Chapter 8: It's Seven.

Driving around the corner to park in Serene's driveway, no word was spoken. Nicolas had expected him to bring up what he did, but the whole drive was quiet. Nicolas parked his car in front of Serene's apartment, sighing softly as he stared down at his assistant's hand that trembled, "Are you cold?"

Serene shook his head, staring out the window, "I'm not cold."

Nicolas frowned, seeing as he had made his worker uneasy. Nervous. It was annoying to watch, having to affect someone's emotions like that," Ochoa, your hand is trembling." he acknowledged. Usually, his past assistants will laugh it off since they'd be more worried about losing the job, but Seven was uneasy because of how close Nicolas was when they were in the bathroom.

Seven eyed down at his arm, closing his eyes for a quick moment, "Don't worry about it, sir. I just haven't eaten anything."

Nicolas shook his head, not wanting to ask any more questions. He was aware of how he must've come off to someone as small as him. Intimidating. As if he was about to beat the life out of him when really, he just wanted to congratulate him. The CEO wanted to tell him how impressed he was, but the moment he stepped into the bathroom, seeing Seven glancing at him with water dripping down his face made Nick want to embrace him.

" Ochoa-"

Serene turned to his boss, his cheeks still slightly red, "Sir, can you please address me about my actions toward Mr. Hampton."

Nicolas' eyes widen at the sudden topic change, clearing his throat as he nodded, "Well, I was expecting you to speak up for me when I went silent during a debate. I read in your school file that you were top of your debating class. You aced your discussion essays and persuasive writings. I was doubtful at first because I've never met a person that had a mind of accurate judgments."

"Did I meet your expectations, sir?"

Nick chuckled, "No doubt. You did something exceptional."

Serene grinned hesitantly, opening the door open, only to be stopped by Nick," Serene," Nick mumbled, "I apologize for my actions. I realize it must've thrown you off. I expect you to understand that it will never happen again."

It went quiet for a minute and as Serene stepped out of the car, the weight on Nick's shoulders lifted. The assistant turned around, nodding at his boss who stared at his red freckled face, "I understand, sir. There's no issue."

Nicolas turned to face the wheel, gripping onto the black cover. Serene closed the door, staring at Nicolas through the window, "Also, sir," he spoke, "It's Seven."