I had only been at the company for three days when I was summoned to the director’s office.
He — my new boss, Laul — was tall, serious-looking, with a deep voice that commanded both respect and a hint of fear.
“I have an overseas business trip this week,” he said. “Come with me. I’ll need a secretary to assist.”
I froze. I’d just started my probation, hadn’t even gotten to know anyone yet, and now I was being asked to go abroad — for a whole week, just the two of us?
My mind raced with questions. What if I say no? I might lose the job. But if I go… what if something happens? Who would believe me?
That night, I tossed and turned, unable to sleep. Finally, I decided to go — for my career, and because I refused to judge someone based on a vague, irrational fear.
The night before the flight, Laul texted me:
“I’ll pick you up tomorrow. Easier than calling a taxi that early.”
I simply replied, “Okay.”
He arrived right on time the next morning, his car gleaming, the faint scent of his cologne filling the air. During the four-hour flight, he sat beside me, occasionally asking:
“Do you get airsick?”
“No,” I replied.
He just smiled and said nothing more.
When we arrived, we went to check in. As the receptionist handed over the keycards, I noticed — only one room key. I frowned slightly but assumed there’d be another one coming.
But no. In the elevator, Laul spoke softly:
“There’s been a mix-up. The hotel’s full tonight. We’ll have to share for now — I’ll sort it out tomorrow.”
My heart pounded. I tried to stay calm, nodded, and followed him into the room. He politely moved his suitcase aside and said,
“Freshen up and rest. I’ll work out on the balcony.”
I couldn’t think of anything to say. I went straight into the bathroom, locked the door, and sat down on the toilet lid. The water ran noisily, my thoughts spinning.
What if he planned this?
Time crawled. An hour passed. Silence outside.
Then — knock, knock, knock.
“Panl, are you done?” — his voice came through the door.
I swallowed hard, opened the door, ready for whatever might happen.
But the room was dark — except for the soft glow of candles. On the table sat a small cake, with the words Happy Birthday! scrawled across it.
I stood frozen.
Laul smiled gently.
“I saw in your file that today’s your birthday. You’re far from home, far from friends… I just didn’t want you to feel lonely.”
I was stunned. My heart raced — but now for a different reason. The fear I’d carried all along dissolved into a warm, confusing tenderness.
He pulled out a chair and said lightly:
“Sit down. It’s just the two of us — but I promise, only cake and candles.”
I couldn’t help but smile. Outside, the strange city glittered with light.
What began as a business trip filled with unease became a memory I knew I’d never forget.
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