Falling For My Ex's Dad (Clarissa and Gabriel)

Clairessa's POV

Chapter 19: The Move

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I angrily tossed my box of belongings onto the table, scattering files and other items across the surface. The office was spacious, with a giant window offering a stunning view of the city. It was much more impressive than my former small office—exactly the dream office I had imagined countless times in the past.

But as much as I admired the space, I was even more upset with Gabriel's authoritative behavior. The tender man I had seen over the weekend was gone, replaced by the cold, commanding version I knew all too well.

He didn't even bother to ask how I was doing. Instead, he demanded that I relocate to an office on his floor. Maybe I should be excited to be on the CEO's floor, but I knew it was all about control. Gabriel wanted to prove that he could still order me around as though I was a teenager. I struggled to understand why he was so upset, enough to come looking for me in my office on the second floor—a place I was sure he had never visited before.

I reached into the box, pulling out files and the rest of my belongings, but I paused when I came across a tiny, sentimental box-a gift from my parents when I got accepted into college. I held it close to my heart, remembering how it had become my good luck charm. I carefully placed it on my desk, making sure it looked just right.

My parents had worked so hard to send me to college. They had always been supportive of my career and proud of me. I wouldn't be where I was without them, but I couldn't bear to think about what they would say if they knew I was no longer their sweet little Claire but a woman now attracted to my ex's father.

Instead of feeling guilt, all I felt was an untamed passion that longed to be explored. Gone was the good girl they had raised. I used to believe in fairy tales, dreaming of a simple, quiet life with the man I loved and a family of my own, just like my parents had.

But now, all of that seemed so naive, replaced by a raging desire for... Gabriel.

13:42 Rae, 11 Feb M

Chapter 19: The Move

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God, how could someone infuriate and excite me at the same time? The combination was maddening.

“Hi, Clairessa,” Sandy's voice pulled me out of my thoughts.noveldrama

“Hello, Sandy,” I replied, quickly sitting upright.

"I came to check in on you and see how you're settling into your new office," she said with a smile, gesturing to the room.

"I'm... still finding my footing, honestly," I admitted, my voice uncertain. “This is all so sudden."

“It's alright. I'm sure you'll settle in just fine,” she reassured me, her expression warm.

"I hope so," I said, returning a weak smile.

“Listen, Clairessa,” she continued, taking a seat in front of my desk, “you're smart, and you're doing a great job. Many staff members have been here for years and never caught Mr. Storm's attention like you have. That means you're doing something right."

I nodded, pondering her words. Did I have Gabriel's attention? Or was it just my app?

“And speaking of your app, great work on that," Sandy added. "I'm impressed by your intelligence and

dedication. I'm sure Mr. Storm is as well. That must be why he moved you to his floor. Just keep working hard, and you'll do fine."

“Thanks, Sandy,” I said, genuinely grateful for her encouragement.

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13:43 Ke, 11 Feb M

Chapter 19: The Move

“Anytime,” she smiled back. “Mr. Storm informed me that you'll now be working closely with him and handling tasks directly assigned by him. So, brace yourself."

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"What?" I blurted out, shocked. When Gabriel threatened to oversee my work, I thought he was bluffing.

"I'm guessing you didn't know," she said, raising an eyebrow. "Think of this as an early promotion and a great opportunity. Only a few junior staff members ever get the chance to work directly with the CEO. I'll assist you in any way I can, but I'm sure you'll do well."

Everything was happening so fast. I was going to be working closely with Gabriel, the very man who had threatened me. This was more than I had bargained for.

Sandy stood up. "I have to go now, but remember, Mr. Storm doesn't tolerate insubordination or laziness. Just follow his rules to the letter, and you'll be fine. Good luck... and congrats on your app being chosen.”

As my office door shut, I collapsed into my seat, trying to process everything. I knew Gabriel had invited me to meet with potential investors, but I hadn't realized that my app had been officially selected. I assumed the trip was a test, and after the Marco incident, I thought Gabriel would resent me. After all, he did accuse me of flirting with that creep. But I was wrong. He had cared for me throughout the trip, making sure I was okay, and now that was all I could think about.

Reaching into my bag, I pulled out my laptop, placing it on the desk as I began going through my emails.

I had a new email from Mr. Gabriel Storm.

It was a bunch of files that I had to review and give a report on by the end of the day. My eyes scanned through the pages in disbelief. There was no way I was going to be done by the end of the day, especially since it was already past lunch.

This was a two-day workload. He did want to punish me... My hands slid around my shoulders to massage the knots, and I let out a soft moan of relief.

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13:43 Ke, 11 Feb 40

Chapter 19: The Move

Gabriel wanted to break me, but I wasn't going to let him have his way. Despite everything, I was on my way to funding my dream. Maybe the office move wasn't so bad after all. I was closer to Gabriel, which meant I was closer to getting my revenge.

13:43 Re, 11 Feb

Chapter 20:1 Refuse To Be Broken

Clairessa's POV