Chapter Five

Josh

To unwind from the week's stress, I head to a bar, relaxing with a bottle of wine and swaying my head to the song blasting from the speaker. Looking around the room, I notice a familiar figure with her back turned toward me. I move closer and realize it's Chloe.

My heart races, leaving me breathless and unsure of how to react. "Hi, Josh. Good to see you. It's been a while," she says, pulling me into a hug. I am surprised to see her in town; she has been away for a long time. "When did you come to town?" I ask.

"Last week," she replies, smiling from ear to ear. It's obvious she is happy to see me, but I don't think the feeling is mutual. Chloe is like a leech; she doesn't take no for an answer, despite my telling her time and time again that I feel nothing for her. Lost in thought, I suddenly feel her lips smash against mine.

The touch of her lips ignites a mix of familiarity and undeniable chemistry between us. I can't resist; I kiss her back, moaning as the world around us fades into the background. "Get a room," someone says behind me. That brings me back to reality, and I realize I am close to losing my self-control. Chloe is a hottie; I can't resist her. Immediately, I pull away from the kiss before I do something I'll regret.

She stands there smiling, obviously happy to see me. "Let's catch up some other time," I tell her, and we exchange contacts. "Sure thing, Josh," she says as she takes out her phone to save my number.

It's time to leave the bar. Chloe and I walk hand in hand. Once we arrive at the car park, she gets into her car with a promise of meeting up again and gives me a soft peck on the cheek.

The next day, I woke up with a splitting headache. I had slept on the couch, which was uncomfortable. I stroll out of the living room to get some medicine for the headache and prepare a cup of coffee. After a refreshing shower, I stand in front of my closet, contemplating my outfit for work. As I button my shirt, my mind drifts back to the events of the past few weeks.

Memories of Harper and our meetings flood my mind. I always feel a sense of longing to see her again, but I notice she is avoiding any direct interaction with me. It doesn't bother me as long as work is not affected. I check myself in the mirror, ensuring every detail is in place. I run my fingers through my dark hair, giving it a final touch. Satisfied with my appearance, I head out to work.

Before diving into work, I take a moment to check my phone for any messages. I notice a few missed calls from Chloe but decide to focus on work first before addressing anything personal. Amelia walks in. "Good morning, sir."

"Good morning, Ms. Jones."

"Here are the files you asked for from the operations unit for today's meeting."

Without looking up, my gaze focused on my system, I signal her to drop them on my table. Then she leaves. But Harper is in charge of operations, I think. That confirms my earlier suspicion that Harper is avoiding me.

Suddenly, my door opens, and Chloe walks in. "God damn it, what is she doing here?" I mutter to myself.

"How are you, handsome?" she teases in a sultry voice. "Why weren't you picking up my calls?"

"Chloe, what are you doing here? You can't just show up at my workplace like this."

"I called to find out how you are faring," she says with a pout like she is offended by what I said, but she still comes closer. She slowly brings her lips to mine. As our lips move in sync, I find it pleasing as it helps to divert my attention from the thoughts of my ex-fiancée. I know it's only a passing interest; I can't bear to open my heart to love again.

The door to my office opens, and I hastily break off the kiss as Harper unexpectedly enters the room, anger pouring over me. Chloe, on the other hand, seems extremely offended and irritated by the interruption. Harper stands frozen in place, her face turned sideways, avoiding direct eye contact, and she stutters in response. "I-I'm sorry, sir, ma'am."

"How rude! Is this how your employees barge in without knocking?" Chloe says, conveying her displeasure.

"Harper, what do you want? You should have just sent an email," I ask her, anger lacing my voice. She apologizes again, "Sir, I'm sorry," and quickly leaves my office, leaving behind a tense atmosphere. Chloe insists on continuing the kiss, but I realize I'm no longer in the mood for any more make-out. My recent encounter with Harper has left me feeling uneasy.

"Let me walk you out; I have a meeting to attend. I'll call you again," I say to Chloe. As we step outside, Chloe gives me a sultry smile. "I'll be waiting for your call." I watch as she leaves until she is out of sight. God damn this woman.

My father calls, informing me to come over this weekend; he has some vital news. As I get ready for my meeting with Dad, anxiety takes up a lot of my thoughts. When I arrive at my parents' house, my sister Jane greets me. "Welcome, big bro."

"Good to see you, Jane," I say as I pull her into a hug. My parents welcome me with open arms as I enter the house; I can see the joy in their eyes. We gather around the dining table as a delicious meal is served, enjoying our meal and engaging in lively conversation.

After enjoying a tasty dessert, my dad clears his throat; that's a hint of an important discussion. He asks about the state of the company, and I eagerly share details of our recent progress and accomplishments. As I speak, I notice my father is impressed with the strides we've made so far.

My father's question turns to the employees. "How is Harper?"

My heart skips a beat as soon as my father mentions Harper, which surprises me. "She's fine, Dad." I can't deny that I've purposefully avoided running into her since that day at work. "She is a stunning, committed, and hardworking team member," my father remarks.

"Yes, Dad," I respond.

He says something I find unbelievable and surprising, and then I ask again, "What?"