This book became popular on Amazon and Goodreads under the title “Zhenya”. And YouTube viewers know this book under the title… Jenya & August | Mistook for a girl
Zhenya is a beautiful young man with a refined and androgynous appearance. Zhenya is almost 20 years old. Since birth, Zhenya’s parents did not want to see him, so he spent all his free time studying. Instead of vacations, he attended courses at prestigious universities, practiced ballet, studied culinary arts, and pursued everything else his parents could think of. As a result, by the age of 20, Zhenya no longer understood who he was. No one knows how his life would have turned out if it hadn’t been for his first boss. Zhenya got a job as a simple courier at a major investment company called “Inversia,” owned by an impulsive and stunning 27-year-old man named August Stark. Zhenya’s beauty drives people around him crazy, and Stark was no exception. However, unlike others, August never doubted his choice, and in the pursuit of love, he broke through walls. This is a love novel in the LGBT (slash, yaoi, gay) genre with original illustrations.
Warning! This book contains 18+ content. Therefore, if you are under this age, please leave this page.
Chapter 1
I was not lucky to be born a man. I was still in my mother’s womb when the doctor told my parents that I probably wouldn’t survive. I was not developing well, and for all seven months, my mother was given various frightening diagnoses. As a result, my parents were literally ready to give up on me. I was predicted to be disabled at the very least.
But I turned out to be a resilient creature and knocked on the door of life before it was time to be born. I was practically lifeless, with thin little arms and legs, and a body the size of an orange. My mother almost gave up on me, but at the last moment, as she now tells the story, I opened my heavenly blue eyes and looked at her so touchingly that her tormented soul burst into tears. So she changed her mind about giving up on me.
That’s how my existence began.
Hello, world! My name is Zhenya, I am neither a man nor a woman. I am a men locked in a frail body, who is not interested in anything masculine, or a woman who, for some reason, was given male genitalia by the heavens. In school, my classmates persistently called me “it”.
Look, it is going to the classmate! It will complain again!
Hey, it, you can’t go to the men’s locker room! Only men are allowed there!
It, will you give the money right away, or will you suck someone first?!
That’s how my weekdays went. The world is cruel, and it proved it to me from the first seconds of our acquaintance. After enduring all the necessary years in school, I enrolled in a correspondence department at the university, majoring in “Business Management,” and moved out of my parents’ house into my own apartment, which they gave me for my 19 birthday. This apartment was under renovation for a long time and now, I’m almost 20 and I finally moved my things here. Yes, at least in this I was lucky – I have wealthy parents. I always felt that they tried so hard not to see me again, leaving their own child with a faceless nanny and immersing themselves in work.
But, that’s a story for later. The most important thing is that I’m free now! And as if fate was waiting for it, on the very first day of my official departure from my parents, fate gave me two whole gifts. Although, I don’t really know whether to be happy about them or not.
The first one is a job. It’s an ordinary position as a courier in a large company. “Deliver, bring.” But in my case, it’s a huge stroke of luck. With my frail build, I am of average height for a man, and ambiguous appearance, where some mistake me for a guy and others genuinely for a young woman, I respond to either.
I’m Zhenya.
The second gift, which I’m afraid to even think about…
Today, I met Him. For all of my almost 20 years, I didn’t know who I was or who I was supposed to like. Women or men. I was not drawn to either. When you’re afraid of your body, afraid to accept yourself, your essence, you’re afraid of your thoughts. You’re afraid of yourself and for yourself.
You don’t have time for love.
And then today. My first day at work. My first day of freedom. My first day of meeting my boss. I’ve never seen such men before. Snotty, perpetually unkempt, sweaty classmates who couldn’t handle the signs of their own maturity never appealed to me. And woman’s simply couldn’t appeal to me as women’s.
Because I don’t feel like a man.
My boss. The first person who treated me like a human being. His deep blue eyes were studying me with interest, as I stood there in my silly jeans and t-shirt, right in front of him. I have nothing to hide. I am what I am. And he is simply a god. My god. Now.
I was terrified when He rose from behind his majestic desk and his athletic figure, hidden under the fabric of a perfect business suit, loomed over me like an unbreakable rock.
“As you say, what’s your name? “His commanding voice took away my legs. I don’t feel them the same way I don’t feel the ground beneath me.
“Zhenya, ” I said it in a half-whisper.
Out of habit, mechanically. I never say my last name. Because I still don’t know who I am.
He approached me. He came so close, closer than anyone ever has. I ceased to exist in the moment when his index finger touched my chin and raised it forcefully. His thumb traced my upper lip.
“You’re trembling, ” he said nonchalantly.
“I’m afraid of you, ” I whispered, my lips brushing against his hard finger, which he still hadn’t removed from my face.
“Don’t be afraid, I won’t do anything to harm you. “
His male grin, pressed against his hard cheek, was the last thing I saw before…
He suddenly leaned over me and kissed me straight on the lips!!!
In the next moment, I was already flying out of his office, slamming the metal door shut in horror! My heart was pounding out of my chest, my hands were shaking, and my breath threatened to stop at any second, knocking me down right here in the majestic hall, where every day, his subordinates come to report to him for their work. Where just a few minutes ago, I, Zhenya, walked, not even suspecting what awaited me behind that very door against which I am now leaning in exhaustion, praying to God to let me wake up.
And realize that it was a dream.
A terrible. And yet beautiful dream. In which we first met. Yes! – I snapped at him, still on edge. – I… I’m normal! How dare you? Do you think it’s okay to make fun of me just because I look like a woman?! You… you’re just like everyone else! You made a mistake, and then you decided to keep it going!
“If you’re talking about what happened this morning in my office, then I didn’t make a mistake. I never doubted for a second that you were a guy,” he responded.
“What?!!”
The shocking revelation shattered my consciousness. He knew I was a guy? Even this morning?!! So…
“You understood me correctly,” he replied.
My God returned to his position as driver on his seat and thoughtfully looked at the dark street illuminated by only one dim streetlight. His strong body under that perfectly white shirt with an unbuttoned collar was in absolute tranquility, unlike mine – my heart seemed to want to jump out of me and fly away, at least to the moon!
You…you knew I was a guy and still kissed me? – a stupid question slipped from my tongue before I could even understand that I had blurted out something foolish.
No, not like that. I kissed you because I knew you were a guy, – my God corrected me firmly.
Why? – I stared at him stupidly, unable to connect one thought to another in my head.
Zhenya, you understand perfectly well. But it’s time for you to go. See you at work tomorrow, – August pressed an invisible button on his side and my door unlocked. – Good night.
I turned silently towards the exit and, unsteadily placing my feet on the asphalt, pulled myself outside. I closed the door of that huge sports car the color of His eyes and, uncertainly, headed towards my entrance. I heard a quiet growl from the departing metal horse behind me and didn’t turn around. I don’t know how to react to what just happened in that car a second ago.
He said that I understood perfectly well. But I don’t understand! This crazy day, when I waited every second, searched for Him with my eyes, breathed heavily, and recoiled in horror when it all happened…
What am I supposed to understand?
No, I’m not like that! I’m normal! It’s all just a delusion, and he’s just playing with me. As usual, he argued with someone and now he’s doing it by force. And now he’s off celebrating! Yes, of course, he argued with that big guy and was laughing at me! That’s it! Absolutely.
Satisfied with my drunken explanation of the strange circumstances, I finally made it to my apartment. And immediately fell asleep. Right there, fully clothed, without even undressing. I felt a little better, thanks to my invented, successful explanation.
However, as my consciousness sank into sweet darkness, a bad thought flashed through my mind that August was completely sincere, that it wasn’t a game, that it really happened.
Latching onto that suspicion by its transparent tail, I plunged into the darkness and switched off until morning.
Chapter 2
“Hey, what are you standing there for? Is August in his office?”
Someone’s booming, smoke-filled voice made me jump in surprise. I nodded in fear and stepped back from the door. An enormous, unkempt fat man in a business suit, albeit an expensive one, but very ill-fitting, looked me up and down disdainfully and snorted irritably as he walked into the very same office from which I had just shamefully fled.
Yes, my boss’s name is Mr. August Stark. Of course, I know who owns the firm I was hired by. He is 27 years old and single. Everyone knows him. Okay, the financial part of his business, at least. For my peers, it’s important that he owns all the coolest nightclubs in town. Everyone in my class dreamed of working for him. Everyone in my course still dreams of working for him. For the simple reason that he is not only divinely beautiful, but legends are told about his success in business. Everything he touches turns to gold. Last year, two popular magazines named him “Groom of the Year.” And a business publication called him the brightest star in business world. Young, modern, progressive.
Lost in thoughts about him, I slowly made my way down the corridor to his secretary, a woman named Amelia. She was supposed to give me a package that urgently needed to be delivered to the fifth floor, to the accounting department. And then they would direct me further as needed. Yes, it’s a simple job. But what else could I expect right now? More successful peers are hired for positions as managers or assistants. As for me, with my unimpressive appearance, I’m only fit for courier work.
The vivid image made me shudder again, my frail body convulsing and my skin crawling with goosebumps. His touch. And the scent of his cologne. I even think I know which one it was. Another flaw of mine, on top of everything else, is my very sensitive sense of smell. The French would say I should have gone to sommelier school instead of pursuing a business career. A keen sense of smell, a refined taste. And I can cook and pick up on things very quickly. I can replicate a dish after just trying it once. My mom and dad felt like they needed to make up for lost time during my childhood, so they didn’t talk to me much in regular moments, but they frequently took me on trips abroad. And there, in order to see me less, they sent me to different courses, schools, and lectures. Usually, they lounged on beaches while I was always learning something. If I were taller and stronger, I might have been able to get a pilot’s license and fly helicopters, or learn martial arts and become Agent 007, smoking nervously in the background. But with my looks, it’s better to keep quiet about any skills. Actually, it’s better to keep quiet, dress inconspicuously, and God forbid, not get noticed too often. When I was very young, while other kids dreamed of becoming astronauts, I dreamed of unlocking a unique gene and becoming invisible. It’s easier that way. You sort of exist, but no one sees you. No one can hurt you or say something unpleasant to your face.
Automatically, I licked my dry lips. And right away, I felt his fingers again. These forbidden, unclear memories instantly made my pale cheeks flush as if someone had just set them on fire from the inside.
Hey, what’s your name again? Zhenya? – called out a young woman standing behind the reception desk.
Very cute. Tall and slender. Just on the verge, when you expect to see something extra on her impeccable body, but no. Maybe just her legs are a bit too big. Otherwise, she is a picture-perfect ideal.
Her hair is cinnamon-colored, tied in a neat bun at the nape of her neck, big hazel eyes with a warm honey tint, slightly, just a little bit plump lips. Neat, prepared, conscientious in everything, starting from makeup and ending with clothing. A perfectly ironed white cotton blouse, a black skirt, the boundaries of which end strictly two fingers above the knee, and black patent leather shoes with a reasonable heel no more than six centimeters. I think many men watch her as she walks away. And invite her out on a date, that’s for sure.
But she doesn’t bother me for some reason. I’m still thinking about her strange boss…
Zhenya? Why are you silent? – the woman snorted, giving me a slightly contemptuous look.
It’s normal. People never look at me differently. Disdain, distrust, contempt. It’s like looking at cockroaches.
Zhenya, – I nodded, deciding not to irritate the princess.
Have you already been to Mr. August Stark office? – she asked, raising a black penciled brow.
Yes.
Good. So now take the package and go to the fifth floor. They’re already waiting for you there. Ask them if there’s anything we need to pass on! August doesn’t like it when something lingers, everything should be delivered on time. Otherwise, there’ll be a fine! Got it!
I silently nodded and took the package, handed to me by her well-manicured hands. Holding it close to my chest, I quickly headed to the elevators. It’s not long to go from the eighth to the fifth floor. The surname and office number are written on the package – I can handle it quickly. No problem.
They really say about August that he is not only very responsible and punctual but also demands the same from all his subordinates. His story is open to everyone, numerous interviews have gradually uncovered everything from him. Some television channels even resorted to surveillance. Such high interest in him was aroused not only by his success in business. August is so talented that in addition to all his pluses, he is also a writer. Each of his books becomes a real bestseller. They publish him in all languages of the world, even making bets on the release of his books. And, of course, the theme is romance. The way he writes drives readers crazy. Including me. This year they have already started filming the first movie based on his most famous novel, “Rose with Black Petals”. That’s the story of his success, and that’s despite the fact that his life could have turned out very differently. August is the son of adoptive parents; his real relatives died in a car accident when he was only a year old. His true ancestors were very conservative, professors, there was a whole dynasty. The new parents, however, turned out to be progressive, involved in creative professions, his father was an artist, and his mother was an actress, so they allowed their son to fully develop. And the talented person instantly blossomed. Freedom from others’ limited opinions gave him everything.
A heavy sigh lifted my flat chest. Yes, it’s a shame that I wasn’t lucky. Imprisonment in opinions, in lack of love. I couldn’t say anything, I never had my own voice in the family. Nobody really talked to me, let alone spoke kindly.
“Come in!” commanded the voice from the other side of the door, when I knocked right under the sign that read “L. Simens. Chief Accountant.”
“Hello,” I whispered.
From nervous reflections on the way here, my voice had obviously dropped. So the large woman behind the desk, piled high with papers, growled at me:
“What? What are you mumbling about?”
“Ahem, ahem!” I coughed. “Hello!”
Oh, hello, – muttered Simens, moving her sagging cheeks on her round face. – And who are you? – she raised her plucked white eyebrows, widening her gray eyes.
I’m your new courier. Here’s a package for you from the eighth floor!
Ah… – the woman said, looking at me through small glasses. – Amelia sent it? From August?
Yes, probably, I don’t know everyone’s name yet, – I shrugged and hurried to apologize, – it’s my first day.
And what’s your name, dear courier? – Suddenly, the lady’s voice softened, and now she addressed me almost with maternal tenderness. Yes, this is the second side of my appearance. If they don’t despise me, they pity me. Like a helpless cripple. And since I don’t have any external flaws, except for my short height and teenage thinness, I suspect they consider me a head shorter than everyone else.
Zhenya, – I replied habitually, without showing offense. There’s nothing to be offended about here. Simens, probably Linda or Lia or something like that, since the letter “L” was on the sign, is a kind and hardworking woman, and there’s no point in expecting anything else from her.
Zhenya, Zhenya… Well, okay! Nice to meet you! And I’m Mrs. Linda Simens. Let’s get acquainted! Most of your work will be with me, since your predecessor was mainly walking back and forth from me to Amelia. Let’s see your package.
The woman rose from her seat, but for her bulky body, the gesture turned out to be a whole event, and leaning over the desk, her chest of enormous size hooked onto the stack of papers, which until this second had been towering over her, and all the documents instantly scattered across the small personal space of the most responsible employee of ” Inversion “. Yeah, that’s what the company I work for is called. August’s brainchild – ” Inversion “. This word has many meanings. Rearrangement, flipping, perversion, replacing white with black. Reflection. Today, I still can’t understand why he gave such a name to his enterprise, but soon, everything will fall into place in my head. But that will be much later.
Right now, I quickly squatted down and hurried to collect everything from the floor, neatly stacking sheet by sheet, and returned everything to its former place on Mrs. Simens’ desk.
“Oh, thank you, thank you, Zhenya! That’s very nice of you! Thank you!” The woman hesitated a little, she apparently wanted to say something more personal, but still didn’t know how to address me. So, slightly embarrassed, she immediately grabbed a clearly prepared black folder, fastened with a rubber band, and handed it to me.
“Here, take this to Amelia. Everything is signed, stamped. Thank you, Zhenya.”
Polite smile on my face, I took another package and silently left the office. I wouldn’t be surprised if Mrs. Simens calls HR now to find out what gender I am after all.
And this scenario is familiar to me too. Deciding to concentrate on work, I quickly headed back to the elevator. I like this office. Everything is modern, design, finish. You can see and feel the quality. Expensive wooden floors, which in some places are reminiscent of stone tiles. Glass walls of the offices, leather furniture of the new generation, which either has non-standard shapes or has superpowers – folding and expanding for any needs. And on the walls on all floors, there are paintings by famous artists. They hang in niches embedded in the walls and are reliably protected by modern alarms.
I entered the elevator again, clutching the folder to my chest. I pressed the button for the eighth floor and was about to sink into my thoughts when the system emitted a melodic sound and the elevator doors opened on the seventh floor. I automatically looked up and met His incredible blue eyes.
“Well, I understand, August. I think it’s time to move on from the inspection to discussing the details!” Standing next to my God was the same scruffy-looking man who had pushed me away from August’s door about twenty minutes ago. The man gestured for my boss to go ahead of him into the elevator cabin.
Where I was currently standing, holding the unfortunate folder close to myself.
“Yes,” August slowly turned away from me with a stern gaze and, nodding in agreement, followed the man’s invitation and entered the elevator with me. The burly man hurriedly followed behind.
I, on the other hand, instinctively backed up until I hit the back wall of the cabin. The men did not turn away from me. They both remained standing as they had entered. The burly man just pressed the button for the eighth floor.
“So let’s do that, Ivan.”
I really wanted to sink through the shiny elevator floor, right into the shaft, and die. Just to not stand here under His heavy gaze. August is very tall and broad-shouldered, a confident and young man. Even if he wasn’t currently in a perfect business suit that matched every curve of his trained body, but in simple shorts and a t-shirt, he would still make an indelible impression as a leader. Almost like a king. Or just a God. My God.
“Is this folder for me?” He suddenly spoke, looking directly into the eyes of the unfortunate courier.
No hint of mockery. No hint of command. Rather, a patronizing intonation, as an older brother would speak to a younger one.
“You scared him!” The burly man roared with laughter, grinning.
I didn’t even have time to be surprised at how Ivan managed to determine my gender ahead of everyone else when my God spoke with his stunning timbre, penetrating to the very soul:
“Zhenya?”
Um, this, uh, I coughed, the treacherous voice not wanting to comply. “It’s for Amelia!” I blurted out, trying to lower my voice a bit to show that I’m also a man!
For some unknown reason, His gaze made me nervous. But there was nothing to worry about – here was Ivan, and in a moment the elevator doors would open and we would step out with everyone else. Or maybe I wanted to show Him that He was wrong. I’m not a woman, I’m a guy. A man! Even if there’s chaos in my head, the fact remains the same! Let Him know that He made a mistake…
I expected to see His usual disgust, but He smiled again with that smirk I had seen in His office, and calmly reached out His hand, saying, “You can give me the documents, I’ll pass them along.”
Stunned, I mechanically handed Him the package. And then I flinched again! I was looking into His eyes instead of where I was handing the folder, and August’s hand brushed against mine as He took it.
A touch.
A touch that I would never forget.
At that moment, the elevator doors opened and the burly man laughed, making me quickly look down at the floor and blush like a ripe beet, “That’s what your popularity does to people, August! Now even your own employees will be asking for autographs!”
I didn’t see how they exited the elevator, as I was afraid to lift my eyes. It seemed to me that if I did, the whole world would immediately know my hot thoughts and laugh at me. While tearing me to shreds.
On the way home, I kept remembering that moment. I saw Him a few more times during the workday, but always from a distance. We didn’t run into each other in the elevator or anywhere else. It turns out that most of the womans in the office are hopelessly in love with their boss. They do nothing but run around with his books and talk about how wonderful he is. Now I’m one of them, even though I’m not a woman.
All day I’ve been thinking about that fleeting moment in his office. He definitely made a mistake, like many before him, mistaking me for a woman. It’s normal. There’s nothing wrong with it. He’s not the first and he won’t be the last. Maybe I should forget about it and try to erase his touch from my lips. Distract myself with something, get rid of his phantom. But for some reason, I can’t.
On my way home, I decided to stop by a barber shop and get a more masculine haircut. Enough hiding behind anonymity. Let everyone see my true gender and not make the same cruel mistake again. Although, I don’t really care about what others think. Sitting in the barber’s chair, I was fully aware of why I was doing this. I’m not only tormented by his mistake, which almost killed me for these few hours, but I also want to get revenge on him. All these girls chattering all day about his virtues. Each and every one of them, even the ugliest, has a chance. But I don’t.
I didn’t know this barber, and at first, he looked at me with suspicion, but then the experienced eye of a hairstylist quickly discerned the truth, and the man visibly exhaled.
“How do you want it?” he asked, critically examining my head.
“Short on the sides,” answered the familiar voice that made me sink into the chair. I nervously looked up at the mirror and saw Him in the reflection.
“Oh, August, you’re back again?” the barber greeted my boss as if he were an old friend.
“Yes, Cavan, I decided to stop by after work. There’s an important event tomorrow. Is Edison here?”
“Of course! Make yourself comfortable, I’ll go get him!” the man disappeared somewhere in the depths of the salon, while August sat down in the chair next to me and, just like me, smiled at his reflection. I felt a suffocating sense of shame, my cheeks instantly turned red. What a coincidence to end up in his barber shop of all places! As if there were nowhere else in the city to get a haircut! It’s a good thing I was the first one here, or else he would have every right to think I was stalking him.
How was your first day? – I can’t help but keep my eyes on his strong lips. His cheeks and chin are covered with a two-day stubble that so beautifully emphasizes his masculinity, even though he doesn’t need it. – Zhenya?
I…thank you, it was good, – I snapped out of it just in time and shyly looked away.
It’s a shame we didn’t get to talk during the day, – my god wearily leaned his beautiful head back on the chair’s headrest and closed his eyes. However, he continued to speak. – I was really surprised they hired you as a courier. Your resume is simply brilliant. So many courses and lectures, personal achievements. You’ve seen a lot and have too many merits and knowledge to just run errands. My company needs people like you, and I know how to appreciate talent.
August, good evening! Didn’t expect you so soon! – he was interrupted by the second hairdresser, apparently the same Edison.
So, – Cavan started on my head. – Are we trimming the sideburns or doing something more serious?
Just the sideburns, – August answered for me again. So firmly and decisively that I didn’t dare say anything against it. – I already told you, Cavan. Since when do you need to repeat things twice?
I understand, – my hairdresser quieted down and started working.
August, what would you like? – Edison fawned over his client.
Shave. That’ll do for today, – August said.
Both hairdressers started working on their respective clients, and Cavan now treated me with the same careful respect as he did August.
Zhenya, don’t leave right after Cavan is done, – August abruptly interrupted his hairdresser’s chatter. – I want to finish our conversation about your position. There’s a good coffee shop nearby. It won’t take long.
I was scared and didn’t even dare move. It wasn’t just because after this amazing day, he’s inviting me for coffee. It was also because he’s the first person who noticed not my insignificant appearance, but what’s hidden beneath it.
Is it settled? – August prompted my silence again.
It’s settled, – I almost whispered and saw him nod contentedly and return to the care of the barber.
It was very strange to sit literally shoulder to shoulder with my new boss. Closing my eyes, I felt the scent of his cologne more acutely and once again thought that it was the most divine aroma I had ever known. It was mixed with a very subtle, barely perceptible note of sweat. A real, masculine scent. It wasn’t disgusting, it was like feeling his masculinity, strength, and the true value of life.
The barbershop was not hot, but despite this, my palms became moist. I never sweat, even in the intense heat, and here. Out of nowhere. Was I really that nervous about Him being so close?
August, all yours! Take the job, – I heard Edison’s voice after a while.
I was afraid to open my eyes and cowardly pretended that I just submitted to Cavan’s skillful hands and patiently waited for him to finish his work.
And my client seems to be asleep, – Cavan giggled somewhere near me.
I hurried to open my eyelids, just what I needed! And why does everyone always have to humiliate me, laugh at me? Even in front of Him!
Apparently you have a light hand, – to my horror, what I saw didn’t make me happy at all!
August, standing behind my chair and just complimenting Cavan, friendly patted the barber on the shoulder. As if just cheering him up. But the latter shone with joy…
Zhenya, don’t you like your haircut? – Edison apparently noticed my facial expression, which I immediately tried to erase, and interpreted it in his own way.
No, everything is fine, – I hurried to justify myself, but there was no hope that they believed me. – Thank you, how much do I owe you? – I reached for my wallet, but was stopped by Cavan, whom I now dislike very much.
No need, August has already paid for both of you. You have a good boss, Zhenya. We wish we had one like that!
Yes, August, buy our barbershop! You’ll have your own personal barbers! Two at once! – Edison supported his colleague.
I couldn’t stand to hear this anymore and quietly stood up from the chair, as the rest would never have noticed my disappearance, and headed for the door. I wasn’t mistaken. And when I went out into the street, I wondered for a moment if I should wait for him or if he had already forgotten about me? Apparently, he had. I believed more in that. I was more used to that.
Automatically, I descended the steps and headed towards home, calculating in my head how to return him the money for my haircut tomorrow. When suddenly, His voice stunned me from behind:
Zhenya! – saying goodbye to the loving guys, August called his invisible subordinate. – The cafe is in the other direction.
Although I was terribly ashamed to do this, I still turned around. For the umpteenth time in one day, my boss proved his humanity. His blue eyes still looked at me without a hint of a joke or smirk.
Or are you in a hurry?
No, no, I’m sorry, I was just thinking.
“The cafe” turned out to be a small and very cozy restaurant. Dimmed lighting, quiet music, high-quality cotton tablecloths, expensive chairs, exquisite tableware. Money was clearly not spared here to impress its visitors.
The waitress seated us at a free table slightly off-center, and although she, like the others, clearly recognized my boss (it was very evident in her eyes), she didn’t raise an eyebrow or pester us with questions.
I sat down at the table, while August took off his jacket and, now only in his white shirt, hung the heavy accessory on the back of his chair.
“I hope you’ll forgive me. It’s very hot today, September, and it feels like July,” he grinned and took off his tie, then unbuttoned the top three buttons of his shirt. I quickly averted my eyes from his fingers and stared at the glass in front of me. I readily believed him that he was hot. He was so big and strong, and the open collar of his shirt now revealed a small triangle of tanned skin on his chest, making it clear that even in thirty-degree frost, such a powerful body would feel like summer.
The sleeves followed the collar. August carelessly rolled them up, revealing his strong arms thickly, but not overly, covered with black hair and with clearly defined veins, as happens with real athletes who do a lot of strength exercises.
“And you, don’t you want to take off your jacket?” my god asked me sincerely. “Aren’t you hot?”
“No,” I quickly shook my head. Too quickly. Too obviously. Again.
I was saved by the waitress, who appeared out of nowhere. She stood silently at our table, waiting for the high-end customers to start ordering. But despite her professionalism, she couldn’t hide her feminine interest in the collar of his shirt and that little triangle of skin on his powerful chest.
“Zhenya? Would you like something to eat?” August preferred to find out what I wanted first!
He already broke records for the amount of attention shown to me by people all day! My mouth was dry and, in my nervousness, I struggled to say, “If it’s possible, a glass of wine, Chateauneuf-du-Pape, the 9th year.”
I said the first thing that came to mind. Coffee is definitely not appropriate right now. And wine usually calms me down. A good French one. Saying it, I didn’t immediately realize that it might seem quite audacious on my part. After all, he’s my boss, and drinking during a business conversation is not very polite.
“I’ll have one too, please,” August nodded, letting the ecstatic waitress know that it was time for her to leave him and fulfill the order.
“You have good taste. But there’s nothing to be surprised about here with that resume of yours! So, while she’s bringing us our drinks, maybe you could share why someone with your knowledge agreed to work as a regular courier?”
My face was drowned in red color. Not only because he asked a personal question. But also because under the table, his knee touched mine. In restaurant standards, this situation is normal. Small tables, he’s very tall. For Paris or Milan, it’s nothing. Sitting close to strangers is the norm there. And with other people, I wouldn’t have even flinched. But here and with him…
August showed no emotion, as if nothing had happened. He clearly spends dozens of business meetings a day, in offices, restaurants, and cafes. What’s a touch to another person for him? Nothing. And for me…
” Zhenya, you’re silent all the time. Is it just me or are you afraid of me?”
“I?” My cheeks flushed, and he noticed it. “I’m always like this.”
“Are you always afraid of someone?”
“No, I… I’m just thoughtful.”
” Zhenya,” my interlocutor’s voice covered my delicate skin with a velvet veil, “you shouldn’t be afraid of me. Or anyone else. I’m right here.”
A calm but very confident smile appeared on his face. It shone like a diamond in the semi-dark room. I didn’t immediately understand what he was talking about. And when I realized it, I blushed even more.
“Oh, here’s our wine!” my boss leaned back in his chair and raised his head. “Drink, it should make you feel better. It’s all the heat and the first day of work. That’s how it always is when you start something new.”
Yes, probably, – I nodded and took the glass.
My mouth was dry, I was overwhelmed and almost went crazy with all the impressions. That’s the only way I can explain why I gulped down the whole glass at once! You can’t do that! You shouldn’t do that!
But I did it and closed my eyes – the cool grape nectar slid down my throat and straight into my stomach. I opened my eyes and saw August’s surprised face.
Miss, it seems we need another glass. It’s hot in here.
The waitress didn’t even look at me and quickly disappeared to fulfill the order of the celebrity who had caught her attention. Meanwhile, I covered my mouth with my hand. I felt ashamed, not only for what I had just done, but also for realizing it. The wine had hit me in the head instantly. My feeble body, empty stomach, unusually hard work for one day, and a whole glass of good wine gulped down all at once. I realized that I had never done that before. One glass was already too much for me, and that’s only if you sip it slowly over a few hours, paired with good food.
Before I could process the first glass, the second one materialized in front of me.
Now, let’s toast to our acquaintance!
My boss smiled and extended his glass to me. I raised mine as well, as if in support. Now, I was scared to speak, because I was no longer in control of my tongue. What a nightmare, it couldn’t get any worse than this!
I took a few big sips and only then allowed myself to exhale. A foolish, unwarranted confidence awakened somewhere deep inside me. Where did it come from? In me?
“Now, are you ready to talk?” August asked.
“Yes! I am ready!” I replied.
“Oh, I see, the wine has worked its magic. Perhaps I should have done this earlier?” August smirked.
“I-I’m sorry, Mr. Stark…” I suddenly faltered, realizing how foolish I looked. His confident smile seemed to hypnotize me, turning me into a true servant.
“Just August is fine when we’re not at work,” my Boss replied, taking a sip.
For some reason, it seemed to me that everyone in the room was watching this delightful gesture. It couldn’t be any other way. He was a God.
“I accidentally drank too much. I don’t usually drink so much. I’m just really nervous. Nobody ever noticed me before. Nobody ever asked such questions,” I explained.
“I’m sorry, I didn’t know. Then, really, we should drink to that! I must apologize for not supporting you in the same amount. I’m afraid the highway patrol won’t forgive me for that,” August said.
“I understand,” I hiccupped, very scared and quickly covering my mouth with my hand.
I quickly took a few more big sips so as not to start hiccuping all over the room.
“Oh, you really don’t know how to drink,” August chuckled, giving me yet another smile. Only for me.
Is it the wine or has he become even more handsome? Everything seems to have melted away in my eyes. And still, under the table, his knee touches mine. So nonchalantly, so unaware of me, yet still driving me wild with excitement!
I realized that I had been staring at my half-empty glass for too long, reflecting the weak rays of the setting sun. I have no idea how much time had passed in such a warm silence. But it was a beautiful moment.
I only came to when a female hand placed a small plate with the check on our table. A moment later, a bill was placed on it, five times the cost of the wine.
” Zhenya, Zhenya, let’s go, I’ll take you home,” I heard His voice above me.
And I felt his iron hand carefully lift me up by the elbow and help me stand up on my cotton-like legs. What am I to him? A speck of dust? A grain of sand that cannot be seen underfoot…
We walked like that, him holding onto me like a younger brother who’s just had a joyous occasion. Thank goodness we didn’t have to walk far. Soon, we stopped in front of a large, dark-blue, sports car, just like his eyes. August opened the door for me and helped me into the passenger seat. He strapped me in already. When he took the driver’s seat, he leaned over and, reaching across me, grabbed the buckle of my seatbelt, pulled it tight, and clicked it into place with a confident motion.
It was a simple, ordinary, even obligatory gesture. Taking care of his passenger. And yet, I froze, afraid of missing his scent, which had suddenly settled on my skin. A phantom of the fabric of his shirt, barely touching my jacket.
“Zhenya, don’t fall asleep. I need your address,” he said, without a hint of annoyance.
Only care and attention. In reality, the wine was already starting to release my head. Now all the action had shifted to my body, even though it wasn’t visible from the outside. This is familiar to me. It means that the quality of the wine is good. That’s why you can confidently drink it at lunch. The head will be in a state of intoxication for a short time, and then you can easily continue working. Provided that you observe the measure and have a mandatory lunch. I didn’t have that.
I gave him my address.
The car gently pulled away from the curb. It felt like we weren’t driving, but sailing. Although, judging by how quickly people, traffic lights, and buildings flickered past the window, we were going at a decent speed. Darkness had already settled over the city. Was I really sitting there staring at that glass for so long? Or did autumn just come so vividly? It used to get dark earlier, and then light later. Wasn’t there just a sunset recently?
On the way, I relaxed. Nothing happened. August confidently controlled this powerful foreign beast, as if playing checkers on the road, changing lanes and thinking about something of his own.
I probably disappointed him completely. How naive I was on the first day. It seemed like he wanted to promote me, but now it’s not meant to be. Who am I for him to invest in? What’s in my resume? Yes, courses. Yes, Harvard, Sorbonne. But what’s the use of them when all that knowledge is stored in someone like me?
He parked the car in my yard. No one was outside. It was dark, some lights weren’t on. And it seemed like a decent neighborhood…
I flinched at the sound of my seatbelt clicking. I turned my head towards him, afraid that I would see irritation, impatience, as if I was taking up his precious time. But it all happened differently.
I had barely turned my head when my mouth collided with his hot lips!
“Um!” I moaned, digging both hands into his broad shoulders.
I tried to pull away, but it was no use! August’s large palm rested on the back of my neck and held my head in place. His fiery tongue demanding, yet gentle, parted my lips and entered my mouth. I was so surprised, horrified, and shocked that my eyes nearly popped out of their sockets!
I began to pound his shoulders with all my might, trying desperately to break free, but I couldn’t even come close.
Finally, he let me go. And he did it so suddenly that I stumbled backwards and almost fell out of the car.
“What are you doing?!” I screamed, still in shock.
August’s face showed only slight displeasure.
“What we both want,” my boss shrugged. “Are you going to deny it?”
Chapter 3
I overslept. Like a complete idiot, I overslept my second day of work. My mouth is dry, my head is pounding. Rubbing my forehead, I force myself out of bed and into the shower. No, wine definitely has its side effects. I’m dying for a drink, but I don’t even have time to have breakfast. It’s at least a half-hour journey by metro to get to work, and I’m supposed to be there in five minutes! Disaster! I put on my jeans directly over my wet body, followed by my t-shirt and jacket. My hair is wet, I dry my head as best as I can with a towel, and hanging my bag over my shoulder, I rush out to the stairwell.
And to think I had such a mishap with the wine last night! And all the jokes from my new boss. Today I have to endure more teasing! Ivan? He definitely won’t keep quiet. I knew that in a new team, they usually have some kind of initiation, but who would have thought that my new boss, a celebrity, would personally indulge in it!
My gaze falls on my reflection in the train’s glass door – at least today I look like a men. Hair sticking up, unkempt appearance, and probably reeking of alcohol. Maybe I should grow a beard and start smoking? Then everyone will leave me alone? Yeah, that’s a great idea!
If you think about it, every year they make fun of me more and more ingeniously. It’s already a new day, the hangover and stupor have passed, I’m on my way to work, and yet I still flinch from the memories of his kiss that haunt me. And I can’t say for sure that I’ll react calmly to the shared laughter behind my back today. But even more than that, it’s my consciousness that stings me this morning. He instilled in my head a stable thought that I am not like everyone else. I never belonged to any specific movement before, and yet I was unprepared for the news that I might like men.
No, nonsense. It’s all the hangover and yesterday’s emotions. Shaking my head to ward off the obsession, I hurriedly followed the others out of the train. Upstairs. To work, where I’m already forty minutes late!!!
After crossing the huge hall of the office building, I managed to jump into the elevator at the last second, which was already full of people, and pressed the button for the eighth floor. While this thing was still delivering everyone to their floors, I was already ten minutes late. And immediately ran into the displeased gaze of Amelia, who rushed to scold me:
Your first day is over, can you start being late now? Do you know what discipline is? – the woman expressed her opinion, folding her thin hands on her neat chest. She clearly enjoyed pretending to be a leader. Well, in any case, I’m a subordinate, so I have to justify myself.
I’m sorry, please forgive me. I accidentally overslept. I never do this, – I pleaded, still waiting for her angry speech to continue. And I wasn’t wrong.
Well, it’s obvious that you overslept, – Amelia snorted. – But don’t lie and say it’s the first time!
It’s the first time, I swear, I don’t have such a habit…
Okay. Anyway, we’ll note your lateness in the accounting department. There will be a fine, those are our rules. Now go to the fourth office, it’s to the left down the hall, they’ve been waiting for you for a long time.
Should I bring anything?
No! He’s asking questions again! – Amelia waved her hands. – Go to the fourth office, one fine won’t be enough to get off the hook!
Without asking any more stupid questions, I dashed in the direction pointed by Amelia ‘s finger. The fourth office was very close, so just a few moments later I cautiously knocked on the door. There was no answer, but I still opened it.
It turned out to be a presentation room, in the middle of which there was a large oval table and almost all the seats behind it were taken by people I didn’t know. Men and women of different ages in business suits turned their heads towards me without speaking. And then I felt a light touch on my back. Startled, I stepped inside, immediately turning around to see who was behind me.
Good morning, – August’s nod was addressed to me and all other attendees at the same time.
Good morning, August! – the subordinates responded in a jumble, and I just nodded.
Not because I am rude! Just…
Despite yesterday’s ridiculous events, he didn’t stop being my God.
Zhenya, take a seat, – as if nothing happened, my boss motioned me to two empty seats at the head of the table.
To avoid attracting unnecessary attention to my bewilderment, I hurriedly did what was required of me. And I wasn’t even surprised when He took the second seat next to me. My palms instantly became damp, and my breathing betrayed me when I felt the touch of his knee under the table. But he immediately moved away, as if not wanting to repeat yesterday’s events.
Ladies and gentlemen, have you read the document? – my boss turned to the gathered specialists.
Yes, yes, of course!
Absolutely!
Our HR department makes such mistakes. And where can it lead in the end? – August spoke quietly enough, but everyone heard him. – I sent your resume to all the management, – my God explained to the courier, who was frozen with embarrassment and his own thoughts. – For your information, – and this is already for everyone else, – my secretary, Mrs. Clarke, has a resume that is at least three times worse than his. We can use this resource, which came to us on its own, for its intended purpose. Or maybe it would be better if I replace you with couriers and replace them with you? What do you think? Will it increase the productivity of ” Inversion “?
I bowed my head. August remained unchanged in his face. And the intonation remained the same. But what he said made all these serious people tremble. And all this because of insignificant me. In a matter of minutes, I gained more than a dozen high-ranking enemies. That’s how lucky you are, Zhenya! You’re luckier than a drowned man! And he has more luck than you. He has already drowned, and you still have to deal with all this.
So, Bob, – my boss turned to the slightly overweight man with a barely visible bald spot in his rare black hair. – How can we fix the situation?
Mr. Stark, the manager responded immediately, we carefully considered this issue. The resume does deserve maximum attention, especially since we can adopt the experience of Harvard and Sorbonne professors thanks to this young specialist. Therefore, the decision is as follows: Zhenya Andrea will be given today off while the HR department, together with the accounting department, works on the re-registration. Starting from tomorrow, he will be offered a new position as a financial assistant in your analytical group. He has the knowledge, that’s clear, but it would be right to offer the young man a probationary month and then appoint him to a full analyst position with full confidence. If, of course, both sides agree. The HR department will be fined and given a strict reprimand, and in the event of a repeat, we will be forced to replace employees.
Bob, this should not be repeated. This is a direct responsibility of the HR department. This is their job. Or are they also working as couriers, and therefore have no time to perform their main duties?
No, no, of course not. This is a regrettable mistake, Mr. August.
Alright, – my boss nodded reservedly to his subordinates. – You’re free to go. Try not to make such mistakes again.
Women and men started getting up from their chairs and one by one leaving the office. I stayed seated, because His heavy hand rested on my arm, commanding me to stay put. He did it and immediately let go. No movements, no extra seconds. Nothing but business communication. Any leader could do that, and nobody except silly me would perceive it in any other way.
He stood up and closed the door after the last person. I once again gazed in admiration at his gait. A powerful, trained beast who had the strength to spin the earth on his finger. Invariably dressed in a high-quality business suit. His white shirt was unchanged, except for today he didn’t wear a tie, and that triangle of tanned skin that so captivated us and the unknown waitress was open to the gaze of anyone who wished to see.
So, do you agree? – my God stopped on the opposite side of the table.
Agree to what? – I didn’t immediately understand what he was talking about.
With the new position, – my boss reminded me. – Financial assistant in my analytical group.
A terrible suspicion crept into my head at that moment and I, stupid, very stupid, hastened to voice it:
Are you doing this because of yesterday?! You shouldn’t! I forgot everything, I’m not used to other people’s jokes!
I have no idea why I suddenly flared up like that. Maybe it’s my paranoia, or maybe I just got scared of my feelings, which flooded me at that moment when he once again decided to defend my insignificant interests.
I jumped up from my seat to leave this horrible office that was weighing on me so heavily.
Joke? Do you still think that yesterday was just a joke? – his strong hand caught me by the sleeve and made me stop. August loomed over me like a black cloud, about to strike lightning at passers-by.
Of course! What else could it be?! In my situation, it’s normal. Don’t change my position or anything, I’m fine…
I didn’t finish. August grabbed me by the waist and pulled me towards him, immediately and very demandingly covering my lips with a kiss!
Umm… – that’s all I managed to say!
This insane beast grabbed me by the lower back and pressed me to him with such force that… I felt everything! And immediately turned red to the tips of my hair. It wasn’t a joke. His male reaction to what was happening at the moment clearly indicated the seriousness of his intentions. – St… Stop it!
I finally managed to break free. Or rather, he let me go. Again.
“Was that convincing enough?” August asked without any hint of embarrassment, piercing me with his hot gaze.
I jumped back about a meter, for some reason deciding that this distance would be safe, and tried to catch my breath. My head was spinning from what he had just done to me.
“As for your job,” he continued, folding his hands on his chest, “it is well-deserved. I wasn’t lying when I said that my HR department overlooked your abilities. I have been leading Inversion for many years, and this leadership requires attention to detail. It would be pointless to hire someone who could be an excellent financial analyst and bring me millions as a courier. Remember, I do not confuse work with personal relationships.”
“What was that?!” I protested, still breathing heavily, his grip really was like iron.
“You provoked me. I can’t let you think stupid things about me,” August only shrugged his huge shoulders. “Now, let’s go. I’ll take you home. You look bad.”
I flared up again! What were these hints?! What did he mean, “I’ll take you home”?!
I’ll manage on my own, thank you! – I tried to slip past his imposing figure for the second time, and for the second time my elbow got caught.
I said I’ll drive you home, – my boss said calmly, still a few decibels lower than when he was reprimanding his subordinates.
I was scared then, but now I just meekly obeyed and silently followed him in the direction he lightly pushed me towards.
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