
Episode 2: Behind the Cold Facade
Morning at *Delphi Enterprises* starts with the usual rush. However, among the hustling crowd of employees, there was one figure that attracted attention. Lucas Blackwood, the CEO known for his cold nature, is stepping into his room at a steady pace.
However, in Lucas' heart, there was doubt raging. After meeting Ava, there was a strange feeling that she could not understand clearly. He who always put forward professionalism suddenly felt palpitating as he approached his room.
"Ava," he murmured softly in the heart. The name seemed to have magical powers that he could not resist. He wanted to know more about the woman, more than just the candidate he would recruit.
Meanwhile, Ava herself is sitting at her new desk. After joining *Delphi Enterprises*, his life changed drastically. New tasks and greater responsibilities made him feel at once burdened and honored.
In the last few weeks, he's been trying to show his best. Although sometimes he still felt awkward and uncertain, but his spirit never faded. He knew that this opportunity was a rare gift, and he was committed to not wasting it.
One day, Ava gets a special assignment to help in an important presentation. Although she initially felt anxious, she soon felt motivated to give her best. This assignment gives him the opportunity to work directly with Lucas, the CEO who always performs with his professional attitude.
Inside the meeting room, Ava and Lucas sat opposite each other. Presentation material was already available on the screen, and the two began to discuss the details. Lucas seemed to focus on the presentation, but Ava's eyes stole a glance at his focused expression.
"Ava, what do you think about this part?" asked Lucas, breaking his daydream.
Ava bit her lips, trying to gather her thoughts. "I think the addition of statistical data will strengthen our argument" he replied cautiously.
Lucas nodded, aware of Ava's suggestion. "I agree. Continue."
In this discussion, Ava was amazed by Lucas' dedication and deep knowledge. But among that professional impression, there are small moments where their views meet, creating a strange vibe between them.
After a few hours, the presentation is completed and prepared. Ava is satisfied with her hard work with Lucas. They are a tough team, working together to achieve the same goals.
However, behind that professionalism, Lucas was perplexed. He could not ignore the strange feeling that was growing inside him. They only worked together on this project, but why did he feel like there was an invisible rope connecting them?
After the presentation was over, Lucas approached Ava at her desk. "Good work today, Ava," he said with a sincere smile.
Ava smiled back, overwhelmed by the immediate praise from the CEO. "Thank you, Mr. Blackwoods. I'm glad I could contribute."
Lucas feels a little unusual when Ava calls him with 'Mr. Blackwood'. Usually he's just called 'Mr. Blackwood' by the employees, but this time it sounded different when it came from Ava's lips.
Meanwhile, Ava bit her lip. He knew he had to stay professional, but there was a strange vibe that made him want to know more about this mysterious CEO.
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Time passes quickly in *Delphi Enterprises*. Ava is getting used to her new routine and tasks. Every day, he learns more about the complex world of business, and he feels lucky to be working at a company of this size.
On the other hand, Lucas also felt something unexpected. She, who had always been known for her cold head, now found it hard to stay calm while near Ava. Her sincere smile, her intelligence, and the innocence she had all made her feel like she was in a storm of emotions she did not recognize.
One day, Ava receives an invitation to a big corporate event. The event will be held in one of the tallest buildings in the city, and will be attended by important executives from various companies. Ava was mixed. On the one hand, he was honored and delighted to be chosen to represent *Delphi Enterprises*. But on the other hand, he also felt nervous and unsure if he could deal with the situation.
On the night before the event, Ava sat in her room, pondering. His eyes were fixed on the small object on the table. A simple pendant he found a few weeks ago. Just then, he found her on the floor while walking towards the meeting room. The pendant looked like it belonged to someone and Ava could not ignore it. He took it and kept it, hoping to find its owner.
But since then, Ava felt like the pendant had a deeper meaning. He felt like there was something connecting the locket with his feelings for Lucas. He was nervous, but also felt strange because of such thoughts.
The company event took place in a glittering atmosphere. Ava felt like she was immersed in the crowd, mesmerized by the beautiful cityscape at night. He tried to blend in with the guests present, but his heart was pounding as he found out that Lucas was also on the show.
Suddenly, Ava felt someone approaching her from behind. He turned around and found Lucas standing before him, dressed in an elegant black suit. His eyes exuded a profound and mysterious aura, but were also filled with a rarely seen warmth.
"Ava" she said in a calm voice.
Ava was surprised, but tried to stay calm. "Mrs. Blackwood, good night."
Lucas smiled, and Ava felt her heart beating faster. "Please, call me Lucas tonight. We're out of the office atmosphere."
Ava nodded, feeling awkward. "Good, Lucas."
They both talk about various things, from work to personal interests. Ava was comfortable talking to Lucas, and she was surprised how easily she opened up to him.
In the middle of their conversation, Lucas suddenly stopped and looked at Ava sharply. "What do you think of me, Ava?"
Ava was surprised by the question. He felt like Lucas could read his mind. He decided to be honest. "I think you have a lot of layers that are invisible to a lot of people. You may look cold, but I feel there's more inside of you."
Lucas was silent for a moment, his eyes locked onto Ava's eyes. "You're right" he said slowly. "I have reason to keep my distance. But, it seems like it's getting harder for me to stay cool near you."
Ava felt her heart jump, but she also felt anxious. "What do you mean?"
Lucas smiled gently. "I think you know what I mean, Ava."
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*The end of Episode 2*