CHAPTER TWENTY FIVE

Today was the day I had to show I meant business. It's a workday, which means keeping my promise to myself and my mom. I took a deep breath as I got to the office. "Easier said than done," I thought with a sad frown.

Just being in the same space as Alex, knowing he was lurking around somewhere, made my heart ache for him. But I can do this. I have to. I decided to dress super professional today, my own suit of armor.

"Mr. Hernandez, good morning,” I greeted politely as he walked by my desk to his office. I didn't make eye contact, I just resumed my work.

"Morning," he mumbled back in that rude, forced way of his.

I made sure not to look up until he was gone. "Not a bad start," I told myself with a little nod of encouragement.

I was working away when suddenly I got a Slack from Alex: "Sophie, need you in my office right away."

I sighed heavily. "What does he want now?" I muttered, rolling my eyes. I got up and went to knock on his door.

"You wanted to see me, Mr. Hernandez?"

Alex was t