The CEO's Match

Homecoming

I looked at Nova, my voice carrying a note of warning that I hoped she could sense. "Nova, don't test me. I already feel like kissing you. Don't make me actually do it when you need to be recovering."

The admission was out before I could fully control it, and the weight of my words hung heavily in the air. I could see the surprise in her eyes, mingled with a spark of something else-curiosity, perhaps, or a hint of mischief. Her teasing had clearly affected me more than I'd anticipated, and now the line between professional concern and personal desire felt dangerously blurred.

Nova's expression softened, and she gave a small, understanding smile. "Alexander, you don't have to hold back because of me. I'm okay. Just... be honest with me."

Her words struck a chord, but I still struggled to reconcile the need to be professional with the unexpected surge of emotion I was feeling. "It's not about holding back, Nova. It's about making sure you're okay. That's my priority."

I took a deep breath, trying to refocus. "For now, just concentrate on getting better. I'll be here to help however you need."

As I sat back, I could see Nova's gaze lingering on me, her smile tinged with something more meaningful than before. It was clear that our dynamic had shifted, and navigating it would require a delicate balance. For now, I was determined to respect her recovery and work through the complexities of our relationship as they came.

Nova's pov

Finally being discharged from the hospital felt like a weight had been lifted, even though I was still feeling the aftermath of the past few weeks. Alexander had insisted on coming over to my apartment to help me settle in, which surprised me. He'd even made it clear that he would be sleeping on the couch to ensure I was safe and recovering properly.

As I walked into my apartment, the familiar surroundings brought a sense of comfort, despite everything that had happened. I glanced over at the couch where Alexander was setting up a makeshift bed. It was strange to see him in such a domestic setting, but his presence was oddly reassuring.

"Thank you for this," I said, watching him arrange the blanket with meticulous care. "You really didn't have to stay."

Alexander looked up, his expression serious but softened by a touch of concern. "I know. But I want to make sure you're okay. You've been through a lot, and I want to help however I can."

I moved to the kitchen and started preparing something light to eat, hoping it would help me regain some energy. I could hear Alexander's footsteps as he walked around, making sure everything was in order.

As I worked, I couldn't help but steal glances at him. There was something strangely comforting about having him around, even if the circumstances were less than ideal. I appreciated his efforts and the fact that he genuinely seemed to care.

When I finally settled on the couch with a cup of tea, Alexander joined me, sitting down across from me with a relaxed posture. "You should try to get some rest," he said. "I'll be here if you need anything."

I nodded, feeling a mix of gratitude and lingering tension. "I will. And... thanks again, Alexander. For everything."

He gave me a small, reassuring smile. "Anytime, Nova. Just focus on getting better."

As the evening wore on, I felt a sense of calm settle over me. Alexander's presence was a reminder of how things could be different, of the potential for understanding and healing between us. I knew there was still a lot to work through, but for now, having him here provided a small comfort in the midst of everything.

I had tried to settle into bed, but sleep eluded me. The apartment was quiet except for the soft sound of snoring coming from the living room. I knew Alexander was deep asleep, and I felt a pull to check on him. I slipped out of bed and padded softly into the living room, moving towards the couch where he lay.

As I leaned down, my gaze fell on his face. There was no denying it; he looked undeniably handsome, even with the faint lines of stress etched across his features. I caught myself smiling at the thought, annoyed at my own admission. "Why am I even thinking that?" I muttered under my breath.

I reached out and gently moved a strand of hair away from his face. "Screw it," I said quietly to myself, "he's asleep. I might as well say it. You are handsome, even though I still don't like that you fired me. But I do appreciate that you're making up for it."

I was startled when I felt his hand move. Before I could react, he gently pulled me down onto the couch beside him. My heart skipped a beat as I found myself snuggled close to him. He placed the blanket over both of us, his touch warm and surprisingly comforting. His head rested against my shoulder, and I could feel the steady rise and fall of his breathing.

"Speaking too long will wake someone," his voice was low and husky, so deep that it sent a shiver down my spine. "Speaking like an angel will wake you up. Confessing to someone you don't like at the moment is sweet."

I blinked in surprise, trying to process his words. Before I could respond, he added with a smirk, "As a punishment for waking me up, you have to sleep with me on the couch."

I rolled my eyes, a smile tugging at my lips despite myself. "Oh, really? Is that so?"

"Absolutely," he replied, his voice warm and amused.

I settled in beside him, the warmth of his body and the softness of the couch making me feel oddly secure. Despite the situation, I couldn't help but enjoy the closeness. It was a strange but welcome shift from the tension and distance that had characterized our recent interactions.

As I drifted off to sleep, wrapped in the warmth of the blanket and Alexander's presence, I couldn't shake the feeling that things were starting to change between us. Whether for better or worse, I wasn't sure yet, but for now, I was content to let the moment carry me into a restful sleep.