Heart Over Heels

Chapter 7

The elevator doors opened with a soft chime, and I stepped into the sleek, modern office of Max’s company. The large glass windows filled the room with sunlight, and the open layout made the space feel both airy and intimidating.

I had never worked in an office quite like this before. I felt a knot tighten in my stomach as my shoes clicked on the polished floor, carrying me toward Max’s office.

It had only been a week since I had taken the job as his assistant. Max had been kind, professional, and understanding, but I still couldn’t shake the sense of unease that had settled over me like a heavy fog.

I had spent years building my writing career, and now, stepping back into a corporate world, I felt out of place, like a puzzle piece that didn’t quite fit. I wasn’t used to this environment, and it felt as though everyone around me could sense it.

Max’s office door was slightly ajar, and I knocked lightly before stepping inside. He was sitting at his desk, his attention focused on his computer screen. He looked up when I entered, his face softening with a smile.

"Emma, good morning," he greeted, his voice warm and welcoming. "How are you settling in?"

I forced a smile, trying to mask the anxiety swirling in my chest. "I’m getting there. Still adjusting."

He nodded, his gaze lingering on me for a moment, as if he could sense the tension beneath my calm exterior. "Take your time. If there’s anything you need or if something’s not working for you, let me know."

I appreciated his understanding, but it didn’t do much to ease the anxious thoughts that were constantly swirling in my mind. My chest felt tight, my thoughts racing as I sat down in front of his desk. I wasn’t sure if I could handle this—being in an office, surrounded by people I barely knew, feeling the weight of expectations I wasn’t sure I could meet.

He began outlining the tasks for the day, his voice smooth and steady, but I found it hard to focus. My mind kept drifting, spiraling into a loop of overthinking.

I didn’t socialize easily, and the idea of having to engage with my new colleagues filled me with dread. I had always been more comfortable in my own world, behind the safety of my laptop, where I could control every aspect of my environment.

Now, in this bustling office, with its constant buzz of phones ringing, people chatting, and meetings being held, I felt like I was drowning. I could feel my breath quickening, my palms growing clammy as I tried to keep up with hiss words.

"Emma?" Hiss voice broke through my thoughts, snapping me back to the present.

"Sorry," I said quickly, shaking my head to clear it. "I just... zoned out for a second."

He frowned, concern flickering in his eyes. "Are you alright? You seem a little off today."

I forced another smile, trying to push down the rising wave of panic. "I’m fine. Just... getting used to everything."

He studied me for a moment, his expression unreadable, before nodding. "Okay. But if you need to talk, or if something’s bothering you, don’t hesitate to say something. You don’t have to handle everything on your own."

His words were kind, but I couldn’t bring myself to open up. I didn’t want to seem weak or incapable, especially not in front of a man. I had already convinced myself that this job was a mistake, that I wasn’t cut out for this corporate world, but the last thing I wanted was for Max to think the same.

"I’ll be fine," I said, her voice steadier than I felt. "Just adjusting."

He nodded, though the concern in his eyes didn’t fade. "Alright. Let me know if you need anything."