Chapter Three

"After Josh apologized, we seemed to find common ground and maintain a polite relationship.

As Amelia and I came into the office building, Sophia unexpectedly moved toward us, directing her attention toward me.

Sophia's expression turned sour as she analyzed my attire. 'Is it because you are meeting with our boss that you're dressed like this?'

'Does Harper intimidate you?' Amelia asked.

With a determined look, not letting her get to me, I parted ways with both of them and made my way toward his office.

Walking into his office, I greeted, 'Good morning, sir.'

With a smile on his face, he greeted, 'Good morning, Ms. Cole.'

I felt comfortable in a way with his friendly gesture. It lessened any anxiety I might have had.

'Sit down.'

'Thank you, sir.'

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

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

'I believe you would offer valuable input in selecting the best candidate for the role,' he explained.

'Are you currently in a relationship?' he asked. 'Because I know that personal relationships can sometimes have an impact on one's professional life.'

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

'I'm single; I was engaged, but it didn't work out.' That wasn't difficult to say.

'I'm sure Sophia and the other ladies will be happy to hear that.' 'I know he is aware of the attention he receives from his female colleagues.'

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

'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 at this company.'

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

'So full of arrogance!'

Angry and frustrated, I stormed out of his office.

***************

As I woke up, a beam of sunlight suddenly pierced through the curtains, filling the room with bright light.

I didn't have any plans. I had been stressed at work, trying to meet deadlines and working hard to excel in my job.

My phone started ringing, and Amelia was calling. I answered the call, 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.

I greeted my mom warmly, 'Good morning, mummy.'"

"Good morning, baby girl."

"It's one of the perks of being an only child, though I have a cousin."

Rolling my eyes, I said, "Mum, I'm not a baby."

Ava, my cousin, lives with us because her parents passed away. My mom has become her legal guardian, providing her with a loving and supportive home.

With a seven-year age difference between us, I naturally take on the role of a big sister for Ava, which I love.

As for my dad, his work requires him to be away often, and we have 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 Amelia, and we went shopping together, exploring different stores and spending time together.

In the afternoon, we went to the spa and had a relaxing time. We gossiped about Sophia flirting with our new boss. Later, we had a meal at a restaurant.

I had so much fun that at the end of the day, we said our goodbyes.

When I got home, my dad was sitting in the living room. I rushed over to him in excitement and gave him a big hug.

While still holding onto my dad tightly, I asked, "How are you? How was your trip? When did you get back?" I said it all in one breath.

"Take it easy, my dear."

I could sense that something was wrong; he wasn't his bubbling self, but I decided to put my worries aside.

"Where is Mommy and Eva?" I asked.

"They went out to buy groceries."

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 will 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 moved away from his hold. I was beyond shocked; I couldn't believe my ears.

I looked at my father with disbelief. I exclaimed, "Dad! What? In two months, I'm not an object to be arranged like this. I have feelings."

"Why would you make such a decision without asking me?" I asked, hoping for an explanation.

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?"