Chapter 4 After Two Months

Jenny Pov...

Dubai ranks among the top destinations you should consider visiting.

Sir Axel's advice resonated with me as I recognized the need to acquaint myself before diving into work. Fortunately, he granted me some time to familiarize myself. It was reassuring that he had already briefed me about my new workplace.

Navigating through this job presents challenges, for various individuals both inside and outside the workplace. However, I was assured that the employees were well-trained in handling discrimination issues.

A proactive and respected CEO, Sir Axel's dedication to his work is admirable. If he has a wife, she must consider herself fortunate to have such a hardworking and strikingly attractive husband.

Jenny, don't let your friend's infatuation cloud your judgment. I chuckled to myself. While I'll miss my life in the Philippines, it's time for me to chart a new course.

At the beach, I admired the luxurious surroundings, watching people interact and soaking in the beauty of the shoreline.

"Hi! Are you Filipino?" A man suddenly approached me.

"Oh, yes! It's my fourth day, and I'm taking a stroll before I begin my desired work." I replied shortly not to be rude.

"Wow! Where are you going to work? I'm on my day off. I've been here for a year as a hotelier." He said engaging in a longer conversation.

"At Monticello Group of Hotels and Resorts. I'll be working as the Marketing Manager." I happily responded.

"Really! Are you replacing Mam Adalah? I'm the Assistant Marketing Manager there. The previous manager resigned, and his family is moving to the US. It's great that the new manager is easy to get along with, not to mention being a fellow Filipino." He said, clearly relieved.

"I'm Greg San Juan." He introduced himself, extending his hand.

"Nice to meet you, Greg. I'm Jenny Santos!" I shook his hand in return.

I've been at this job for a week now. It's delightful working with my colleagues, they have a great sense of humor. Greg, in particular, is a diligent coworker who supports my ideas, offering valuable insights and displaying remarkable skills in planning and organizing events.

He's like an engineer in his thinking and an architect when designing and arranging venues. Almost every event has its mark. During my first week, he took care of me, bringing coffee and snacks, and even providing takeout when I couldn't have lunch. He's the kind of boyfriend every woman desires, but my heart and mind remain closed to that possibility. I can only offer him my friendship.

"Pssst! Let's have lunch. I brought something to share." He offered, tapping on my table.

"Sure, thanks for taking care of me. Your girlfriend is indeed lucky to have you. You're one in a million." I joked, patting his shoulder but if he has, that woman is blessed.

He laughed, "I'd have one if she found me attractive!" He said somewhat wistfully.

I glanced at him, "maybe you haven't shown her yet." I suggested unaware who the woman he was mentioning.

He suddenly paused, looking at me intently. "I already did!" He said, his gaze suddenly becomes intense. Wait, is he referring to me? It can't be! I can't deal with this. I need to calm down and just eat. I broke our gaze and we ate in silence. 

Weekends are a welcome relief. I can relax, unwind, and just take it easy. I should tell Dana about how great things are going on here. It was unexpected and grateful the adjustment wasn't brutal.

To: Dana Clemente Hi bessy! How are you? I've settled into work here, and it's going great!

From: Dana Clemente Hi bessy!!!!! Miss you. I'm fine, and I've started working here in Canada as well. I met a new Filipina friend and she's my assistant. I've also adjusted to living alone.

From: Jenny Santos Me too, bestie, but it's a man, and he's my assistant. Hardworking and handsome, too. What? You're not in the Philippines? I exclaimed surprised. Her admission at the Hayat Hotel was great. So, why the sudden change of workplace?

From: Dana Clemente Uh huh! I smell something. Introduce him to me so I can put him to the test too. Insert laughing emoji. Yeah! The offer is tempting and crazy not to accept. Mom and dad supported me too.

From: Jenny Santos Sorry bestie, he's not my type. I prefer someone tall with fair skin, dark curly hair, and thick lips. I also want firm abs and muscles to cuddle. Wait, am I thinking about the man from my one-night stand? His kisses were so sweet that I lost my senses and gave up my virginity. I shook my head, recalling that night.

From: Dana Clemente So, since when did you start dreaming about muscular arms to embrace you and thick lips to kiss you?

From: Jenny Santos Insert laughing emoji. Just now, I guess.

It's been three months since I left the Philippines to work here. Greg has been pursuing me for a while, but I've made it clear that I can only love him as a friend. Despite my refusal, he's still sweet and caring. We've built a friendship that no one can break. We visit each other's flats often, binge-watching N*****x and some K-dramas. I even convinced him to dance to the latest BTS Butter dance. We've even adopted an endearing term for each other.

Today, for instance, "Kisses, take a break, I brought something you've been craving!" He called out while serving in the pantry.

Greg has it all! He's a skilled cook, specializing in Italian and Japanese cuisine. He is also attractive and good at his fieldwork. Tsk! Tsk! Tsk! It seems like when God was giving out good qualities, Greg was first in line and he took them all. However, I only want him as a lifelong friend, not as a husband.

"Okay, I'll be right there!" I responded, feeling suddenly nauseated.

He panicked and followed me. "Are you okay? You look terrible!" He asked, worried and confused, massaging my back and brushing the strands of hair away from my face. I shook my head, indicating that I wasn't okay.

"What's wrong, Kisses? You haven't eaten anything yet, and now you're vomiting?" He asked, concerned, peering at my face as if trying to read an open book.

"I'm sorry, Greg. I don't know. I felt nauseous when I caught a whiff of the dish you were preparing. I don't like the smell, and I'm craving spicy fried chicken!" I replied, almost pleading. His eyes widened, and his mouth dropped open as he stared at me realizing something.