LOVE THAT NEVER DIES

JADEN'S POV

My dad used to emphasize that the best way to learn your desired job is by closely observing someone in that role. He often said, "If you want to reach the top, you must begin from the bottom." His advice was to become indispensable to the CEO, to be their closest ally. By diving deep into their world and mastering their tasks, you'll become highly attractive to employers as soon as you graduate. I became indispensable, truly becoming the Right Hand. Bolt appeared in my office doorway, using it as a prelude to his own. His tone conveyed urgency, signaling trouble ahead.

"Hey, Chloe," he called.

I responded quietly, "Yes?"

"Can you be in my office in ten? There's something we need to talk about," he instructed.

And just like that, he exited, leaving me to ponder. I nodded, returning my focus to the laptop.

For four years, I have been with FinnMarketing Groups, serving as the CEO's Executive Assistant, a position I was fortunate to obtain and deeply appreciate. I love my job and have great respect for my boss, Bolt. Bolt is a tall man in his late fifties, about 6 feet tall, with broad shoulders, grey hair, and striking hazel eyes. Despite his age, he is as energetic as ever. He is incredibly diligent, approaching his work with unwavering seriousness and never settling until deals are closed. This dedication is why I respect him, and he respects me in return.

Anyways, closing my laptop and taking my iPad with me, I stood and walked out of my cabin.

When I walked into the room, I was immediately surrounded by computers and the latest technology. One wall was covered with screens showing constantly moving stock tickers. In front of me was a large desk with a big chair on one side and two sleek black leather chairs on the other. The windows offered a clear view of Seattle, but I was too nervous to enjoy it. At the far end of the office, two young men stood looking out the window. I didn't recognize them at first, but then one of them turned to look at me.

"Oh, great," I thought, already sensing my day was about to go downhill.

"Jaden Hazra Finn?" I finally blurted out, kicking myself for not recognizing the name sooner.

"Of course! Jaden Finn is Bolt Finn's older son. How could I have missed that?" I scolded myself internally as the connection finally clicked.

Jaden stands tall at least 6'4, with tousled dark hair, bronzed skin, and a rugged dark stubble accentuating his strong, square jawline. His broad shoulders fill out a sleek designer navy blue suit, worn over a crisp white shirt unbuttoned at the collar, offering a tantalizing glimpse of his chest. He strides confidently, exuding an aura of self-assurance. A subtle black piercing adorns his left earlobe. His deep blue eyes were captivating, like flowing rivers with a hint of icy sharpness beneath the surface. When he spotted me, a devilish smirk spread across his perfect mouth, and my throat went dry. Why was he even here? You might be wondering why I once respected him. Well, I spent a whole year working for him. But that year was a nightmare. He was bossy, arrogant, belittling, stubborn, irritable, and, above all, just plain awful. The saying "looks can be deceptive" fits him perfectly. He might look handsome on the outside, but underneath, he was a devil. "Hello, Miss Bella," he greeted me lazily, his deep voice resonating in my ears. He took a few long strides and was suddenly in front of me. One hand reached out while the other was casually tucked into his pocket, showing off a luxurious Rolex watch. I shook his hand, hiding my unease behind a calm exterior. He commented, "Seeing you again isn't exactly pleasant." His sharp tongue. "Mr. Finn, I feel the same way," I said, forcing a smile.

He chuckled softly and let go of my hand.

Suddenly, I heard footsteps. Bolt was coming towards me with a young man in tow. Unlike Bolt and this Idiot, he was about my height. His dark hair was still wet, giving him the appearance of someone fresh from a hair gel commercial. His skin was beautiful, silky and russet colored; his eyes were dark, set deep above the high planes of his cheekbones, dressed in a black suit and pale blue shirt and a black tie. He still had just a hint of childish roundness left around his chin. Altogether, a very pretty face. His dazzling face was friendly, open, a slight smile on his flawless lips. But his eyes were careful.

"You must be Chloe?" His sweet voice gladdened my heart.

I smiled and nodded.

"Hi," he said, reaching out his hand. I shook it and he introduced himself, "I'm Jason Finn."

Wait, is he Jaden's brother?

Wow.

"Hello, Mr. Finn," I greeted him. He responded warmly, "Please, call me Jason," and smiled. His friendly demeanor was a stark contrast to his brother's. Jaden always insisted on formalities. When I first started working for him, I mistakenly called him by his first name. He promptly corrected me, saying, "I don't know about your past experiences, but we maintain a formal relationship here, Miss Bella. You'll address me as Mr. Finn or Sir. The choice is yours."

"Hey, Jason," I said, smiling as we greeted each other.

"Hey, Chloe," he replied, his voice rough.

"Want to find some seats?" Bolt proposed.

We settled comfortably onto the large black leather couch nestled in the corner of the room. Bolt and Jason took seats directly in front of me, separated only by a small glass desk. Mr. Bastard joined me, sitting just a few inches away.

"Alright," Bolt began, "You've already met Jaden and Jason, and you've worked with Jaden before, right?"

"Yes, sir, for a year," I replied.

"One of the most unpleasant experiences of my life. I never should've agreed to that," Jaden interjected.

He couldn't resist displaying his remarkable lack of manners. He's consistently unpredictable." "I—"

"Bolt growled at Jaden to behave, and I responded with a reassuring smile. Despite Jaden's tense jaw, I was relieved he remained silent. Turning to Chloe, Bolt expressed gratitude for her four years of dedicated service, emphasizing the immense value he places on her work. Chloe beamed with pride at his words."

"He praised her unwavering performance before Jaden rudely cut in, souring Chloe's admiration for Bolt. His interruption was a stark reminder of her disdain for him. Bolt hesitated, coughed lightly, then struggled to articulate his thoughts. This was unlike him; he typically exuded confidence. So, what was causing this stumble now, after four years of flawless communication?" "What's on your mind, Bolt?" I inquired.

"I want you to marry my son," he dropped the bomb.

And my body went cold.

Uh...what?