out of my chest. I can't control it. My day is about to end at this moment. My heart raced fast when I stood before his office door. I swallowed my saliva, and I couldn't think straight. Should I go straight ahead or knock on his door?
I carefully raised my right hand and slowly knocked before opening the door.
The truth is, I have been struggling to come up with a valid excuse for my tardiness. Oh dear, what can I do? Come what May, I can do this.
"G-Good morning, Sir, "I stuttered, losing my soul now as it came out of my body quickly and came back again.
The fiery sensation crawled inside me, gripping my heart and leaving me frozen. I can only see his back as he gazes at the stunning view from this spot.
Monde Corporation's skyscraper has fifty floors, and the top floor provides an expansive city view.
I waited for him to turn and face me, taking a deep breath as my knees wobbled. My sister's boss is intimidating. He is not a typical boss for me. He doesn't look old like what I heard from gossip. His back looks stern.
My God, please help me. I hope I can handle him. He cleared his throat, and I swallowed hard.
When he turned to see me, my jaw partially dropped.
What the heck! My mouth parted when our eyes locked.
Is he my sister's boss? The CEO and owner of Monde Corporation? Oh my goodness!
The mighty Drew Mondragon, the person I kissed at the bar? It's him! He is also the reason why I am late today.
My eyes widened like I'd seen a ghost in him. I shut my eyes quickly, trying to clear my vision, but it was all the same no matter how much I tried to clear everything. It was him!
I couldn't believe it! Is this for real?
My heart skipped a beat as a faint, crooked smile formed on his lips. My face flushed, and I could no longer smile.
Dear heavens, I wish the ground would open up and swallow me whole right now!
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c.m. loud
Ninety percent of true love is acute - ear burning, embarrassment.***Beauty's POV.I could no longer put my best smile on, and I could no longer open my mouth. No matter how hard I try to speak, my tongue just retracts. He slightly frowned as he watched me and smiled a little bit—his index finger sliding on the table, playing like a piano, checking for dust."Beauty Acuesta," in his deep baritone voice.I composed myself once more and bit my inside cheek as we stared. I felt like melting at this moment. There was a dominant demand in how he looked at me, and I swallowed hard."Tell the heads for a meeting resume in thirty minutes," he calmly said.Meeting Resume? Have they started already without me? Is that why all the staff stood at their desk when I arrived? Oh, God, I'm doomed!"Y-Yes, Sir." I stammered and looked away, avoiding his gaze. I spun around to exit the room, but he called my name before I could reach the door."Hang on, Beauty.""Yes, sir!" I respond promptly, turni
Believe in yourself a little bit more. *** Beauty's POV . Drew has a perfectly toned masculine physique that is quite impressive. I felt the tingling sensations crawl on me when I remembered our kiss. I shook my head slightly, attempting to clear my mind. Drew Mondragon has a reputation for maintaining a professional relationship with all his employees, so I was relieved he didn't bring up the incident. I must remind myself that he is my boss here, and I'm just nothing. With a snap of his fingers, he can quickly fire me. "Is that the best you can present? Do you want this company to disseminate?" Disseminate? I looked straight at Bobita and the rest of the head management. Their heads dipped halfway, avoiding eye contact with him. Drew Mondragon is not happy. I kept clicking the laptop's keyboard without a sentence. I am figuring out what to write. I was only away for six months, and the company is struggling. What kind of leadership do we have? Is this all you can do?" Drew
'Love is reckless, not reason. Reason seeks a profit.'***Beauty's POV.The food we ordered was served, and we began to eat. I was hungry, alright, but my first bite took a turn inside my stomach.I can't chew my food properly, and I'm having indigestion already. It's awkward, pretending not to know each other, and it's killing me. I hope today is not my last day.We've been so quiet eating, and the only noise I could hear was him clearing his throat now and then. I drank my water, trying to ease the tension I felt inside.Oh God, I want this to end. Come on, Universe, do me a favor, please. Take me out of here!I swallowed hard again, and Drew cleared his throat, dabbing his lips with a tissue before speaking."I want you to call me by my name when we're alone, Beauty," he said formally.Confused at what he meant by that, I raised my head to meet his gaze."What do you mean, Sir?" I blinked."I have a name, Beauty."Drew's jaw tightened as we both continued to stare at each other.
I like you even though you annoy me more than I ever thought possible. But I want to spend every irritating minute with you.***Beauty's POV.As soon as I arrived home, I carelessly tossed my sling bag onto the couch.Who wouldn't get annoyed with my situation?Mr. Drew Mondragon returned half of the paperwork to me earlier, asking me to revise it.Darn him!That was a week of work for me. How come he couldn't understand anything? Is he doing this on purpose? I bet he is.If only I weren't late today, he'd probably be a little bit gentle with me about this. But no, not! He is a Mondragon, a closer cousin to a 'dragon'; cunning, vicious, temperament, sly, and extremely dangerous.I stopped pacing, now looking at the thick pile of papers. How am I going to finish this all overnight? Oh, God help me."Hello, Beauty? How's everything, my beautiful sister?" my sister Amalia asked in the line.I twisted my lips, and my shoulder deflated. I sat on the comfortable chair and raised both of m
I had to touch you with my hands. I had to taste you with my tongue. One can't love and do nothing. *** Beauty's POV . After a few hours, the janitor knocked on the open door and entered the room. I had no smile when I looked at him as I was battling to finish the revision. He nodded halfway and smiled at me. While carrying cleaning tools, he never spoke and only raised his hands slightly. I gave him a nod and returned to my work. I can occasionally hear the janitor moving around. His cleaning is limited to the area before my desk. He is prohibited from entering the CEO's office. The office is off-limits to everyone except me. That's why it has become my sister's job to clean her boss's office, and now it has become mine. I stood up after an hour to get the reports on the side but couldn't reach the desired number in the filing cabinet towering to the ceiling. I looked around me. I thought I saw a stool the other day, and I used it to reach some files that were out of my reach.
"It means purity and holiness, Beauty, and at the same time jealousy and infidelity." -Drew James Mondragon- . Beauty's POV . I got so busy after returning and continued what I had to do. When I returned to my desk, Drew Mondragon was nowhere to be found, and I felt relieved. Now, I'm wearing a full-body suit to ensure that no part of my skin is visible. I paused when I heard someone clearing a throat behind me. He almost rested his chin on my shoulder, looking at the monitor and all the papers in my hand. "Yes, Bobita? Anything I can do to help you?" I sighed and didn't look at him. I'm on the last page after four hours and can't wait to finish this. I spun my swivel chair, yawned, and stretched my arms to face him. But my jaw dislocated on my mouth the moment I saw his face. It was not Bobita, but the mighty Drew Mondragon was now in front of me. Oh, heck! I closed my mouth, pressed my lips together, and held my breath for barely ten seconds. Our eyes locked, and I saw the
Drew's POV."Hi, Mom. How are you? I hope you're doing well," I clenched my teeth tightly, attempting to suppress my emotions.For a reason, I felt comfortable taking Beauty with me. There's something about her that captivates me. I don’t know how to explain this. I'm still in the process of trying to figure out my true feelings towards her.I couldn't let go of her even that night. The next day, I tried to get her information, but to my surprise, her profile landed on my desk as the substitute secretary, Amalia's sister.She looked so damn stunning and alluring every day. She became more and more beautiful every time I saw her. I could stare at her forever, and I would never get tired.From inside my office, she was unaware that the electric blinds were built with advanced technology, allowing me to see her every movement.Dammit. I could not deny my feelings. I'm captivated and fascinated by her. She's a goddess in every sense of the word to me, even though she's messy regarding pa
Anyone can catch your eye, but it takes someone special to catch your heart. *** Beauty's POV . "Thank you, Bobita! This is my dream, and I can't wait to ramp on stage together with the models," I exclaimed in the line. It's an honor that Bobita wanted me to be on his team. "I have to ask your boss permission first, okay? I can't just pull you out from him. I have to ask the dragon." He rawr and I laughed. "Sure! I'm sure my boss will agree to this. Thank you, Bobita! I will see you tomorrow," I said, ending the call. I jumped and danced around with joy. This is a rare opportunity for me. To ramp up the stage, carrying different brands of Monde Corporations is an ample opportunity for me. This is the beginning of my dream. THE morning comes. I arrived at the office very early. I cleaned up Drew's office, making sure that everything was fine. Today, Drew will be back from his out of town, and for a silly reason, I kind of miss him. It was eleven o'clock when I decided to see B
Special Chapter "One, two, three, pose. Good job, Beauty! One more round." I watch her quietly while drinking my coffee. She smiles in my direction, and my heart melts how beautiful my lovely wife is. . .my Beauty. I'm attempting to concentrate on the reports Amalia handed me this morning, but I found my gaze returning to my wife. She's seven months pregnant now, and she still looks very sexy to me. I was considering terminating her contract with Atticus at Monde Fashion because she's pregnant and gets tired quickly, but Atticus refused to let her go, so I let her do what she likes. A lot of companies want Beauty as their endorsement, especially now that she's pregnant. Our wedding was simple, and it happened privately. It was solemn as we celebrated it with our families. Beauty wanted it that way, and I was happy as long as she was. We even went to Italy and Paris together for our honeymoon and stayed two months over there. From there, she experienced a life living outside the
The Interview . "Relax, everything will be fine," I said, brushing my thumb on her lips. She looked nervous, and I could sense it. "I'm worried," she sighed. "Is my dress okay?" I slightly chuckled and sweetly nodded. "You are beautiful, Beauty. Perfect as it can be." I looked at her from head to toe while biting my lower lip. I am a proud husband-to-be, and like Beauty, I have many insecurities. I'm insecure because I don't know if I am enough for her. I don't know if I'm doing the right thing, but I guess I am. She has no complaints about everything and just goes with the flow. I want to hold her and cover her against the eyes of many, but I know she will never like that. "You are the most beautiful woman on Earth, darling. Trust me," I winked, acting cute and sexy. She laughed. "You and your moves." She quickly looped her arms around my neck and brought her body against mine. She rubbed our noses together, which alone ignited the whole of me. "I want to eat you," I whispered
Beauty’s POV . “And where are you taking me, Drew?” “We’re nearly there.” I giggle with excitement, and our hands remain entwined. Drew’s other hand holds the steering wheel while the other grasps mine. I called my sister earlier, letting her know I am with Drew and will probably be late or I will be staying at Drew’s place. Either way, she’s okay with that and is happy for me. She saw what happened earlier as it was live on TV. “Are you mad?” I looked at him thoughtfully. “Do I look like I was angry?” He smiled. It was only quick. The whole country knows now about us, and I will no longer go to Paris. He doesn’t seem unhappy with that. I was just making sure that he is not. “Do you like me that much?” he teased, his eyes beamed. “Uhm, I like you the way how you like me,” I winked wickedly. He chuckled and kissed my hand. “I love you, darling.” “And I love you more,” I responded. It took us an hour, and my eyes are weary now. But when my eyes gave up, Drew announced we ar
Beauty's Pov.I felt shy and didn't speak much while eating gently beside Drew. Everyone at the table ate quietly, with only the sound of utensils breaking the silence being all you could hear.Sitting across me is Skye, the wife of Liam, Drew's brother. Between them is their son, Logan, and beside Logan is their youngest, Amber. The little boy Logan caught my attention with his constant smile, especially when he was with his grandfather. Both kids are adorable.After the sweet confession, Drew and I quickly left the place with his family. It was a rush, and the reporters had many questions, but Drew never answered them. We walked past them.I was just thankful that Drew's family seemed okay with what happened right after that. His father remained calm and didn't utter a single word.Logan walked over to his grandfather, who was seated on the edge of the table. It is a reminder that Drew's father was the head of the household."Nonno, voglio sedermi accanto a 'te," Logan smiled, and
Beauty's POV.Holding the folder that contains all the reports, I exited the building comfortably.Vincent held the car door open for me, and I slid onto the leather seat before buckling my seatbelt. We have to drive for another five minutes, and then we will reach our destination.I composed myself when I stepped out and cleared my throat when I entered the building. I followed my sister's instructions for me to be able to get inside the place.It is a secluded venue exclusively reserved for the gatherings of high-profile individuals. The reporters and media personnel are present, as indicated by the cars outside and Vincent's earlier message."Thank you, Miss," I said to the lady at the information desk. She gave me a visitor's ID for entry.One of the security in-charge accompanied me all the way to where the venue was located. I smiled at him, and he formally smiled back. He never said a word, and we were quiet until we arrived on the right level.The moment the elevator opens, t
My love for you comes with a lifetime guarantee..Beauty's POV."Are you sure about this?" Ceilo looked at me seriously."Yes," I nodded without regrets. It felt good to be on the right track in my life.This morning, I woke up feeling complete. This is the best feeling I have had so far, after so long. I always have my worries with me before, and I don't look forward to my day. My mind is busy thinking of other things, including modeling, Drew's family, and my own family.It seemed like I was walking in a path like a robot with a clear direction but without a heart. I wasn't happy.*(conversation I had with Atticus the other day)"Are you sure you will not regret this, Beauty?""Yes, Atticus. I will not. I contemplated a lot and thought not just once but more than a hundred times. And my decision is final, Art."He shook his head slightly and smiled at me. "Beauty, true happiness, and contentment come from within. If you have found that, then nothing more is needed. If this is you
Drew's POV.Damn this. When are they going to stop this nonsense?I heaved a sigh after reading the articles online. I barely had any time to have my coffee as the business in Greece was facing inclination.Xavion has to fly there to check the conspiracy. A few people on the board of directors are doing the pullouts, giving a scare to the rest of the investors.I've been receiving calls for the meeting since last night. I didn't have a drop of sleep as I also took care of the annual year-end financial scheme of the El Monde Towers. My father is crushing me to the bones, manipulating the rest of the investors again, threatening me of the decision I've made.I will never let him arrange my marriage to someone this time. I will rule my life, and I mean it. If he wants war against me, I will face him, heads on high."Don't worry, Drew. I have already talked to Samuel. He will help us." Liam said in the line. "Just take care of Beauty. The articles about you and Beatrice may hurt her. You
Beauty's POVI let the warm water wash my face while my tears are flowing. I waited an hour in his room, but he never returned. I had the heaviest heart when I left the place and came back here, in my hotel room. I don't think I will be okay after this. I just can't take it.My message to Drew:Drew, darling, I love you, and I'm sorry. I got carried away with my insecurities and jealousy. I forgot your sacrifices. I love you so much. I will see you back home.I stared at my cell phone simultaneously and still had no messages from Drew. I know that he left Japan last night. Mamita confirmed it with me. Today is the day I will also return with Mamita. I turned off my cell phone and have no plans of turning it back on."You, alright?" Mamita asked beside me. She probably noticed I wasn't at myself as I was quiet the whole time."I'm good, Mamita. Thank you," I weakly responded, and she smiled.***My eyebrows met while watching the TV. I paused to eat the banana bread that my sister Amal
Beauty's POV I walked towards Drew's shut door without a plan. I looked around, and there was no one. I took a deep breath and was about to knock but changed my mind. I felt my flesh shaking thinking of Beatrice. I fisted my hands and took another deep breath. I stared at the door before me briefly and stepped back. I dialed Drew's number, and it rang a few times. He didn't answer it. I chuckled, feeling so annoyed now. Me to Drew: Drew, are you free to talk? I waited long enough for a response, but I realized he would never respond and probably chose to ignore me today. My blood rose to the limit of what I could handle. So, straight away, I knocked heavily on his door. It opened, and it was no longer a surprise for him to see me. He left the door open for me to enter and turned his back to me. I stepped in and looked around. The empty cups of coffee are still sitting on the coffee table. My brows furrowed at the thought of Beatrice being here a while ago. "Drew?" I looked beh