Lexie’s nerves spiked as she signed her contract and was told she’d be meeting Aiden next. She’d done her homework on Brava—researched its architecture, studied Amadeus’s strategies. But Aiden dela Merced? He was a total mystery.
“Ma’am… can you give me any pointers about what to expect from Mr. Aiden? Is he… strict?” Lexie asked cautiously, afraid of sounding unprofessional.
“Oh, he’s the sweetest boy,” Florida said, her eyes twinkling. “He’s very affectionate.”
“Ah… so he’s a good boss?”
“Yes. As long as you keep it professional between you. But that’s the problem—the previous assistants struggled with that. He’s… irresistible. And he insists on keeping things professional. That’s why they all left in tears. So if you value your career, don’t fall for him.” Florida gave her hand a gentle squeeze as they stopped outside his office. “Good luck.”
“Come in!” called a deep, velvety male voice.
Lexie straightened her back like a warrior marching into battle. This is it. Stay focused. He’s just a man—not a reason to ruin your career.
The office had glass walls with a breathtaking view of Manila Bay. The air smelled faintly of flowers, and she was surprised to see rows of blooms by the window. A man stood there, holding a single rose. The sunlight streaming in obscured his face.
“Aiden,” Florida called softly.
The man turned. “Hello, Tita.”
He walked toward them, still holding the rose casually between his fingers as if he had all the time in the world. Lexie’s breath hitched.
He was tall—at least six feet—with a lean yet athletic build that spoke of someone who stayed fit not out of vanity, but habit. His slightly long, tousled hair fell just enough over his forehead to give him an effortlessly boyish look. The strands, dark as roasted coffee, gleamed under the warm office lights. His skin carried that natural sun-kissed warmth Filipinos were known for, and his sharp jawline softened only by the faintest hint of a smile that seemed permanently etched on his lips.
But it wasn’t just his looks—it was his presence. Unlike Amadeus’s suit-and-tie authority, Aiden exuded an easygoing charm in his rolled-up sleeves and open-collar shirt. No tie. His blazer was tossed carelessly over a chair, and his posture, though confident, was relaxed—like this glass-walled office overlooking Manila Bay was merely an extension of his living room.
His almond-shaped eyes, warm brown flecked with gold, crinkled slightly at the corners as he smiled. It wasn’t a practiced, corporate smile; it was the kind that felt real. Disarming. Dangerous.
Lexie swore she felt the lock on her heart rattle loose.
She wasn’t one to be easily impressed by men—not even Amadeus had stirred her like this. But Aiden? He radiated a boyish openness that drew her in. He looked like the kind of man who could charm a room full of strangers… and never have to try.
He hugged Florida and kissed her cheek like an overgrown child greeting his favorite aunt. “My most favorite woman in the world.”
“You flatter me,” Florida said with a laugh, though her eyes softened.
Aiden laughed heartily, and Lexie felt her chest tighten as if her heart had sprouted wings. He was the opposite of Amadeus’s cold intensity—light, cheerful, disarmingly charming.
Get it together, Lexie. You’re not a teenager. Stop swooning over a pretty face. He’s your boss, for crying out loud.
“And who’s this lovely lady?” he asked, turning his smile on her.
“Meet Lexie Santander,” Florida said.
Aiden took Lexie’s hand and brushed a kiss across her knuckles. “Aiden dela Merced, at your service.”
Lexie inhaled sharply. It was like a jolt of electricity shot through her entire body. She forced a polite smile. “It’s a pleasure to meet you, sir. I’m… your new assistant.”
His smile didn’t falter, but she noticed the flicker of disappointment in his eyes. “Ah. My brother hired one for me. He never fails to surprise.” His tone was light, but the sarcasm was unmistakable.
Florida added cheerfully, “He gave you his assistant.”
Aiden pressed a hand to his chest and let out a laugh, though it didn’t quite reach his eyes. “How touching. Amadeus dela Merced, ever the generous brother. Even sharing his assistant.”