Chapter 1: An Unlikely Encounter

Nico strolled through the crowded coffee shop, his eyes scanning the room for a familiar face. He had agreed to meet Layla, his new colleague, here for their first working lunch. As a freelance writer, Nico wasn't used to working in an office, but the company had offered him a generous contract, and he had agreed. Layla was his new editor, and they had a lot to discuss. As he spotted her, his heart sank. Layla was even more beautiful than he had imagined. Her long, curly brown hair cascaded down her back, and her bright green eyes sparkled as she laughed with the barista. Nico felt a pang of discomfort, which he quickly attributed to his dislike of small talk. Layla caught his eye and smiled, waving him over. Nico made his way through the crowded room, trying to ignore the intrigued glances from the other patrons. As he approached their table, he noticed Layla's gaze lingering on his lips, and his cheeks warmed. "Hey," Layla said, extending her hand. Nico shook it, trying to ignore the spark of electricity that ran through his body. "Hey," he replied, taking a seat across from her. Layla's eyes roamed over him, her expression assessing. Nico felt a shiver run down his spine as she took in his appearance. He was used to people staring at him, but there was something about Layla's gaze that made him feel exposed. "So," Layla said, breaking the silence, "I've read your portfolio. You're quite the talented writer." Nico shrugged, trying to play it cool. "Thanks. I try my best." Layla smiled, her eyes crinkling at the corners. "I'm sure you do. So, I have to ask, what's with the... um... style?" Nico raised an eyebrow, unsure what she meant. "Style?" Layla gestured to his hair, which fell across his forehead in a messy swoop. "You know, the whole... artistic vibe." Nico chuckled, feeling a bit self-conscious. "I guess I'm just a free spirit." Layla's eyes lingered on his face, and Nico felt like she was trying to read between the lines. "I see," she said finally. "Well, I think we can work with that." As they ordered their food and began to discuss their working relationship, Nico couldn't shake the feeling that Layla was looking at him differently. It wasn't until she mentioned his rumored relationship with a certain actor that Nico realized why. "So, I hear you and Julian are... close," Layla said, her voice laced with an assumption. Nico's eyes widened in surprise. "What? No, we're just friends." Layla raised an eyebrow. "Really? Because I could've sworn..." Nico laughed, trying to set the record straight. "No, Layla, I assure you, I'm straight." Layla's expression changed, a flicker of surprise crossing her face. "Oh," she said, her voice softening. "I... um... I didn't mean to assume." Nico smiled, feeling a bit more at ease. "No worries. I'm used to it." As they continued their lunch, Nico couldn't help but notice the way Layla's eyes sparkled when she laughed or the way her hair fell in loose waves down her back. He pushed the thoughts aside, telling himself he was just being friendly. But as they parted ways, Nico couldn't shake the feeling that this was just the beginning of a complicated and intriguing relationship.