***Nick's Point of View***
That week we got the proper HR paperwork to declare our interoffice relationship, making it public to the entire company, and thus, all the world.
"Are you absolutely sure you want everyone to know about us? As soon as people find out, things will change for you." I gave him one final warning to make sure.
"I've told you before, I'll get used to whatever comes our way. It's just a part of being with you, Nick. And that's all I want, to be with you."
"Alright, then." I smiled, signing the paper. I handed him the pen so he could sign it.
"To be honest, I'm pretty sure our secretaries know."
"Oh, for sure." I nodded with a laugh.
By Friday morning the paperwork was submitted, by lunch the entire company knew. By 2 p.m. our head of PR was fielding dozens of questions from reporters.
"Don't worry, Maggie is taking care of the questions." I told an anxious Justin. "She's gonna say something about how 'Mr. Sherbrooke and Mr. Parks' personal relationship is completely separated from their professional working relationship. There are multiple measures in place to ensure no current or future issues affect the business dealings of the firm, its partners, and its clients.'"
"I know." He said trustingly, but still anxious.
We decided to leave the building separately, half an hour apart, and go to our own apartments. I hate not being with Justin to make sure the photographers aren't being too aggressive.
We had a very low-key weekend, spending Saturday at his place and then Sunday at mine. The paparazzi were outside both of our buildings, but less and less each day.
Monday came and things seemed to settle down regarding the gossip/news. Then I heard an unusual sound outside my office, like someone is crying?
I opened my office door to find my secretary consoling Justin's secretary. "It's just not fair, he doesn't deserve it!" Hannah cried out.
"You and I know that, but some people are just gonna be mean no matter what." Jenna responded.
"What happened?" I asked softly. "Is everything all right?"
"Hannah and Justin overheard employees saying some nasty things about your relationship." Jenna said softly.
I immediately headed to Justin's office. Walking in, I swiftly moved to him and pulled him into my arms. "Are you okay? I heard you overheard some unkind words."
"It's not a big deal." He gave a deep sigh, I can tell he isn't being completely honest. "It does suck though."
"What did they even say?"
"Something about how I slept my way up."
My heart sank. This man is the hardest working employee in this entire office, deserving of every bit of success he has made for himself. "It's no surprise they made something up, they couldn't find an actual fault with you." I kissed his head.
"Thanks for that." He laughed.
"Come over tonight, let's have a relaxing night in."
"I have a ton of work to catch up on!"
"I think the boss will let it slide..."
"No." He said more seriously. "That's the last thing I should do. I need to work, please just let me work." He snapped, pulling away and sitting back down.
My heart sank. I feel like he's shutting me out, I guess I just need to give him some space. This isn't our first fight or disagreement, but it still feels so grey. "Alright... let me know if you need anything." I said somberly, slowly leaving the office.
The day passed slowly. I texted Justin as I got ready to head out, he told me he'd see me tomorrow. I wish I could do something, I just don't know what I can do to make him feel better.
***
***Justin's Point of View***
I'm such an idiot. Nick was just trying to be nice, and I just brushed him off, I pushed him away. He looked so sad and hurt when he left my office.
I quickly finished up my work and left. I need to go to Nick, I need to apologize.
If I pushed him too far away I'll never forgive myself. This man is truly the best, he is the kindest and sweetest thing and I don't want to ruin this.
His building let me in, but without Nick's warning or Nick by my side, they couldn't let me in the elevator up to his place.
I quickly called him, a desperate need to rush and be with him taking over. "Hey, I'm in your - your lobby." My voice cracked, I tried to hold back tears. "Can you just let them send me up, please?"
"Yeah, pass them the phone."
A minute and a half later the elevator doors opened to his foyer. He's sitting on the stairs. I sat down next to him. "Hey." I said softly.
"Hey."
"I am sorry that I hurt you. I'm sorry that I pushed you away like that. It wasn't fair of me, I told you I'd handle this new step, and I mean it."
"I just want you to know you're not alone, I'm here. You don't have to handle these bumps by yourself, we're in a relationship, that means we can and should lean on each other as we walk through life."
"I know." I said, a tear falling down my face. "I'm just not used to having someone else like this. I've been alone for so long, I've only had myself to rely on. And even though I know I can rely on you, I still need to allow myself to let that wall down. I don't want to lose you."
He grabbed my hand. "You're not gonna lose me. Just know I'm here for you. Whatever that means, we'll get that wall down somehow. I'll pass you the sledgehammer or I'll help you sand it down. I'll help you install a temporary window if that's what you want. Whatever the pace, I want you to rely on me eventually. Cause I don't see us going anywhere."
I let out a deep sigh. "That was a weird way of putting it, but I understand what you're saying. And I do appreciate it." I smile. I leaned in sideways to hug him. "Is that relaxing evening still a possibility?"
"You bet." He kissed my forehead. "Hot chocolate? And why don't we get Chipotle delivered?"
"That sounds perfect." I hugged him tight.