The office was unusually lively that morning. Groups of employees clustered near the coffee machine, whispering and laughing. Elena walked past, catching fragments of conversation.
"Did you see him at the picnic?" one colleague said. "He grilled like a professional chef."
Another added, "And the way he handled the group activity—steady hands, quick thinking. That's not normal for an assistant."
Elena frowned, slowing her steps. Are they talking about Adrian?
She entered her office, finding Adrian already at his desk, calmly sorting files. He looked up, offered a polite smile, and returned to his work without fuss. His restraint was noticeable. No hovering, no unnecessary questions. Just quiet efficiency.
By mid‑morning, the whispers had grown louder. In the break room, two interns giggled. "He's too perfect. Assistants don't usually know how to tie ropes like that or cook barbecue for fifty people."
Another chimed in, "Maybe he used to be a chef. Or… something more."
Elena pretended not to listen, but her cheeks warmed. She carried her tea back to her desk, unsettled. Why does everyone notice him so much?
Marcus Wu was in a state of panic. He cornered Adrian near the copier, lowering his voice. "Sir, the rumors are spreading like wildfire. They're saying you're too capable, too polished. If she hears too much, she'll start asking questions."
Adrian's tone was calm. "Let them talk. Rumors fade. As long as I don't draw attention, she won't feel pressured."
Marcus groaned, clutching his forehead. "Fade? Sir, they're practically writing novels about you in the break room. One intern swore you must have trained in culinary school. Another said you tied knots like a sailor. If she connects the dots, I'm finished."
Adrian chuckled softly. "You worry too much, Marcus."
At lunch, Elena sat with a colleague who leaned closer, whispering. "Your assistant is impressive. He's not like the others. Where did you find him?"
Elena blinked, caught off guard. "He was assigned to me."
Her colleague smirked. "Lucky you. He's the kind of assistant everyone wants."
Elena laughed awkwardly, brushing it off. But inside, her thoughts churned. Why do they all notice him? He's just… Adrian.
Later in the afternoon, Elena struggled with a presentation slide. She hesitated, then walked to Adrian's desk. "Could you check this layout? I'm not sure if it looks professional."
Adrian glanced at the screen, adjusted a few details, and handed it back. "Try this. It's cleaner."
Elena smiled. "Thank you."
He nodded politely, returning to his files. No lingering, no unnecessary words. Just quiet help.
She walked back, unsettled again. He's helpful, but distant. And everyone else sees him as extraordinary. Why don't I know more about him?
By evening, the office emptied. Elena gathered her things, stepping outside into the cool air. She walked down the quiet road, her thoughts heavy with the day's whispers.
A car slowed beside her. The window rolled down, and Adrian's voice called gently, "Miss Li. It's late. Let me take you home."
She blinked, startled. "You again?"
He smiled faintly. "I finished my work. I saw you walking alone. It's safer if I drive you."
She hesitated, then nodded. "Alright."
He stepped out, opened the door for her, and helped her inside. The car smelled faintly of cedar, comfortable and warm.
As they drove, Elena glanced at him. "People have been talking about you today. They think you're… too capable."
Adrian kept his eyes on the road, his tone calm. "Rumors are just noise. Don't let them bother you."
Her lips curved into a small smile. "You're strange."
He chuckled softly. "Maybe. But I'll keep being strange if it means you feel safe."
The car glided through the quiet streets, carrying them toward her home. For Elena, it was just a ride. For Adrian, it was another step in keeping his promise. And for Marcus, somewhere in the background, it was another day of sheer terror—watching his boss play assistant, chauffeur, and legend in the break room gossip.