Chapter 8

Briar’s POV

I let out a long breath as I got out of the car. My nerves feel disrupted. I tried to act cool but there is virtually nothing to keep me calm. It's been three days since I arrived at the same place that I swore I would never step foot in again. But I already made up my mind that this was for the better good. I cannot deprive myself and my son of a better chance to live. So this is it.

“Are you alright, Briar? You look pale.” My colleague and friend, Rissa asked.

I shook my head, holding up a tight smile. “I am good.”

She chortled, “No, you are not. You are nervous. But I see no reason why you should be. You have walked into many places with your head up even when it was clear they were trying to intimidate you. Why is this any different?”

I exhaled slowly, wishing I could tell her it wasn’t about that. The whole city gives me the chills. “Don’t mind me. I guess it is the whole city vibe that is making me a bit anxious.”

“You don’t need to. By the time we explore the entire city, the anxiety will be gone.” Rissa squealed in excitement.

I couldn’t resist the laughter that bubbled in my throat, she is quite amusing. Rissa was one of the people that I was quick to warm up to when I started working at Ford's Interior. She is Liam’s assistant and works really hard. At my arrival, there were whispers of me having an intimate relationship with Liam, which explains the reason why he would employ a novice and allow me to be involved in every project.

So I had to work twice as hard to prove that isn’t the case and in fact, I have enough potential for him to always want me in his company. Rissa wasn’t part of the gossip troupe, which helped me find my footing quickly and not get distracted.

I was so glad that she agreed to relocate alongside Liam and i. the three of us are practically starting afresh and it feels so nice to have them with me. makes me feel slightly at ease. And Knox appears to like his school and our penthouse. It is breathtaking, you can practically see the whole of Atlanta from the window. When he saw his room that had already been decorated just like I asked, he was over the moon and kept confessing his love to me. A small smile tugged at my lips at the memory. I would do just about anything to see my son so happy.

“Hey!” Rissa pulled my hand. “Don’t tell me you are daydreaming again. We need to head to the office now before Liam gets our head.” she urged.

I hurried after her, preparing myself for the future that lies ahead. Liam didn’t look pleased when we arrived at the floor that would house us for years to come.

“Why are you two just arriving now? Didn’t I tell you the CEO would like to have a meeting with us?” he queried. One thing with Liam, he never jokes around when it comes to the business. If he needs to check you, he would not hesitate.

“Sorry about that. It is my fault, I took time to get Knox ready for school and Rissa had to wait for me so we could ride together.” I answered.

His facial expression softened at that. “I get it. You two will get your personal cars by the end of today or tomorrow. But don’t let this happen again. We can't afford to give them the wrong impression when we have just started working. Is Gina due to arrive today?”

I bobbed my head, “Yes, I will pick her up at the airport after work. And I promise not to be late again.” I said. I got lucky with my movement here as I didn’t have to start finding another nanny. Gina said she wouldn’t mind moving. It felt like our paths were thoroughly intertwined. It is only a matter of time before Knox settles in well.

Liam cleared his throat loudly, dipping his hands in his pockets while holding up a sheepish grin. “So what do you two think about our office space?”

Rissa smacked her lips in delight. “Exquisite is the word. Ford's interior doesn’t look this good.”

“Say that again and you will be back in there.” He threatened.

She made a cute face wiggling her brows at him. “You know you won't. You can’t do without me, boss.” She teased.

“We will see about that,” he said with an eyeroll. I laughed at their usual banter. “What do you think, Briar?”

I looked around the work space that appeared quite colorful and relaxing. It had all the warm colors with design elements that would leave one inspired to work. I stretched my neck a little to see the breakroom whose door was a bit ajar, and it had enough snack bars, coffee machines, and comfortable couches to rest. I think it is perfect. This is no doubt Liam’s request. It must have been one of the things he demanded be done if we were to work with them. He is forever an employee’s favorite.

“Judging by your smile, it is evident you like it too.” he barged into my thoughts.

I chuckled, “can’t say no to that. You went all out.” I noted.

Rissa snorted. “This wasn’t him. It's definitely the people around here.”

“Say what now?” Liam raised a brow.

“I didn’t even say anything.” She rolled her eyes playfully, scurrying off to check out the other rooms.

Rissa and Liam are childhood friends. He had employed her as his assistant trusting her ability to be of help to him even though she was only a high school graduate at the time. But she made his kindness worthwhile by doing her best at her position and also furthering her education while working. Liam on the other hand also started with just a passionate dream to beautify people’s homes. I am constantly inspired by them. Their professionalism and humane attitude are something I respect a lot.

“Earth to Briar, hello.” Liam waved in my face.

I blinked rapidly. “Oh, don’t mind me. I was just lost in thought for a split second. What is it?”

He smiled at me. “Nothing. I just wanted to be sure you are good. Is there anything you might like to change afterwards?”

I shook my head. “Not at all. This is really amazing. the house, the increased payment, and a soothing workspace. Thank you for making this happen and not throwing us to the wolves to feed.”

“It’s a partnership. They need us as much as we need them. If we weren’t worthy of all this, they wouldn’t give it to us. I would be making a fool of our company and what we stand for if I just allow them to push us around. So welcome on board.” He winked, showing his dimple. “The CEO should arrive soon, let's head to the boardroom. Also, we would be introduced to the team that we will be working with. I hear the head of business development is currently out of town on a business trip. So we would be introduced to her later.”

“Sounds perfect.” I grinned, following him into the boardroom.

Rissa wiggled her brows at me just as I took a seat and the other team members entered exchanging pleasantries. “Aren’t they so good looking?” she gestured at the two men who happened to be the project manager and procurement specialist.

I snorted, “Don’t start getting ideas now. We are no longer in Florida.” I cautioned while hiding a smile. She has a habit of desiring every good-looking man that comes her way.

“Who knows, I might actually find the right one this time.”

I chuckled. “You will never give up right?”

“Never ever.” She giggled.

“Oh, welcome sir. We have been awaiting your arrival.” Liam’s raised voice made us turn our heads to see who he was talking to. We stood up quickly to welcome the CEO. “Everyone, this is the CEO of AS real estate empire, Adrian Sterling.” He announced and my knees buckled in response.

What the hell?