Beauty from Ashes

A Series of Unfortunate Events

It had been two months since the Exec Team agreed to Kongpob's challenge. They'd been meeting weekly to discuss everyone's progress and so far, they were on target. Kongpob was pleasantly pleased but it wasn't without its challenges. He continued to clash with various members of the team, but none more than Arthit. No matter what the topic, the two would always come down on opposite sides. Lunch? One wanted to Korean BBQ while the other wanted sushi. Colors? If one liked black, the other liked white. Although it was frustrating for the Exec Team to watch, there were two people who loved every minute of it.

Rome glided into Kongpob's reception area and languidly took a seat next to Boonsri's desk. She pulled her glasses down on her nose and looked at the adorable young man.

"May I help you Rome?"

"Where is that gorgeous hunk of man you call your boss?" He smiled making his dimples indent even more. His naturally cherry-colored lips arched into the widest smile.

"You are shameless. Do you know that?" Boonsri took off her glasses and leaned back in her chair, crossing her legs.

"Oh, don't pretend you don't see it. That man is pure sex."

"You're exaggerating. I mean he's handsome, but I just can't see him like that. He's more like a big brother to me. He's taught me so much. His kindness knows no bounds. Mr. Suthiluck is a godsend for this office. Before he arrived, I was looking for another job, but he's given me a reason to stay."

"I would never leave. Mr. Rojnapat is the grumpiest man on the planet, but he's so yummy. Half of the reason I come to work is to see him." Rome intertwined his fingers and laid his head on them. He fluttered his eyes and sighed.

"Oh my God! You're like a lovestruck teenage girl. Better not let Mr. Rojnapat hear you talk about him like that. You'd be out of here."

"It would be worth it if he would manhandle me and throw me out. His hands look so strong. Have you noticed the tension between him and your boss?"

Boonsri looked around to make sure no one else was around and leaned forward.

"I know. Right! All they do is argue, but it's in the cutest way. Mr. Suthiluck never gets super mad. He just smiles to himself and walks away. It's the funniest thing."

"Funny like a romance. Can't you see it? Mark my words. Those two are made for each other. They must have two of the biggest..."

"Okay you two. That's enough." Apinya walked in putting a stop to the conversation. "If Kongpob or Arthit heard either of you, it wouldn't go well for either of you. Now stop it and get back to work. Boonsri follow me. Rome, your boss is looking for you."

Rome jumped up and ran towards his area waving over his shoulder.

Arthit was looking around the restaurant looking for someone when a muscular man in a well-tailored suit raised his hand and waved him over.

"There you are. This place is packed. I couldn't even see you when I walked in. Have you ordered us some drinks?"

"Just a couple of glasses of water. I want something stronger, but I have a court in the morning, so I need to leave in about an hour or so to go back to the office and prepare."

"That's fine. My asshole boss is having another meeting first thing in the morning, so I need to be back soon as well."

"Is he still being a jerk? Why don't' you just quit? You're a talented analyst. You can work anywhere."