The CEO’s Hidden Love Midnight Temptations and Deep Desires

Suddenly finding herself diving back into the corporate world, Dorothy had to admit, the transition felt a bit awkward. But it wasn't fear holding her back, nor reluctance.

After all, to live is to work, right?

She spent the entire night poring over the documents and project brief Kevin had sent her, highlighting key sections, scribbling notes, and cross-referencing information until the sky hinted at dawn. Only a few hours remained before her meeting at Lopez Corporation, and Dorothy finally allowed herself to collapse into bed, setting the alarm for a short nap.

It felt like her eyes had only just closed when the alarm blared to life.

Quickly, she slipped into a sleek business suit, added a touch of makeup to freshen up her look, grabbed her laptop, and bolted for the towering Lopez Corporation building.

Having only spent a brief stint there before, familiar faces were scarce. Scanning the project team, the sight of Austin still at his desk was an unexpected comfort.

"Ms. Sanchez?" Austin's surprise was evident, though not overwhelming—he had seen the project roster yesterday, after all.

He figured, given Dorothy's history with Mr. Lopez, she might not be here to actually work—perhaps just a nominal position.

Dorothy caught the speculative, somewhat gossipy look in his eyes and quickly pulled him aside.

"I don't know many people here, just you. Please, keep my past to yourself, okay?" she implored.

"Don't worry about it! Why would I say anything?" he chuckled. After all, this was the woman with a complex history with Everett Lopez himself. Even with liquid courage, he wouldn't dare to gossip.

"You're misunderstanding me. My relationship with Everett isn’t..."

"I get it, I get it! Honestly, Ms. Sanchez, I always thought you were drop-dead gorgeous and super capable at your job. Just a bit aloof, you know? When Lane was chasing after you, I couldn't figure out why you weren't interested. He's a catch—handsome and wealthy! But then I saw you with Mr. Lopez, and it all clicked. I mean, who wouldn't choose him over Lane?" Copyright Nôv/el/Dra/ma.Org.

Dorothy was speechless.

"Mr. Lopez is like a Greek god! I get weak-kneed just seeing him from a distance, and you are dating him..."

Dorothy quickly clamped her hand over his mouth.

"Stop, just stop. Everett and I are over."

"What?"

"So, let's not tie his name to mine anymore, okay? People might get the wrong idea. We're here to work, and the project comes first."

Austin stood there, dumbstruck, before finally managing to stammer out, "Ms. Sanchez, is there someone even better than Mr. Lopez pursuing you?"

She looked at him, torn between amusement and exasperation.

"No, I'm just not focusing on relationships right now."

"Got it! Is it because Mr. Lopez was too busy for you? You're upset?" Austin’s eyes practically sparkled at the mention of Everett.

"Ms. Sanchez, I'm so lucky to work in the same department as you. If I've ever been disrespectful, I didn't mean it—please don't take it to heart!"

Dorothy forced a smile, feeling the irony of the situation. Austin was completely oblivious to the seriousness of her words.

"Let's just get back to work," she sighed.

"OK, boss lady!"

"Austin!"