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CHAPTER 3 Mister Arrogance and Miss Innocence
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2024-09-15 17:26:29"You must be Eliza, Madam's new PA," a voice said behind Eliza in the elevator on her way up to the office. She turned around and met the eyes of a tall gentleman with laugh lines around the eyes which are currently twinkling with admiration as he looked at her. She didn't notice him when she entered the elevator as she was so focused on not stumbling. She was wearing her heels today in a dark blue skirt suit, purchased by Ami as a gift upon her arrival in the UAE. She wanted to give a good impression on her first day as Mariam’s PA. She smiled at the gentleman warily and replied, "I am sorry Sir, but how did you know? I don't even know you"
" I beg your pardon Miss, I am Theo. We will be seeing each other a lot as I also work for Madam."
"Oh, Mr. Theo Matthews? The Manager?", suddenly she recalled reading his name on the website when she was looking it up last night. "A pleasure to meet you, sir", Eliza gushed.
"Oh, nonsense my dear. Just call me Theo or Mr. Theo if that is more comfortable with you." Theo extended his hand as they stepped out of the elevator to the 12th Floor of the Falcon Towers along Corniche Road. Just as soon as Eliza accepted his handshake, another voice sounded behind her which sent shivers down her spine. She stiffened as she heard him say, "Isn't this cozy, just new to the company and already flirting with your superiors?" Eliza ignored the man behind her and continued walking but Theo stopped and acknowledged the presence of Matan.
" Good morning Mr. Matan, sir. It is not like that, she really is not flirting with me, it was my fault. I caught her unawares and just didn't introduce myself properly. It was just a simple handshake."
"Don't bother to explain Mr. Theo, he is just an arrogant, know-it-all, conceited human being who likes to torture me every time we meet!" Eliza exclaimed passionately.
"Oh wow! Arrogant is it, Miss Innocence?" Matan countered. Theo looked between the two and wanting to avoid any conflict between his bosses' son and the new employee, he discreetly shielded Eliza as she intrigued and interested him. "Ahhhm, if you would excuse us Sir, Eliza and I need to be on our way as I have to introduce her to the other employees." Theo ushered Eliza inside the office while Matan was left in the hallway silently fuming. He did not like the way Theo was being possessive all of a sudden. He also couldn't understand why it bothered him so much. What if the woman is flirting with the manager. So what? Shaking his head, he followed them inside and regretted it instantly as soon as he saw how Theo was still holding Eliza's hand with the pretense of helping her navigate the cubicles in the office. He quietly sneaked behind the two and whispered to Eliza, who stiffened again as she felt his breath on her ear. The guy is really getting on her nerves. Will he not just stop bothering her. As she was thinking this, she realized what he just whispered, "Let go of Theo's hand, are you his girlfriend, already?" On that thought she released the other guy's hand but as she did so, another caught it and was surreptitiously caressing it. She jerked her hand free as if burned and moved quickly ahead of Theo. Matan is causing havoc with her body and mind. She hated it as it reminded her of her naivety back when she was in college. Thankfully, they reached the last cubicle where a chatty but pretty Filipina was busy typing away at a very fast pace. Eliza was impressed; she could only type at an average speed. When the woman noticed them, she stopped what she was doing and batted her eyelashes at the two men next to Eliza. Obviously, she is the office flirt as both men seemed to take her flirting in a stride even indulging her.
"Oh bother!" Eliza groaned as she didn't notice Matan accompanying them to the last cubicle. But when he flirtatiously flicked an errant curl on the other woman's face, she felt like scratching the woman's pretty face. She really is confused, and so to disguise how she felt, she smiled widely at the woman and extended her hand saying, "Hi, I'm Eliza, pleased to meet you, Miranda."
Miranda accepted her hand and shook it twice before returning her smile. She detained the two men though with her chatter which gave Eliza a relief as she meandered back to the first cubicle where she was introduced first. She liked the Indian woman as she met her previously at the company accommodation. There were only two of them at the moment but Ami told her, another might join them just as soon as another teacher for the nursery arrives. Meera's eyes lighted up when Eliza sat on the chair next to her table.
"I hope you don't mind Meera, but I just need to sit for a moment while Mr. Theo is occupied." She lowered her voice and asked, "Is the boss' son always hanging out here? I thought he has his own business."
Meera leaned in and answered softly, "Not really, he only hangs around when a new employee arrives especially if that employee is as beautiful as you." Eliza blushed.
"Me, beautiful? I don't think so, I have seen a lot of beautiful ladies down at the lobby and I am so out of their league. I just wish..." She didn't finish her sentence as Theo poked his head in and signaled her to follow him. Mr. Matan said he will be sitting in for madam at the moment as she is currently at the nursery helping out her daughter. So, he and I will be guiding you as to what you will be doing.
Eliza was so flustered by his statement and blurted out, "Do we really need him today? You are the manager, are you not? I do not see why he needs to be involved. I'm really sorry Mr. Theo; I know he is the bosses' son but I really am uncomfortable with him around."
"Why Eliza, did he do something to you?" Theo sounded angry. Eliza stuttered, "Errrm, not really. I am sorry Mr. Theo, forget I said that. Let us just begin, shall we?" She stood awkwardly and although Theo was scowling, he led the way to the Madam’s office where Matan was sitting comfortably in the swivel chair. He was smiling when he saw Eliza but his countenance changed when he spotted Theo ahead of her.
Of all the unlucky managers to be here, Matan thought. Why does it have to be this guy? He always thwarts his plans every time. Maybe he can find somewhere for him, hmmm, that is one thing to ponder upon and maybe suggest it to his mother? Why not? Just like that he was grinning like a fool.
Bab terkait
Puzzled Hearts (Book 3 of Precious Series) CHAPTER 4 Training Day
Eliza schooled her features although her heart was beating erratically at the sight of Matan all suited up and looking so handsome in that seat. How did she fail to notice his outfit earlier? She was so busy fighting the sensations he caused in her body, that's why. Damn, he really is so bothersome, but also too handsome for his own good, she thought. She suppressed the shiver that coursed through her body when Matan gave her body a sweeping glance before returning to her eyes as he spoke, " I believe you wanted to get started Ms. Vicente, so why don't you take a seat and write this down." In his mind he was not dictating the words Madam Al Fahezi gave him but things he wanted Eliza to do starting with her discarding her clothes in front of him. What? Where did those thoughts come from? He slapped his head unconsciously which got Eliza's attention. "I'm sorry Sir, are you okay? Am I supposed to write that down, take off your clothes? Whose clothes, Sir, a model?
Terakhir Diperbarui : 2024-09-15Puzzled Hearts (Book 3 of Precious Series) Chapter 5 Apologies long past its due
After a long day, Eliza was grateful to be home. Her training lasted a month and thankfully, after that first day, Mariam continued training her with the help of Theo. As she is a quick-study, it didn’t take her long to learn the ins and outs of the business. It also helped that Ami was so organized that all the documents she needed were filed meticulously both soft and hard copies. Matan just pops in every now and then, considering he has his businesses to run but even if she hates to admit it, Eliza misses him to her extreme annoyance. Although she yearned to walk by the Corniche as the water looked so refreshing and inviting, she just wanted to rest. Home was the accommodation provided by the company. She doesn't really care as long as she can lie down on her own bed. Meera treated her to dinner despite Theo inviting her first. She declined for the reason that other employees might put meaning to the special attention he seems to be giving her. She may be naive but not tha
Terakhir Diperbarui : 2024-09-15Puzzled Hearts (Book 3 of Precious Series) CHAPTER 6 Dinner date?
One morning, Eliza went ahead of Meera as the latter was not feeling well. She just said it is her monthlies so though a bit apprehensive, Eliza took the bus to work. She has a transportation allowance but she did not really mind taking the bus, besides it afforded her a view of the city while travelling. She could also use the extra money to send back home. She promised herself that she would go walking during her off days should her employer not require her that is. She was already oriented by Ami so to speak. She was wearing her second pair of heels this time black to go with her black ensemble. Yesterday was a skirt, today trousers. Although there was no specific dress code so long as it is professional, the employees enjoy the freedom to choose what they wear, besides it is a fashion industry. More often than not, some employees are asked to wear some of the clothes they will be selling in stores. It is their marketing strategy. If people give positive comments on what
Terakhir Diperbarui : 2024-09-15Puzzled Hearts (Book 3 of Precious Series) CHAPTER 7 Can we start over?
Is the woman trying to annoy him? Can't she even find a decent clothing to dress herself? Those were the thoughts currently running in Matan's head as he beheld the vision in black coming into the restaurant. He was more annoyed to see Theo with a smug smile on his face while Eliza's hand was on his arm as they were ushered in. Noticing the admiring looks she was garnering, he slowly took off his coat and swiftly covered her with it all the while whispering "Are you intentionally attracting attention to yourself?" Eliza was shocked and incensed with his action and whispered words that she stopped, flung his coat back at him and and said aloud " Ain't your damn business. You're not my keeper!?" Matan was taken aback by her response that he nearly dragged her out of the restaurant if not for Theo managing to lead her away before their altercation escalated further. To be fair, Eliza was attired appropriately compared to some of the lady diners present. It was just
Terakhir Diperbarui : 2024-09-22Puzzled Hearts (Book 3 of Precious Series) CHAPTER 8 Desperate Dad
Thirty years ago, to this day, Alonzo left his son to the care of his good friends, Abdullah and Mariam Al Fahezi. The mother of his son just left as soon as she delivered their child. Alonzo couldn't believe she could just leave them after her sweet promises. He couldn't blame her though; she thought he was just an ordinary expat with an extraordinary face. Of course, Alonzo had to be secretive about his life otherwise, his grandfather could track him down and bring him back to Italy where he'll be under lock and key. So, fearing for his son's life, he had to leave him to the care of his friends promising to be back for him once he secured a safe life as far away as possible from the clutches of his grandfather. He can't go back to Italy because he'll be easily discovered, nor can he go to the US, he doesn't know anyone there. "Where are you planning to go, habibi?" Abdullah asked. " I would rather not tell you but I will contact you as soon
Terakhir Diperbarui : 2024-10-19Puzzled Hearts (Book 3 of Precious Series) CHAPTER 9 Dawn of the Don
“Have you found my grandson?” the don asked the two men sitting tensely across him in the courtyard of his villa. Though the question was asked softly, it held a menace to it. The two men were fidgety as they were very apprehensive of how the don would take their report. Impatient of their answers, the don flicked his wrist and his whip was speedily in his hands. The two gentlemen quaked in their boots. They know the sting of that dratted whip as they were the recipient more than once in their growing up years. They hated that they have to kowtow to his every demand. If only they could find that very precious grandson and get rid of him permanently, but alas, they have scoured Italy to no avail. Even with the don’s extensive connections, they couldn’t find their prey. That is what’s worrying them because they know how volatile the don is. More fearful of what the don might ask his minions to do, the taller and much heavier man stood up and with false bravado said: “Uncle, I m
Terakhir Diperbarui : 2024-12-22Puzzled Hearts (Book 3 of Precious Series) CHAPTER 10 Conundrum
“No Abdullah, this can’t be true, why now after so many years? He can’t take my son away, noooo!” Madam Mariam was trying to hold back her sobs in her husband’s arm. “Habibti, you know he isn’t really ours. We promised to protect him and consider him ours which we did, but we can’t keep him forever, he has the right to know who he really is. “Abdullah tried to comfort her hugging her tightly and kissing her hijab-covered head. That was how Matan saw them when he arrived at the Al Fahezi residence in town. It was previously Rain’s apartment which they converted into their own by adding the apartment next to it. The hotel is now managed by Ali as they are co-owners of the hotel. Rain did not want to relinquish it altogether for him and Ami to have a place to stay when they visit. He was about to confront Abdullah when another person arrived at the scene. He froze for a minute before dismissing her out of his thoughts or he tried to because she tried
Terakhir Diperbarui : 2024-12-23Puzzled Hearts (Book 3 of Precious Series) CHAPTER 11 Who Am I?
“Shit, shit, shit!” Matan kept saying the foul word while walking along the corniche. He did not know how he managed to cross the street without getting hit by a car. He didn’t care, all his life he thought Abdullah and Mariam were his parents, the Al Fahezi siblings his own. What an utter lie, what bull crap. He kept walking oblivious to the stares of people. A loud shout halted him in his tracks. Ali was running furiously towards him. “You mad man! What the hell do you think you’re doing? Are you out of your mind? Crossing that street with no care for yourself? You almost gave me a heart attack, man! Don’t you ever, ever do that again.” Ali gave him a shove that had him staggering back. “Bro, what’s gotten into you?” he snapped at Matan. “Don’t call me that, Ali. We know I am not really your brother. I was just a nobody left in your parents’ care. I don’t even know who I am right now? If he is really my father, why did he leave me? Why r
Terakhir Diperbarui : 2024-12-24
Bab terbaru
Puzzled Hearts (Book 3 of Precious Series) CHAPTER 28 You or your son?
Three months have passed since Matan and Eliza went back to the UAE but after that airport pickup, the former got so busy with work that he wasn’t able to sustain his vow of picking Eliza for work. They were both so busy with their work that neither noticed until she overheard her employer talking with someone over the phone. She didn’t mean to eavesdrop but sharing the office with Mariam means hearing her conversation with people over the phone. “How long will you be gone? Who will run your businesses? Oh well then, I guess that is alright. I didn’t know that Devlin’s brother remained in Italy. It has been what, almost five months now, hasn’t it? Eliza? Yes, yes of course, that you would even ask. Take care of yourself and of your father, we hope you’ll come back safe and whole. You’ll always be my son, love you. See you when you get back.” Mariam ended her call and waved at Eliza when she noticed her hovering by the door. “Do come in habibti. That was Matan, he and his f
Puzzled Hearts (Book 3 of Precious Series) CHAPTER 27 Double Trouble
In the don’s villa, Vigo and Brio were able to corner Greta on her way to her bedroom. Vigo laid out his plans to Brio beforehand so that he would be assured of his brother’s cooperation. Greta upon seeing them wanted to flee as no good can come of this meeting as usual. “Come va?” Greta asked warily? “Cut the pleasantry woman!” Vigo snapped. Even though you were able to twist the old man’s hand and convinced him to propose to you, admit it, with his heir found, our chances at his riches are nil so you better work with us if you know what’s good for you.” Planning to play along as she ran out of ideas on how to proceed after getting the don to finally propose to her, Greta ushered the brothers into the attached parlor to her bedroom where she served them each a finger of brandy while she poured champagne for herself. Why relegate champagne to special occasions only when the don has an abundance of it. He has a winery and a vineyard after all. Brio wa
Puzzled Hearts (Book 3 of Precious Series) CHAPTER 26 Reality bites
Matan ended up going back to the UAE by himself as Eliza’s ticket didn’t coincide with his. Their talk at the Gonzales Manor proved enlightening. He managed at least to get Eliza’s consent for him to formally court her as she deserves. The courtship is all but a formality for Matan because she is already his despite her objections. He laid her concerns to rest. Her spouting gibberish about her lack of virtue was no concern to him as he jokingly teased her that he himself is no longer a virgin as well. Eliza was torn between laughing and angry with him but at least he was able to make her smile. Although he did not get his heart’s desire that they would fly back together, he could at least pick her up at the airport with no awkwardness whatsoever between them or so he hopes. He brought Eliza back to her house so she could pack up. Her brothers agreed to Claudia’s plan of having Eliza stay with them at the manor until it was time for her to fly back. Her brothers and her niece
Puzzled Hearts (Book 3 of Precious Series) CHAPTER 25 Love over grief
That kiss during Eliza’s vulnerable moment emphasized her susceptibility to temptation in the form of a handsome man named Matan Mansour Vanni Vittore. But who is she kidding, despite Matan’s not saying anything, she fell for him, hard. How couldn’t she, she felt safe around him, safe and cared for. Her mother has been buried and all the customs and traditions had been dealt with so she can now go back to the UAE. Matan’s offer still stands, he extended his stay and was awaiting her decision. Dare she hope for more? He mentioned that he won’t say anything until they got back to the UAE and that he respects her mourning period, but what does it mean? He heard her confession to her family about her past but he doesn’t seem bothered by it. Her grief over her mother’s death is still too much but for her family, she must remain strong. With that in mind, she opened her social media account and read loads of messages of sympathy. She was busy responding to some of the
Puzzled Hearts (Book 3 of Precious Series) CHAPTER 24 Clipped wing
Aware that they were left alone, Eliza looked at Matan with questions in her eyes. “What is it habibti?” Matan asked refusing to let her out of his embrace. “When did you arrive? And how did it go with your travel? Is your great-grandfather dead?” Eliza asked in succession but not moving away from his embrace although her rational mind was wanting to. Her heart’s desire won. She wanted to be held by him longer than what propriety entails. “One at a time, sweetheart.” Matan didn’t regret using the endearment. God knows they both need it now. “As you can see, I am as whole and hale as the last time you saw me, although to be honest I was quite upset when I found out you weren’t there when I got back. I know, I have no right to be, but I was hoping that my previous gallant gestures would have given you a clue as to what I feel towards you. But that matter could wait, what matters is I am here to offer you a shoulder to cry on and sturdy arms to hold you should y
Puzzled Hearts (Book 3 of Precious Series) CHAPTER 23 Forgive me?
“Mama, what did you get yourself into this time?” Eliza teased her mother as soon as she arrived at the hospital trying to mask the pity she felt for her. She went straight to the hospital from the airport. Her father embraced her as soon as she arrived, it was unexpected as her family isn’t very showy when it comes to emotions. She only just noticed how her parents have aged most specially the matriarch of her family. She looked so gaunt and emaciated in her hospital gown. Her parents have mutually agreed on a beneficial separation instead of the legal process. Not because of another family but because of bad habits that never changed. “The usual I guess.” Her mother replied in a weak voice. She too seemed to want to ignore the pain she is currently feeling. “Glad you could come home, my daughter. Were your employers unhappy that you came home? I hope they are not giving you a hard time, we do not want that for you. But really, you didn’t need to come home for my sa
Puzzled Hearts (Book 3 of Precious Series) CHAPTER 22 Heartless Heir
After the old man was beaten into submission somewhat, what with a broken nose and jaw, Alonzo accompanied by his son and Devlin went to the don’s villa. Tiernan decided to stay in the rented cottage to watch out for trouble. He believed that the old man’s surrender was too easy and as Tiernan was once the leader of a gang, he knew, the don was hatching a dangerous game for father and son. Still having contacts in the underworld, he solicited their help for his brother’s friends is how he described the situation. Upon arriving at the villa, the don’s guards immediately secured him inside asking for his long-time mistress, Greta to call for a doctor. Greta after being kept by the don for a long time developed an affection for the don or for the luxury, he afforded her, nobody really knows but she stayed. Upon seeing the don’s bloodied and bruised face, she cried with sincere horror. “Amore mio, what happened to you? And who are you?” She glared at the three men and
Puzzled Hearts (Book 3 of Precious Series) CHAPTER 21 Flee now confess later
The week passed by without so much as a hi or hello from Matan and Eliza was truthfully feeling awful. After waking up in the morning after that distressful night and finding his note under her door, Eliza felt like crying again. She knew in her heart that the man she thought at first to be annoying and unfeeling turned out to be a knight in shining armor. She noticed the hurriedly folded blanket by her feet and deduced that he never left her that night possibly sleeping on the couch in the salon. The scent of his aftershave or cologne was her clue. Not feeling particularly up for a very professional look, she opted to go smart casual. She was hoping he’d pick her up that morning but his note said, he’s off to Dubai. Feeling melancholy all of a sudden, she decided to walk and went straight to Devlin’s Cafe. She ordered her usual coffee but had no appetite for food and decided to just bring the coffee to work. The staff probably noticed her mood so they just waved and smiled at
Puzzled Hearts (Book 3 of Precious Series) CHAPTER 20 Keep your enemy closer
Matan awoke early and grumpy. He knew the reason but he couldn’t act on it not until everyone is safe. He treaded quietly towards Eliza’s room and tried to open her door as noiselessly as he could wincing at the little creak it made. He returned the blanket and was thankful that she was still fast asleep. He stole another kiss like he did last night and hurried out lest she awakens. He found post it notes on the coffee table beside the couch he slept in. He scribbled a note to Eliza and slid it under her door. After washing his face and rinsing his mouth, he left Eliza’s accommodation. Alonzo was waiting for him expectantly but Matan said nothing. The lesser he knew the better, with a smile, he just greeted “Good morning, Pops, ready to go tackle the enemy? “Boungiorno son. You better go shower first, I think. You look like you’ve been partying all night.” Alonzo returned. “Were that the case, t’would been fun.” Matan smirked. “Like what I told you in my messa
