A One Night Stand With My Boss

113

The day after the art exhibition ended, Camila received the promised painting from Emily as a gift.

Sitting at her desk, Camila’s gaze remained fixed on the artwork, a troubled expression on her face. The painting was undoubtedly valuable, and she felt it was too generous a gift to accept. After much deliberation, she carefully cradled the painting and knocked on Connor’s office door.

“Come in,” came Connor’s voice from inside. Camila gently pushed open the door and entered. She approached Connor’s desk and gently placed the painting on it, her voice barely above a whisper.

“Mr. Connor.”

Connor looked up, his eyes flashing with surprise as he glanced at the painting on his desk. How did this painting end up here?

This painting was a gift from Ms. Emily, and it’s far too precious,” Camila explained.

Connor’s eyes lingered on the painting, his brow furrowing slightly. He remembered his father joking that this painting was a collaborative effort between him and his son. It was cherished and meant to one day adorn Connor’s child’s room.

Why would his mother give such an important painting to Camila?

Once a gift was given, there was no taking it back. Connor was silent for a moment before looking up at Camila, his voice calm. “Since she gave it to you, you should keep it.”

Camila looked distressed. She loved the painting, but its value was more than she felt comfortable accepting.

“I can’t, it’s too valuable.” She took a deep breath and continued, “I tried to decline Ms. Emily’s generosity, but she insisted. Now that I have it, it really feels overwhelming.”

“Could you please explain to her? Tell her I’m very grateful, but I just can’t accept such an extravagant gift.”

“She might be upset if you return it.” Connor’s voice was thoughtful, almost low. “It was her kind gesture. Keep it.”

“But…”

“Let’s leave it at that for now. I’ll help you take it back to your place tonight.”

Camila nodded. “Thank you.”

Returning to her desk, Camila felt her life was being pulled in directions she’d never anticipated, from a humble neighborhood to now living in an upscale apartment complex.

The coincidences and opportunities, like meeting Rita, attending a birthday party held by the elite socialite, Logan, and now owning a painting worth millions, all seemed surreal.

Just as she was lost in these thoughts, her phone rang, snapping her out of her reverie. “Hey, girl! I’m back from my business trip! Dinner tomorrow night?” Erica’s voice brimmed with excitement.

“Of course! I’ll treat you to a fancy dinner!” Camila replied with a laugh.

After hanging up, Camila felt considerably lighter. She worked diligently until the end of the day.

Time to go,” a man’s voice announced. Camila looked up to see Connor standing by her desk with the painting, tapping on the desk.

“Alright.” Camila quickly gathered her things.

They walked to the elevator, Connor carrying the painting somewhat carelessly, which made Camila frown with concern.

“Mr. Connor, let me hold it,” she offered, reaching for the painting. All content © N/.ôvel/Dr/ama.Org.

Connor shifted slightly, saying, “I got it.”

The elevator arrived. Connor stood in the corner as Camila pressed the button for their floor.

As it was the end of the day, the elevator stopped frequently, filling up with more and more people in the confined space.