Chapter Three

After Josh apologized, we managed to find common ground and maintained a polite relationship.

As Amelia and I walked into the office building, Sophia unexpectedly approached us, directing her attention toward me. Her expression turned sour as she scrutinized my attire. "Is it because you’re meeting with our boss that you’re dressed like this?" she asked with a sneer.

Amelia immediately came to my defense. "Does Harper intimidate you?"

Not letting Sophia's comment get to me, I gave them both a determined look and parted ways, heading toward Josh’s office.

Upon entering, I greeted him, "Good morning, sir."

With a smile on his face, he responded, "Good morning, Ms. Cole."

His friendly gesture made me feel more comfortable, easing any anxiety I might have had. "Sit down," he offered.

"Thank you, sir," I replied, taking a seat.

Josh looked at me and said, "I want you to interview some interns."

"I believe Human Resources can handle that," I replied. "They are good at interviewing and have everything they need."

"I think you would provide valuable input in selecting the best candidate for the role," he explained.

Then, unexpectedly, he asked, "Are you currently in a relationship? Because I know that personal relationships can sometimes impact one's professional life," he said as he continued typing on his computer.

I was taken aback by his question but responded, "I prefer not to discuss my personal life, and it would be equally awkward for me to inquire about your relationship status."

"I'm single; I was engaged, but it didn’t work out," he said as if it were nothing.

"I'm sure Sophia and the other ladies will be happy to hear that," I remarked, aware of the attention he received from his female colleagues.

"And you’re not pleased to hear that?" he inquired. "Look, I know we didn’t start on the best note, and I’m trying to make things right with you."

He continued, "I know Sophia has shown interest in me, but I always keep things professional. I believe in separating personal and work matters."

"Now, let’s get back to business. Can you do what I asked you to do?"

I shrugged. "Following instructions is not an issue for me, but I want to clarify that this task is not within my job description."

"Just do it. It’s an instruction. Have a good day, Miss Cole," he said, dismissing me with a wave of his hand.

"Such arrogance!" I thought, storming out of his office, angry and frustrated.

---

The next morning, I woke up to sunlight streaming through the curtains, filling the room with bright light. I didn’t have any plans for the day. I’d been stressed at work, trying to meet deadlines and working hard to excel in my job.

Suddenly, my phone rang. It was Amelia, and I was thrilled when she suggested we go to a spa together. I happily agreed to join her.

After taking a refreshing bath, I put on some comfortable clothes and headed downstairs. The delightful aroma of bacon filled the air, and I eagerly joined my mom in the kitchen. 

"Good morning, Mummy," I greeted warmly.

"Good morning, baby girl," she replied.

"It's one of the perks of being an only child, though I do have a cousin," I joked, rolling my eyes.

"Mum, I’m not a baby," I added with a smile.

Ava, my cousin, lives with us because her parents passed away. My mom has become her legal guardian, providing Ava with a loving and supportive home. With a seven-year age difference between us, I naturally take on the role of a big sister, which I love.

As for my dad, his work requires him to be away often, and we’ve come to understand and accept that as a family.

I had breakfast with Ava, who asked why I was dressed up. I happily told her about the spa date invitation from Amelia.

After breakfast, I met up with Amelia, and we went shopping together, exploring different stores and enjoying each other's company. In the afternoon, we headed to the spa, where we had a relaxing time and gossiped about Sophia flirting with our new boss. Later, we had a meal at a restaurant.

I had so much fun that by the end of the day, we said our goodbyes with smiles on our faces.

When I got home, I found my dad sitting in the living room. I rushed over to him in excitement and gave him a big hug. "How are you? How was your trip? When did you get back?" I asked all at once, unable to contain my excitement.

"Take it easy, my dear," he replied with a chuckle, but I could sense something was off. He wasn’t his usual bubbly self, but I decided to put my worries aside.

"Where are Mom and Ava?" I asked.

"They went out to buy groceries," he said.

Worry filled my eyes as I looked at him and asked, "Are you okay?"

He sighed and gestured for me to sit down, which I did. "Our business is going through tough times, and we’re in danger of losing everything. I had hoped to fix the situation, but unfortunately, things didn’t go as planned," he explained.

"All will be fine, Dad. We’ll figure things out together," I tried to comfort him, but then he surprised me by saying, "A decision has been made. You will be getting married. In two months."

I immediately pulled away from him, beyond shock. I couldn’t believe my ears.

"Dad! What? In two months? I’m not an object to be arranged like this. I have feelings!" I exclaimed, looking at him in disbelief.

"Why would you make such a decision without asking me?" I asked, hoping for some explanation, but the thought of being arranged into a marriage without my consent made me feel trapped and powerless.

I looked at my father again, searching for any sign that he might be joking, but he seemed lost in his thoughts. Then I remembered I hadn’t asked him who I was arranged to marry. I moved closer to him and asked, "Who?"