Chapter 16: Give a chance to the feeling

**STEVEN WOLKER’S POV**

*At the time to leave…*

Sophie prefers to return with the driver, and I go in my car since I would go straight to the company while she would stop by home, claiming to need to pick up some things. The work schedule on that day would only be in the afternoon.

I thought she might be planning some surprise to apologize for the previous night. I was already in my office, constantly glancing at the door. She didn't come in, but I heard voices, and one of them mentioned Sophie's name.

I went out, and when I looked at what was happening, Sophie was handing out the cake she made in the morning with my grandmother to some employees, including the one she was talking to during the work break.

"Thank you, Sophie. You're very kind," he said.

"Delicious, I loved it," the secretary commented.

She didn't even pay attention to my presence. Afterward, our eyes met, and she smiled, especially at that employee. Irritated, I went back into my office and slammed the door.

I sat back at my desk, taking a deep breath and containing my disappointment when my phone rang. I looked at the screen, and Nathaly's name appeared. The anger I felt towards Sophie gave me an idea, and I immediately answered the phone.

"Hi... Nathaly!"

_"Steven, how are you? I called to remind you that you owe me dinner"._

"True, sorry for not getting back to you, as I've been swamped lately," this rush was called Sophie.

_"But the offer still stands, okay?"_ she affirmed.

"Tonight, then?"

She was silent for a few seconds, realizing that this dinner might be a surprise for suddenly scheduling it.

_"For me, it's perfect!"_

What I saw infuriated me; there was no need for Sophie to pamper that employee. Her actions made me think she was interested in him. Just remembering it irritated me, so I would accept Nathaly's invitation, even if it wasn't my absolute will.

We scheduled the time, and I hung up the phone.

My thoughts make me reminisce about when we met. That night was incredible, the best sex I've ever had in my entire life. Just recalling Sophie's body, I am excited and overwhelmed by desire. However, I can't succumb to a trivial feeling.

_____________________________

**SOPHIE MADSON’S POV

The way Steven slammed his office door made me realize he had been quite stressed lately. I take a deep breath and think about what could be done. I must develop something to improve and strengthen our relationship, even though the first attempt ended badly.

Everyone loved the cake, and I returned to my work, which lasted throughout the afternoon. Before leaving, I went to his office, knocked on the door, and entered after hearing permission.

"Hi, Steven..." I began observing him reading some papers. "I'm heading home; will you be going now? I could catch a ride... of course, if it's possible."

The driver had returned home, and I'll also try to figure out that somewhat troubled relationship. It's worth a try. Or better yet, it does cost, and the cost is my mental sanity. But it's a price to be paid.

"I won't be going now; I'll stay late. You can go," he informs.

"But..." I try to argue, but I'm interrupted.

"You can ask the driver to do that for you, Sophie. Don't worry about it."

He was signing some papers, and I opened my mouth to say something but gave up. I returned to my office, gathered all my belongings, and left the company. I decided to take a taxi back to his house.

During the ride, I ponder how difficult it is not to be evasive and ask him, "Why do you act this way?" He needs to learn to communicate. He is always introspective, closed, and guarded. He doesn't speak his mind, not about life. Steven is a great wall, hard to overcome.

"Ma'am, just call me, and I'll be there wherever you need me," the driver asserts upon seeing me get out of the taxi.

"Alright, I was a bit in a hurry."

I reassure him and head inside the house. I feel exhausted, not just in my body but also in my mind. I wish pleasant moments like that dinner were more frequent.

After a hot shower, I put on something comfortable, and when I go downstairs, I think about preparing a new dinner with a different dish without allergenic ingredients. We can get closer and relive that night at the hotel. I feel drawn, and I decide not to oppose it. Steven has an enchanting essence, and I must break down these barriers.

I will try to bring him closer to me. This marriage could take a more promising turn.

"Need help, ma'am?" the employee offers.

"No, thank you once again. I miss cooking; in my first marriage... I mean, I always did that in my previous marriage," I chuckle.

"If you require anything, I'll be at your disposal," she turns away but returns immediately. "Ma'am, I need to tell you something."

"Go ahead..."

"Mr. Wolker asked me if I informed you about the allergy." She begins to recount what happened and surprises me by kneeling before me. "I lied, ma'am. Forgive me; I didn't mean any harm, for God's sake. I have two daughters to raise, and I feared he'd fire me."

Even though surprised by the revelation, I look at her, who has teary eyes and a desperate look. I feel the sincerity in her words, and my heart is not cruel enough to judge her.

"Alright, don't worry about it. Stand up; don't do that!" I hold her hands, and she stands up with my help.

"Thank you, ma'am. God bless you!" She wipes away the tears rolling down her face.

"Let's pretend this didn't happen. Besides, I now know about this allergy. That's all that matters!"

She seems to relieve the anguish and leaves after I comfort her. I take a deep breath, imagining how angry he must be, and decide to converse honestly during dinner tonight.

I prepare everything, the main course and an appetizer as well. I set the table, putting in extra effort this time, with candles and a romantic atmosphere. He won't resist this time, and I'm strangely determined to make this night unforgettable.

I look at my clothes and realize they don't suit the occasion. I go upstairs, put on a tight red dress and high-heeled shoes, let my previously tied hair loose, and apply light makeup. Finally, I look at my reflection in the mirror and like what I see.

I go down to the dining room and give it a final check to ensure everything is perfect. I clap my hands, euphoric and anxious for this moment. I open a broad smile, feeling ready to give my best. I looked at the clock on my phone; it was eight o'clock, so he could arrive at any moment.

I go to the living room, sitting on the sofa eagerly, constantly looking at the door.

He has yet to arrive!

I take a deep breath and look at the clock again; it's almost ten o'clock. I decide to call him. The phone rings several times, and he doesn't answer. I feel sad because I imagine he must be with someone, not to have returned until this hour.

After a long time, I gave up waiting and went upstairs to bed, feeling disappointed, like a fool. I lie down, just taking off my sandals.

Tears roll down my face, and I feel like an idiot for believing I could take a step in this story. I don't know what made me think that we could have a romantic moment.

I close my eyes, holding back a sob, and end up falling asleep.