You have a good heart Bella. I like that about you."
On the flight back the next day something small happened that made my heart beat differently. The plane had a little turbulence and I held the seat tightly. Mr. Raymond noticed and gently placed his hand on mine for a few seconds saying "It is normal, don't be afraid." His hand was warm and strong. I felt something I could not explain — a mixture of respect, gratitude, and a strange new feeling. I quickly removed my hand and looked out the window, but the feeling stayed with me.
Back in Lagos the days continued with more closeness. Sometimes after work we would sit in his living room and discuss the day. He started sharing small personal things — how he built the company from nothing, how lonely it could be at the top, and how he admired people who worked hard like me. I also opened up more and told him about my struggles growing up and how I used to help my mother sell things in the market before I came to the city.
One evening after a long day he said to me, "Bella, you are becoming more than just an assistant to me. You are becoming someone I trust completely." I smiled and replied "Thank you Mr. Raymond. I will never disappoint you."
But deep in my mind questions kept coming. Why did he choose me among all the staff? Why did he allow me into his house and his personal life so easily? And why did my heart beat faster every time he smiled at me or said my name softly?
I pushed the thoughts away and focused on my work. This was my chance to rise from poverty and I was not going to lose it with silly feelings. Still, every night when I lay in my bed I remembered his warm hand on mine during the flight and I smiled quietly to myself.
The weeks were passing and I could feel that our relationship was changing slowly. Whether it was for good or bad, only time would tell.
TBC