Love and Lies

Chapter 10

Alex's POV

The morning light filtered through the expansive windows of the lab, casting long shadows over the polished floors. Approaching Samantha's workstation, I noted her composed demeanor. Her greeting was respectful, her voice steady despite the undercurrent of nervous energy I sensed in her. I acknowledged her with a nod, my gaze assessing her with a critical eye.

"Good morning, Samantha," I said in an authoritative tone, my gaze lingering a touch too long on her captivating blue eyes. There was a magnetism there that drew me in, a depth I could get lost in forever. The little mole under her lips, a beauty spot really, was like a secret invitation, something only I could appreciate. When she'd purse her lips in confusion, the way she did now, it sent a delicious shiver down my spine. I ached to lean in, to bridge the space between us, but the realization that she was already in a committed relationship held me back. A pang of disappointment stabbed at me, a fierce possessiveness I knew I had no right to feel.

"We have critical tasks to accomplish today. Follow me," I said, leading her to the lab. Despite my efforts to focus on the work, my mind was filled with thoughts of her, thoughts I was trying hard to forget.

"Samantha, I want to inform you in advance that we will be collecting some herbs from the forest for testing tomorrow," I informed her.

"Okay, sir," she replied quietly, her gaze fixed on the floor. Why wouldn't she look into my eyes when she spoke? I yearned to see those beautiful blue eyes meet mine.

"Let's start by testing the purity of these herbs," I instructed, and we began our work. As we progressed, I found myself stealing glances at her from time to time, trying to maintain professionalism despite my growing distraction.

As we were working with chemicals, she accidentally knocked over a beaker, causing a loud cracking sound. In an instant, she was in my arms. I had instinctively pulled her to my chest, one arm around her neck and the other around her waist.

"Are you okay? You're not hurt anywhere, right?" I asked, my eyes scanning her arms and face for any signs of injury.

"I'm fine," she replied, looking at me with those captivating blue eyes.

"You need to be more careful," I said, my tone a bit harsher than intended. "You could have gotten hurt."

What if she had sustained a serious injury? Why couldn't she be more cautious? But then the realization hit me—who was I to speak to her like that? I wasn't her husband. I released my hold on her and stepped back, noticing the confusion in her eyes.

"Wash your hands and step outside for a few minutes while I clean this up," I instructed.

She nodded and moved out of the room.

I placed my hands over my face, grappling with my emotions. What is happening to me? She is making me weak. I have to regain control over myself.