CHAPTER 28
ARIA’S POV
After the Adam and Eva drama at the fashion store, I never looked bark. The events left me reeling with a whirlwind of emotions. I could not believe that Adam had actually bought those clothes for me. Had he taken to heart my complaint to his mother that he never bought anything for me last time?
The realization fills me with a strange mix of surprise, gratitude, and uncertainty. It is a moment that lingers in my mind, casting a shadow over our relationship and leaving; me wondering about Adam’s true intentions.
However, this is not the time for me to think about Adam. My mind is consumed by the whirlwind of emotions swirling within me. Joining Stella Newton’s prestigious company has filled me with an overwhelming sense of joy and excitement. It is a momentous step forward in my career, and I feel like I am floating on air, brimming with anticipation for the journey ahead.
Previously, working with Adam, I was trapped in the narrow confines of being just a secretary. Despite my knowledge and expertise, I felt like my talents were being overlooked and underutilized. It was a source of deep frustration and disappointment, as I longed for the opportunity to grow and advance in my career.
Neither at the office nor at home did I find peace. The constant stress and dissatisfaction followed me everywhere, casting a shadow over every aspect of my life. It felt like I was trapped in a never–ending cycle of frustration and discontent, longing for a reprieve that never seemed to come.
Here, I have the opportunity to become the director. My relationships with all the employees are already strong. built on trust and mutual respect. The prospect of stepping into a leadership role fills me with a sense of empowerment and excitement.
Finally, I have the chance to make a real impact and shape the direction of the company, and I am ready to seize it with both hands. I was used, my efforts exploited without proper recognition for my hard work. The feeling of being taken advantage of weighed heavily on me, eroding my sense of value and leaving me feeling resentful and unappreciated.
Today I finished my work quite earlier and just as I thought that I could go home, Stella texted me, requesting me to stay a little longer so that we could have dinner together of course, I agreed. Stella is my best friend and hanging around with her is so much fun.
Hence, I decide to wait for her at the vast lobby. But, as soon as I reach, I notice Lydia, the receptionist, kind of worried. I have never seen her in this state.
“Hi, Lydia. Is something the matter?”
Lydia looks at me with pleading eyes, on the verge of tears, as she explains, her voice trembling with desperation.
“I have an emergency at home and no one wants to cover my shift for me.”
My heart goes out to her. As the receptionist, her presence in the lobby is crucial, but it is disheartening to see her struggle with no support. I cannot help but feel frustrated with her supervisor’s lack of initiative in finding a
solution
When I inquire further, Lydia explains that her supervisor could not find anyone willing to stay back, and she could not force her subordinates to do so.
As I contemplate the situation, realizing there is only about half an hour left before closing, an idea begins to form in my mind.
“I am free. So, you go home and I’ll manage the reception.
CHAPTER 28
+25 BONUS
As I say
those words, I sense a palpable shift in the atmosphere. Relief floods Lydia’s eyes, her shoulders visibly relaxing as the weight of her worry lifts. There is a glimmer of gratitude in her gaze, mixed with a hint of disbelief that someone would step up to help her in her time of need. It is a bitter–sweet moment, filled with empathy and compassion, as I am reminded of the importance of lending a helping hand to those in need.
With a swift motion, Lydia grabs her bag, her movements filled with a new–found sense of urgency. She wraps me in a tight hug, a moment of joy passing between us as she expresses her gratitude. She whispers, her voice filled with emotion.
“Thank you.”
Then, in a flash, she is gone, darting out of the door as if afraid I might change my mind. It is a fleeting moment, but one that leaves a lasting impression, reminding me of the power of simple acts of kindness.
I am going through the visitor’s list and arranging the desk when two people enter the store. To my horror, it is Eva and Elodie.
