The Assistant

If Valencia had ever seen a God, Roman Ortiz would be right up there with them. Her heart raced as a gorgeous, tanned man with dark hair stepped out of the office across from her. His chiseled features exuded confidence and charisma. His beard, immaculately groomed, frames his strong jawline. His muscular physique fills the fabric of his perfectly tailored suit with grace and power. Each movement made revealed the strength that lay beneath his refined exterior. The man evoked a sense of intrigue and adoration. However, it was his piercing ocean-blue eyes that held her attention. They kept her gaze as if in a trance.

When she was finally able to look away, she was reminded of how incompatible they were. Mr. Ortiz wore a crisp, white dress shirt that peaked through the jacket's lapels. An expertly knotted silk tie hung down his chest as he tugged at his cufflinks, gleaming with understated elegance, adding a subtle yet captivating sparkle. Mr. Ortiz wore a pair of leather shoes polished to a mirror-like shine to complete his look. His overall appearance was a blend of masculinity and refinement. It commanded attention and left a lasting impression. Whether in a boardroom, a social gathering, or simply walking down the street, Mr. Roman Ortiz's presence was utterly mesmerizing and unforgettable. Valencia had forgotten where she was until his rugged yet velvety voice snapped her back into their reality.

"Ms. Reyes, it is genuinely nice to meet you. Ms. Medina said she felt good about you when she saw your resume. She believes you are capable of becoming my new assistant. I, on the other hand," he readjusted the sleeves on his wrists, "will have to be convinced. Ms. Medina knows she cannot leave here until I completely believe in your abilities." He joked.

"Of course, Sir, I can assure you that I am more than adequate to do the job you ask. I'm a quick study and aim to please. I promise you won't be disappointed." A mischievous smirk appeared on his lips. Valencia hadn't understood why until it donned on her. Her cheeks quickly began to feel warm again. She wasn't sure how much more she'd embarrass herself today.

"Well, then," he smiled, "I look forward to working with you, Ms. Reyes. Now, if the two of you would excuse me, I have a crucial meeting soon. Ms. Medina, I should return by lunch, so please have my food ready. I'll be having the usual today. Thank you." Mr. Ortiz gave his suit jacket one last tug and turned toward the hallway that led to the private elevator.

"Yes, Sir. I'll have everything ready for you upon your return." Eliza gave him a slight nod and smiled.

Valencia again stared at the man who was now her employer as he walked down the small hall, making his way toward the private elevator. She barely knew him, but it felt like they had already known each other for years. There was an invisible bond between them now, and she wondered if he could sense it, too. The further he walked away, the tighter the pull on half of her heart became. It was an odd feeling, one she had never encountered before, not even in her past relationships. Her breath shook as she exhaled, excited to learn what it could mean. Valencia had always heard the phrase everything happens for a reason. Could Roman Ortiz be why her life had gone how it had been because she was meant to be here now with him?

"No," said a stern voice.

"What?" Valencia shrugged sheepishly.

"Don't even go there. That's a whole lot of trouble that you're asking for. Weren't you listening to me earlier? Mr. Ortiz comes from a world we could never even imagine." Eliza raised a brow at her. "Look, Mr. Ortiz is a wonderful man; he cares about his company and employees. Despite his rocky past, he's a better person than most are in this business. One of the best I have worked for. I won't deny that. But he's a mujeriego (womanizer). The women in his life come and go just as quickly as the seconds in this life. He's a player, plain and simple." She shrugged.