Oops I Banged the CEO novel Chapter 122

“Come here and try being cheeky with me.”

That single message made Yvonne’s hand tremble, her phone nearly slipping from her grasp. Her heart thudded uncontrollably, as if someone had flipped a switch inside her chest.

Was she just overthinking it, or did those words really sound... well, a little swoon-worthy? She felt as if she were actually falling for someone—her own private little romance unfolding right there on her screen.

Yvonne opened the chat window, typing and deleting messages in a flustered loop. The app kept flashing the words “typing…” for long moments, revealing her indecision to anyone watching.

Finally, after what felt like forever, she sent a cute sticker of someone giving a shoulder massage to their boss—then quickly set her phone aside. She needed to get back to work. Honestly, her days lately felt like a roller coaster: thrilling one moment, terrifying the next, her nerves left in tatters.

Across the room, Marico watched the exchange unfold. He reclined in his office chair, a subtle, knowing smile curving at the corner of his lips as he gazed at his phone. The man who always appeared so distant and composed seemed, for once, quietly amused.

William knocked and entered just then, only to catch a rare glimpse of his ever-serious boss smiling—genuinely smiling, with a warmth that bordered on fondness. He’d come to deliver a report, but seeing Marico like this, William instantly halted, spun on his heel, and quietly retreated, unwilling to break the rare atmosphere of romance in the office.

The moment William’s figure appeared in the doorway, Marico’s smile faded. He straightened, setting his phone aside and returning to his usual businesslike demeanor.

“Yes?”

William turned back, regaining his composure before launching into his report. “Mr. Hamilton, yesterday’s press conference was a huge success. Several major companies have already reached out to discuss strategic partnerships. However, Ms. White, our lead designer, still hasn’t made her position clear. The other executives have arranged a dinner tonight at the hotel to discuss things further. Do you want to attend?”

Marico’s dark eyes remained fixed on his phone screen, barely acknowledging William’s words.

“Mr. Hamilton, Ms. White is the only designer in the country who’s cracked the smart chip problem. Her potential is limitless. If we secure a long-term collaboration with her, Hamilton Group’s standing in the industry will soar even higher.”

“If you have something to say, just say it,” Marico replied coolly, finally tearing his gaze away from his phone to fix it on William.

William hesitated for a second, then spoke up honestly. “Business is business. I think, for the sake of the company, you should go to the dinner. After all, Ms. Hamilton said herself in yesterday’s interview that she wants to stand by your side, to be your best partner.”

Marico leaned back, crossing one leg over the other, his expression unreadable as he replied, “So, because she’s outstanding, I should let her lead me by the nose? Or maybe I should even use my looks to sweeten the deal, is that it?”

His words cut like ice, all traces of warmth now gone. The commanding aura he radiated was almost overwhelming.

William froze, quickly bowing his head. “That’s not what I meant at all, Mr. Hamilton. Please don’t misunderstand.”

“Leave,” Marico said, his voice low and sharp.

“Yes, sir.” Realizing he’d crossed a line, William bowed and backed out of the office.

“Why’s that? Is there something even juicier we haven’t heard yet?” Nydia’s eyes lit up with excitement.

“From what I hear, Ms. White is trying to get Mr. Hamilton under her thumb, but he doesn’t seem interested in a long-term partnership with her. All our big clients are in an uproar over it.”

That caught Yvonne’s attention. She set her phone down, ears perked up.

She and Nydia exchanged surprised glances—especially when they spotted the name badge of the woman who’d just spoken. She was the assistant to one of the project heads; there had to be some truth to it.

“Mr. Hamilton’s here!” someone at the next table whispered, warning everyone to cut the chatter.

Yvonne instinctively glanced up, spotting Marico at the cafeteria entrance, dressed to the nines, the very picture of effortless authority. He looked like he belonged on the cover of a magazine.

But was he here for her?

That thought sent Yvonne ducking her head, shoveling food into her mouth as if she could hide behind her lunch. Her furtive little movements didn’t go unnoticed.

Marico’s sharp gaze narrowed, zeroing in on the girl trying to disappear behind her tray.