Sturniolo Tower (Matt Sturniolo)

14. Broken Record

I tapped my foot on the edge of my office chair while I tap on the keyboard, trying to get my work done. I looked at the door and saw Matt walk in.

He didn't smile like he normally does, he blinked at me like he was empty. So empty I couldn't read what was going on in his head.

He put the file on my desk and took a deep breath. "Until Nate gets out of the meeting, you're in charge. You can stay in my office if you want" he said, not in sweet voice.

I'd guess he was using his CEO tone with me, something he does when we're not alone or when he's pissed off and doesn't know where else to put the anger.

I nodded. "Are you okay? You seem tense" I said, trying to read his eyes that gave me nothing.

His eyes were dark.

He nodded. "Fine, just sore" he said and I knew he was lying. I know when he's eyes are laced with physical pain and now this isn't the case. I know him well enough.

I titled my head to the side and raised an eyebrow. "I'll see you at home"

"Matt" I stood up and walked around my desk to him. " what's wrong?"

"Y/N, please" he sighed . "I'm just running some errands before going home and relaxing. I don't feel good...make sure the portfolios are complete before you leave" he said, gesturing to the files on my desk and I nodded.

"Drive safe, I love you" I leaned up and kissed the edges of his lips.

He hummed, before stepping away from me and out of the office.

I sat in Matt's office and went over the fact he doesn't seem himself, he's a workaholic, he never leaves work without a real reason. Since the accident he's been more closed off, like he didn't want to relive certain experiences. I understand it's hard but I'm starting to feel like he's pushing me away.

I sighed, resting my cheek in the palm of my hand while Nate walked in, smiling.

"You don't look happy" Nate pouted. "Do I need to round up everyone in the office and talk to whoever made you sad?"

I laughed and shook my head.

Nate shrugged. "Anything for Matt's girl"

I rolled my eyes and scoffed. "Yeah, so he says"

"I'm sensing the sarcasm"

I shrugged, at this point I think Matt being withdrawn managed to affect my mood. "He's just...I don't know what to do with him. I know he's grieving but he's shutting me out. I've been walking on eggshells since we got back"

"I'm the worst for advice" Nate admitted.

I raised my eyebrow. "You don't say?"

"Ouch...I deserve that" he laughed. "I mean, he doesn't come across as someone who opens up to people"

"He doesn't, but he's never this withdrawn from me...tell me what to do" I looked up at him, confused at what to do with Matt.

"I can't tell you what to do, it's not my place and I'm bad at advice...maybe tell him you love him and you're here for him?"

"I have...He left without warning today, you know that doesn't happen"

Nate nodded. "Give him time, he'll come around. He loves you more than anything" he smiled. "He's just been through a lot"

"I know" I sighed. "You're in charge now since you're done with the meetings, enjoy" I smiled and he rolled his eyes.

"How exciting" he said sarcastically. "But now I can flirt with Anna without the boss knowing"