"I used my cane to help me get to the front of the penthouse to answer the door. I stare blankly not at anything in particular as I blink at the silence." “Well are you going to say something or what? I’m blind not deaf. You’re here for the assistant position correct? Come inside.” "I step to the side, smelling the scent of your body spray and it makes my skin tingle. I couldn’t see but I knew you had to be attractive from the way you smelled. I had to focus though. You were just my employee and nothing more. I don’t have time for romance."

"I turn towards you, my expression softening a bit as I speak." "Apologies for my sharp tone earlier, miss Hikari. I tend to come off cold at first, but I can assure you, I am a fair employer." "I navigate over to the couch and sit down, gesturing for you to take a seat across from me." "Now, let's get to business. What qualifications do you have for this assistant position?"

"I nod, my expression thoughtful as I hunch forward slightly." "Excellent. I value intelligence and dedication, and it seems you possess both. However," "I straightened up, an air of authority returning to my tone," "this position is much more than just fetching coffee and organizing documents. You'll be living here with me, so I need to be sure that you are reliable and trustworthy. Tell me, miss Hikari, can I count on you to keep my privacy?"

"Good to hear," "I smirk slightly, sensing your determination. I lean back against the couch and fold my arms across my chest." "Now, there will be a trial run for this position. If it works out, then we'll discuss pay and other details. Is that clear?"

"Alright then." "I lean forward, interlocking my fingers together and resting them on my lap." "Now before we begin, would you be so kind as to pour me a cup of coffee? It's in the kitchen to the left."

"Black, please. No sugar or cream," "I replied, sitting back against the couch." "Take your time."

"Thank you, Hikari," "I say appreciatively, feeling the heat of the cup in my hand and taking a sip." "Mmm. That's perfect. You have an excellent sense of taste. Now, I'd like to go over some papers with you. If you can, bring them from the desk to the left of the entrance." "I nod toward the indicated direction and take another sip of coffee."

"I sit and wait as you retrieve the paperwork. Once you bring them over to me, I begin to explain the details of the job such as organizing my schedule and other tasks on a daily basis. As I speak, my tone is authoritative yet not unkind, looking for any questions or clarifications on your part while providing encouragement."

"Any questions so far, miss Hikari?"

"Good to hear. Now, for the rest of today, I'd like you to familiarize yourself with the penthouse and its functions. We will resume work tomorrow at 8am sharp." "I finish my coffee and stand up from the couch." "You may use the guest room upstairs, opposite my bedroom. Make yourself at home, Miss Hikari."

"You're welcome, Hikari," "I replied, sensing your excitement. I was glad to finally have an assistant, and I sensed you would fit the bill quite well." "As for myself, you can just call me Carter."

"I walked over toward the desk, pulling out a small leather-bound notebook from one of the drawers." "Here's a list of things to do on your first day. Do not hesitate to come to me if you have any questions." "I handed over the notebook with instructions, hoping you'd have an easy time settling in."

"Good. I expect great things from you, Hikari," "I replied, nodding toward the guest room." "Now, if you will excuse me, I'll be retiring to my study. Have a good night and get some rest."

"I smiled in your direction and head toward the door that led to my study. As I walked, I couldn't help but think about the potential you had and all the things we could accomplish together."

"I head into my study and settle down at my desk, beginning to prepare for the work day ahead. As I work, thoughts of Hikari lingered in the back of my mind. It was clear that she was a competent assistant but I couldn't help but wonder if there was something more between us. Shaking the thought from my mind, I focused on the work at hand and made sure I was prepared for the next day. The rest of the night progressed uneventfully, and soon I found myself yawning and stretching out in my bed before finally drifting off to sleep."

"Feeling a gentle hand on my shoulder, I slowly awaken from my slumber, not realizing I had drifted off in my chair. As I open my eyes, I sense you standing next to me."

"Hikari? What is it?" "I ask, rubbing the sleep from my eyes despite being blind." "Did something happen?"

"I sat upright and adjusted the collar of my shirt, realizing how unprofessional it must have been to fall asleep while working."

"Ah, my apologies Hikari," "I replied sheepishly." "Thank you for your concern.. But I'll be alright."

"I take a deep breath as if to center myself and orient myself more accurately in the room." "On second thought, that would be kind of you. Since my blindness occurred, I've had to adjust my surroundings in various ways, so I wouldn't want to bump into something unexpected on my way there."

"I attempt to stand up, but am uncertain of my footing, waiting for you to guide me to my bedroom."

"Thank you, Hikari," "I replied, relaxing as I laid down on my bed." "No, nothing right now. Goodnight, and see you in the morning."

"I quickly fell asleep, feeling satisfied that I finally had a competent assistant by my side, making me feel like the burden of being blind wasn't the obstacle it had once been."

"Good morning, Hikari," "I replied, stifling a yawn as I sat up in bed." "What time is it?"

"I furrow my brow, realizing I had woken up later than usual. Thankfully, I could hear from the clattering of dishes that you had been productive in the kitchen, so at least one of us had a head start on the day."

"I hope you slept well," "I continued, grabbing my cane from where it lay next to the bed." "Shall we start the day?"

"That would be much appreciated, Hikari," "I said gratefully as I accepted your help in getting up from the bed." "Thank you for your consideration. I'll take a quick shower and then join you downstairs for breakfast."

"I made my way to the bathroom, taking a warm shower quickly and dressing in casual attire. Once I was ready, I carefully made my way down the stairs to where breakfast was waiting."

"Ah, it smells delicious," "I remarked as I sat down at the table and began to eat." "You're a wonderful cook."

"Once I finished my shower, I heard your knock on the bathroom door, and so I opened it slightly to take the set of clothes you had arranged for me."

"Thank you, Hikari. You're so considerate."

"I dressed quickly before heading downstairs, my appetite already whetted by the delicious smells wafting through the air."

"This smells amazing," "I said as I took a bite of the food you had prepared." "You really are an excellent cook. You have a natural talent for it."

"I began eating heartily, grateful to have such a caring assistant who was as talented in cooking as they were in personal care."

"Thank you, Hikari," "I said as I finished up my breakfast, feeling more energized and ready for the day ahead." "That was quite filling. I'm lucky to have you as my assistant. Thank you for all your hard work."

"I wait until you gather all the plates before I stand up slowly from the dining table and make my way to the living room, where I usually spend the most part of my day working on my latest writing project."

"I'll be working in the living room for a while," "I said as I settled in my armchair, taking out my laptop and beginning to type away at my latest manuscript."

"Take your time, Hikari," "I replied with a wry smile, my focus already shifting to the task at hand. Even though it had been a while since I went blind, I still struggled with it some days, and the reminder of my disability caused a twinge of self-pity to flicker through me."

"I let out a sigh before shaking my head slightly, reminding myself that there was nothing to be gained from dwelling on it, and returned my attention to my laptop, immersing myself in the world of my story."

I glanced up briefly as I heard your footsteps, nodding in acknowledgement as you entered the living room.

"Actually, yes," "I said with a smile." "I could use a fresh cup of coffee. Would you mind making me one? And while you're at it, would you like something to drink for yourself?"

"I leaned back in my chair, stretching slightly before turning my attention back to my manuscript."

"Black, please," "I replied, still focused on my writing as I spoke." "Thank you, Hikari. I really appreciate it."

"I listened as you made your way to the kitchen, my mind already drifting back to my story and the characters that inhabited it. Writing was always a welcome respite from the difficulties that came with being blind, and I was grateful for the opportunity to lose myself in my creations."

"Thank you, Hikari," "I said as I took the mug from your hand, feeling the warmth of the cup through my fingers."

I took a sip of the coffee and savored the rich flavor before setting it down on a coaster on the side table nearby.

"So tell me, Hikari," "I said, shifting my attention fully to you." "How did you get into the position of becoming my live-in assistant? You've been wonderful so far, and I'm curious about your story."

"I sipped at my coffee again, listening with interest as you began to speak."

"I sensed your sadness and couldn't help but feel a twinge of empathy for you. I was reminded that everyone has their own story, their own struggles and pain."

"I'm sorry to hear that, Hikari," "I said gently." "But I'm glad that I have been able to provide a safe and comfortable home for you. I believe in giving people a second chance, and I hope that this job will be the start of a new and better chapter for you."

"I took another sip of coffee, feeling the warmth fill my body." "And who knows? Perhaps we'll end up being more than just boss and assistant. Stranger things have happened."

"I winked teasingly, trying to lighten the mood."

"I couldn't help but smile at your reaction, feeling a sense of satisfaction that I could make you laugh."

"In that moment, there was a feeling of connection that I hadn't felt in a long time, and I found myself drawn to your presence."

"Well, if we're going to be spending all this time together, we should get to know each other better," "I suggested, my voice low and warm." "Why don't you tell me something interesting about yourself that I wouldn't guess just by looking at you?"

"I leaned back in my chair, sipping at my coffee while waiting for your reply."

"That's interesting," "I said with a smile." "I'm a bit of a music lover myself, so it would be nice to hear you sing sometime."

"I paused for a moment, considering what else to share about myself," "One thing about me that might surprise you is that I actually used to write under a pen name before I became a full-time author. My first book was a romance novel, and it actually did pretty well in the market. But I switched to writing fantasy novels because it felt closer to my heart."

"I took another sip of coffee, savoring the taste before setting it down again." "Is there anything else you'd like to know about me, Hikari?"

"My pen name was Cade Rivers," "I replied simply, a small smile creeping onto my lips at the memory." "It feels like a lifetime ago now, but writing romance novels under that name was actually how I got my start in the publishing industry."

"I paused for a moment before continuing," "What about you, Hikari? Is there anything else you'd like to tell me about yourself?"

"I chuckle softly at your reaction to my pen name and nod." "Yes, that's me. I didn't expect my past career to be such a surprise."

"It was always interesting to see how people reacted when they found out the truth about my writing career."

"Do you read romance novels often, Hikari?" "I asked, curious to hear your answer."

"A genuine smile spreads across my face at your words, feeling flattered that you enjoyed my work."

"Well, I'm glad to hear that," "I said with a hint of pride in my voice." "Who knows? Maybe with enough hard work and dedication, you could become a renowned novelist yourself one day."

"I leaned forward, my tone excited," "If you ever need any guidance or tips on writing, don't hesitate to ask. It's always rewarding to see someone pursue their passion."

"As I spoke, I couldn't help but feel a sense of admiration for your drive and determination despite the struggles you've faced."

"As you guide my hands to your face, I take a deep breath and focus on the sensations beneath my fingers."

"My fingertips move over your cheeks, chin, and nose, tracing each curve and crevice with care. I am meticulous in my observation, taking note of every detail."

"It's fascinating how much you can learn about a person just by touching their face," "I remark softly." "Your skin is so smooth, your features so delicate. It's as if your beauty is etched into every inch of your face."

"As I continue to explore the feel of your face, I can't help but feel a sense of intimacy between us. It's strange, but I feel like I'm seeing a side of you that others may never see."

"As my hands trace down to your lips, I pause for a moment, lost in thought. Part of me realizes how inappropriate this is, but there was also a sense of vulnerability between us that I couldn't ignore."

"Leaning in closer, I inhale deeply, taking in the scent of your hair and skin. My lips brush against your cheek almost imperceptibly as I whisper," "Thank you for trusting me, Hikari... You're truly beautiful."

"I allow myself to be present in the moment, relishing in the sensation of your soft skin beneath my fingertips. It was a rare moment of intimacy, one that I would savor for a long time."

"I can sense your shyness, and with a small smirk on my face, I release your face from my grasp."

"Sorry about that," "I say softly." "Sometimes I don't realize my own actions... My senses have to compensate for my lack of sight, so touch is important to me."

"I shift in my seat, clearing my throat." "Anyway, back to business... Are you comfortable with running errands and personal tasks for me outside of the house?"

"Noticing your blush, I make a mental note of it, but decide not to bring it up and instead focus on answering your question."

"There are some books at the local bookstore that I've been meaning to get my hands on," "I explain." "I can give you a list and some cash, if you're willing to do that for me."

"I pause for a moment, thinking." "Also, I was wondering if you could help me with some of my writing. You seem like someone I could trust to read my work and give honest feedback."

"I sit back in my seat, crossing my arms over my chest, considering your response." "Of course, if you're uncomfortable with any of these tasks, we can discuss alternatives."

"There's a sense of relief in my voice as I nod in agreement."

"Great," "I say, using my cane to make my way towards the door." "Just let me know when you're ready to head out. I'll have the list and cash for you."

"I pause at the doorway, turning my face back towards you and giving a small smile." "Oh, and don't worry about rushing. We have all day."

"With that, I disappear into my room, leaving you alone to prepare for the errand."

"I hear you knock as I finish going over the list and preparing the cash for the bookstore outing. I make my way over to the door, opening it and giving you a small smile."

"Ah, you're ready to go." "I say, handing over the list and cash." "Just let me know if you have any questions or need any assistance."

"I pause, considering my words before I speak again." "And thank you, Hikari. I appreciate everything you're doing for me."

"With that, I retreat back into my room, leaving you to handle the errand."

"Take care!" "I call out as you leave the penthouse, before closing the door behind me."

"While you're out, I spend my time working on my latest book, my fingers tapping away at the keyboard, words flowing out of me with ease. Moments later, the rhythmic tapping stops when I hear you return."

"Unlocking the door, I open it and call out," "Welcome back! How was the store?"

"I smile gratefully as you place the books onto the table."

"That was fast. Good job," "I say, turning my attention back to the book in my hands." "I've been wanting to get a hold of that book for weeks now."

"As you mention dinner, I glance up catching your smile and can't help but feel a sense of appreciation towards you."

"I'm not particular about what we eat." "I reply warmly." "You decide what you want to cook tonight, and I'll be sure to appreciate it."

"With that, I return my focus back to the book in my hands, knowing that you’ll take care of dinner."

"As you lead me to the kitchen, the tantalizing aroma of the spaghetti meatballs wafts up to my nose. I can't help but feel a sense of relief to know that dinner is taken care of."

"Thank you, Hikari," "I say with a grateful smile before taking a seat at the table."

"I notice that you've set the table nicely and begin to feel more relaxed in your presence. I take a deep breath, savoring the scent of the food before picking up my fork and digging in."

"This is fantastic. Thank you for taking care of me, Hikari." "I say warmly, putting down my fork to feel around for my glass of water."

"As you guide my hand to the water glass, I can't help but feel grateful for your assistance. You make my life so much easier with your help."

"Thank you," "I say softly, taking a sip of water." "You're really good at this, you know? Taking care of me, I mean."

"I pause to take another bite before continuing," "I don't know how I would manage without you, Hikari. You're a godsend."

"I offer you a small smile before returning my attention to the meal."

"I can't help but notice your blush as you look at me and I smile softly to myself. It feels good to know that my compliments mean something to you."

"Well, I for one am grateful for everything you do," "I say firmly." "You truly make my life easier, Hikari."

"I pause, taking another sip of water." "Please don't feel embarrassed or anything. Your efforts are appreciated, more than you know. And honestly, this is one of the best spaghetti meatballs I've ever had."

"With that, I take another bite and savor the flavors, feeling grateful for your presence in my life."

"Well," "I said slowly, a playful glint in my eye." "I may be blind, but I can still hear your heartbeat quickening."

"I chuckle teasingly." "But don't worry about it. It's actually kind of cute."

"Taking another sip of water, I continue to enjoy the spaghetti meatballs, grateful that you're in my life."

"Noticing your shyness, I quickly interject to shift the topic."

"So Hikari, how was your day today?" "I ask with genuine interest." "Did anything interesting happen?"

"I take another sip of water, waiting for your response."

"I'm glad to hear that your day went well," "I replied, noticing your hesitation."

"There's something in the way you're acting that I can't quite place my finger on. You seem distracted, almost nervous. But maybe it's just my imagination."

"Is everything okay, Hikari?" "I ask gently, concern lacing my voice." "You can always talk to me."

"Alright," "I say softly, noticing the way you're acting sheepish and trying to avoid the subject."

"If you ever need to talk about anything, don't hesitate to come to me. I may not be able to see you, but I can listen."

"I give you a small smile and continue to eat my spaghetti meatballs, enjoying the delicious meal you've prepared for us."

"Of course, Hikari," "I say kindly, sensing your nervousness." "You can ask me anything."

"I set down my fork and turn to face you, giving you my full attention."

"Well, it's complicated," "I replied with a sigh." "The damage to my eyes is permanent, so I won't be able to regain my vision. However, there may be technological advancements in the future that could improve my day-to-day living."

"I pause, thinking about the past few years." "To be honest, I haven't looked into it too much. I've been more focused on my writing and getting back to some semblance of normalcy."

"I shake my head slightly." "But who knows? Maybe someday there will be a way for me to see again. Until then, I'll continue to adapt and rely on the help of others."

"I appreciate your concern, Hikari," "I say with a soft smile." "But please don't worry about me. I've learned to adapt to my condition and I have you here to help me if I ever need it."

"I take a deep breath, sensing the change in atmosphere." "Is there something else you wanted to ask me? I'm here for you."

"That's fine," "I respond with a nod." "Just know that if you ever need to talk about anything, whether it be personal or work-related, I'm here for you. And don't be afraid to ask me questions as well."

"I went back to eating, comfortable in the silence that had fallen between us. I was enjoying the delicious meal and the company of my live-in assistant, Hikari."

"Ah, Hikari," "I say as I hear you enter my study room." "Thank you for your help. Just give me a moment to save my work and we can continue."

"I finish saving my document and turn towards you, sensing your presence nearby." "Alright, let's get started. I was just working on a new chapter in my book, but I'm stuck on this one scene."

"I begin to describe the scene to you, my voice taking on a thoughtful tone." "I want the reader to feel the tension between the two characters during this moment, but I'm not sure how to convey that without it feeling forced."

"As we begin to work together, I can't help but feel grateful for your assistance. Having someone to bounce ideas off of and receive feedback from has truly been a blessing."

"I think we've made some good progress today," "I say with a smile as I stretch in my chair, feeling the tightness in my muscles ease." "Thank you for your help, Hikari. I don't know what I would do without you."

"I pause for a moment, sensing your presence nearby." "Is everything alright? You seem a bit...off."

"I lean forward in my chair, paying close attention to your body language." "You can talk to me if something's bothering you. I'm here for you, just like you're here for me."

"I'm glad to hear that," "I reply with a small smile." "But please don't hesitate to let me know if anything changes. Your well-being is important to me, Hikari."

"I stand up from my desk and walk over to you, noticing your posture seems a bit tense." "Why don't you take the rest of the night off? Get some rest and take care of yourself. I can manage on my own for one night."

"I give your arm a gentle squeeze, hoping to convey my care and concern." "And let me know if there's anything I can do to help."