NEMESIS: HATE AT FIRST LOVE.

ORION.

As I stepped into the bustling office with Harro by my side, the vibrant atmosphere enveloped us, like a warm embrace from an old friend. Sunlight poured through the expansive glass windows, casting a golden glow on the space, and today it felt electrified with an extra spark.

I could sense the subtle shift in the atmosphere the moment we walked in together. Harro exuded confidence and soft elegance, his white hair cascading in effortless waves, framing his chiseled features perfectly. His tailored suit accentuated his lean physique, making him look like a masterpiece carved by the gods.

My employees' eyes darted toward him, curiosity igniting like fireworks on a summer night. Whispers and subtle gasps filled the air, their faces reflecting a mix of awe and lust. It was clear; Harro's presence had turned our ordinary office into an extraordinary scene, and I couldn't help but feel proud to have him by my side.

As we approached the reception area, I was greeted by Miss Boris, my secretary. Her eyes widened, and I caught the slight gasp escaping her lips. "Wow!" she whispered, her gaze unwavering on Harro. I could sense her admiration, her lust, and her curiosity.

I introduced Harro, my voice deeper than usual, an instinctive need to protect and claim him flaring within me. "This is Mr. Bishop," I said, my tone assertive. "He's with me today." I added curtly, my eyes meeting Miss Boris's, a silent warning to maintain professionalism.

A flicker of desire danced in her eyes, and I felt a possessive urge bubble just beneath the surface. I quickly steered Harro toward my office, trying to shield him from the gazes that followed. But I could sense the ripple of intrigue spreading throughout the office, like a whispered secret.

This wasn't just about Harro's captivating presence; it was about the unspoken statement I'd made by bringing him here. I'd never come into the office with anyone by my side, except Athena. Harro's presence was a declaration, a subtle yet powerful message that I'd found someone worthy of sharing my space, my time, and my attention. And as we walked into my office, I could feel the weight of that declaration, the envy and the admiration that came with it.

As we settled into my office, Harro's presence transformed the familiar space into something extraordinary. He picked up framed photographs of my mom and me, making playful faces that left me amused. I set up a workstation for him on my desk, wanting him to feel at home, part of my world.

"You'll use this space today, I hope you don't mind?" I asked, there's a bigger desk at the other end of my office I use for meetings but I just wanted him closer to me.

"It's perfect, thank you!" He replied with a smile as he sat down cross-legged opposite me and I took my sit too breathing a sigh of relief.

But before I could relax properly, my employees poured into my office for our usual morning briefing, and the energy shifted almost immediately. Their eyes widened, and whispers erupted as they spotted Harro. I felt sorry for not calling off this morning briefing. A strong protective instinct kicked in as they continue to gape at him and I saw red; he was mine, I hated the way they looked at him like he was a piece of meat.

Thomas, one of the older pharmacists, spoke first, "Good morning, Mr. Stone. Who's your guest?" His tone was professional, but curiosity sparkled in his eyes.

I introduced Harro, explaining his role in the merger and room fell silent again, with all eyes on him. He flashed a polite smile, radiating charm. I gave my employees a narrowed look, my grip on the desk tightening, a silent warning to keep their admiration and lust in check.

Soon, we started the briefing and as the meeting progressed, I struggled to focus, stealing glances at Harro as he worked. My employees, however, became increasingly engaged with him, asking for his thoughts and ideas. Harro's enthusiasm was infectious, he made his contribution with a polite smile and professionalism, but when they laughed too hard at something he'd said or leaned too close when he showed them something on his laptop, my jealousy flared. I would feel my jaw tightened, as a low growl builds in my throat. It was clear: someone was bound to get fired if this continues.

As the meeting concluded, my employees began to disperse, but not before casting lingering glances at Harro, who had settled back into his previous position on my desk, exuding effortless elegance and charm. Emma, one of our newest team members, approached him with a casual air, as if they were old friends. However, I couldn't shake off the protective instinct that rose within me.

I know Harro's youthful appearance and playful nature makes him approachable which belied his impressive accomplishments but they should still act with some restraint – he had built an empire, after all.

"Do you want to grab lunch with us, Mr. Bishop?" Emma asked, her voice sweet and inviting.

Harro's response was warm, yet measured. "Thanks, but I think I'll hang back here for a bit." I sensed a hint of understanding in his eyes, as if he'd picked up on my unease.

As the team filed out, I leaned in closer to Harro, our foreheads almost touching. "That was unexpected, I'm sorry." I whispered, my concern threaded through my voice. "You okay?" I asked softly, my eyes locked onto his, searching for reassurance.

"Of course," Harro replied, his tone soothing. "That was nothing new, I'm used to it. Thank you for letting me sit in on your meeting, and sorry about them." He referred to the ladies fawning over him, and I winced, feeling a pang of guilt, that wasn't his fault.

Yet, a comforting warmth bloomed in my chest at his words. "It's fine, just remember," I murmured, dropping my voice low, "you're here with me, and you're mine." My words were a gentle warning, a reminder of our set boundaries.

Harro's eyes sparkled with mischief, and he nudged me playfully. "I promise, babe. I would never let them have such access to me. I'm all yours!" His reassurance was simple yet powerful, settling my worried heart.

To his words, Harro did behave himself during working hours as we sat opposite each focusing on working till it was time for lunch.

I watched his excitement blend with curiosity as I led him from my office to the cozy café adjacent, a hidden gem known for its artisanal coffee and decadent pastries. As we walked through the quaint entrance, the warm aroma of freshly brewed coffee enveloped us, mingling nicely with the sweet scent of pastries filling the display case.

His eyes scanned the café, where soft music created a welcoming ambiance, and eclectic artwork adorned the walls. "This place is cute!" he said, his voice a mix of awe and laughter as he took a seat at a small wooden table that overlooked the bustling street below. I smiled, pleased that he appreciated the charm of the café as much as I did.

Over a leisurely brunch, we surrendered to effortless conversation, our connection growing stronger with each shared laugh and story. Harro's eyes twinkled as he recounted hilarious childhood experiences, while I opened up about the challenges of building the company after my mom's passing. Our exchanges wove a deeper bond between us, each word and gesture a tender thread.

I was captivated by Harro's passion, his eyes sparkling like diamonds as he spoke about his dreams. His words were a gentle breeze on a summer day, and I found myself entranced, hanging onto every syllable.

As we returned to the office, time seemed to stand still. We settled into a comfortable rhythm, Harro revealed some breathtaking sketches he'd been working on - beautiful landscapes and whimsical creatures for an amusement park project.

I marveled at his talent, urging him to reveal the inspiration behind each piece. His creativity knew no bounds, and I couldn't help but wonder: was there anything he couldn't do?

The hours dissolved into a haze of creativity and conversation, punctuated by playful debates about our favorite travel destinations. In Harro's presence, time lost all meaning, and I was content to drift on the tide of our connection, savoring every moment.

Just then, Athena's cheerful voice burst into the room, "Riri, you won't believe who I just ran into in the hallway, Thomas! Remember how we used to pull pranks on him while you..." Her words trailed off, her eyes widened in surprise when she spotted Harro, and I couldn't help but chuckle.

Athena's gaze locked onto Harro, her face lighting up with excitement. "Whoa, he's actually sitting right there, and I'm not dreaming!" she exclaimed, her grin spreading from ear to ear. She floated toward him, her movements effortless, and extended her hand.

"Nice to finally meet you in person." she said, her voice dripping with warmth. Athena turned to me, her eyes sparkling with excitement.

"He's even more gorgeous in person!" she whispered, her voice barely containing her enthusiasm. Harro's eyes crinkled at the corners as he took her hand, his chuckle low and smooth. I watched, amused, as Athena worked her charm, effortlessly drawing Harro into her orbit.

Athena's cheeks flushed with a delicate blush as gazed at her, and Harro's eyes crinkled at the corners as he laughed. "Nice to finally meet you in person too, and thank you, you're more beautiful in person too!" he said, his words sincere.

Athena's eyes sparkled with gratitude "I was going to give you the talk about taking care of my best friend, but now I just gotta say keep up the good work," she teased, making Harro chuckle. I rolled my eyes good-naturedly, feeling grateful for their easy friendship.

Harro met my gaze, his eyes locking onto mine as he winked. "I can assure you, he's in good hands." he said, his voice low and reassuring.

With Athena now part of our little circle, the atmosphere lightened even further. We spent the afternoon sharing stories, laughter, and playful jabs that rang with genuine affection.

As the sun's rays dipped lower, bathing the room in a warm, golden light, I felt a deep sense of contentment washing over me. The day had unfolded like a masterpiece, beginning with curiosity and wonder, and evolving into new friendships filled with warmth, laughter, and stronger connection.

I'm surrounded by Athena's radiant energy and Harro's protective and gentle charm, I know this was just the beginning of something special. A new sense of reassurance settled within me, a quiet confidence that we would navigate life's twists and turns together, and that everything was going to be alright. We were going to be fine, and that knowledge filled me with a sense of peace and joy.