Unwinding

“I mean it,” Ivy said, her tone firm. “You need a fresh start, Em. A place far away from all this. You’re brilliant, organized, and more than capable of handling the role. I’ve already accepted the offer, but they don’t know what I look like. You could easily step in.”

Emma stared at Ivy, dumbfounded. “You can’t be serious. That’s your job, Ivy. I can’t just—”

“Yes, you can,” Ivy interrupted. “Look, I don’t even want the job, you know it. I accepted it because my mom kept nagging me about getting a stable job, but I hate the idea of being stuck in an office. You, on the other hand, need a clean break. This is perfect for you.”

Emma hesitated, her heart pounding. The idea of leaving everything behind—her apartment, her routines, the ghost of her relationship with Liam—was both terrifying and tempting. Could she really just pick up and start over in a completely different city?

Though she had been the one to bring up the idea of leaving Florittle but could she go to Zeden and work as Ivy Anderson? That meant changing her identity. Could she do that?

“I don’t know, Vee,” Emma said softly, shaking her head. “What if I screw it up and they catch me? What if I’m not good enough?”

“Stop that,” Ivy said firmly, grabbing Emma’s hands. “You are more than good enough. You’ve been managing projects and people for years at your current job. This is just another challenge, and I know you can handle it. Besides, it’s not forever. Just take the opportunity, clear your head, and figure out what you want next after all this.”

Emma bit her lip, her mind racing. The idea of escaping the painful memories of Liam and the humiliation of tonight was undeniably appealing.

But stepping into someone else’s role, especially as a secretary to a CEO she didn’t even know—it felt like a leap into the unknown.

Though her sister was in Zeden and she could feel at ease going back to the back she once started, she didn't know if going back there and taking a job there at a company that hadn't even been operating for more than a year as someone else was a good idea.

“What if they find out I’m not you?” she asked finally.

“They won’t,” Ivy assured her. “I’ll coach you on everything you need to know. You’re already great at interviews and administrative work. And the CEO? He’s apparently some workaholic billionaire who barely pays attention to anything outside of his spreadsheets. Trust me, you’ll be fine.”

Emma took a deep breath, her pulse quickening. Could she really do this? Leave behind her old life and take a chance on something completely new?

The thought was overwhelming, but so was the prospect of staying here, drowning in heartbreak and what-ifs.

“Okay,” she said finally, her voice trembling with a mix of fear and determination. “I’ll do it.”

Ivy grinned, squeezing her hands. “That’s my girl. You won’t regret this, Em. Zeden is the fresh start you need.”

“One more thing,” Emma said giving Ivy a pleading look.

“What is it and why do you have that look on your face?” Ivy asked, raising an eyebrow.

“Promise me you won't tell Evelyn about how Liam and I broke up? I don't want her worrying over me,” Emma said and Ivy made a lip zip gesture.

“I won't,” Ivy said and Emma sighed.

“Thanks for having my back,” Emma said and Ivy waved it off.

“It's nothing, Em. C'mon, let’s start packing your things so you can leave tomorrow or over the weekend. This might just be the escape you need,” Ivy said.

Standing up, they walked over to Emma's room to start packing.

‘Just what more could possibly go wrong’ was the last thought on her mind as they walked into her room.

Friday evening, Emma arrived at Evelyn’s apartment in Zeden, a mix of nervousness and relief bubbling inside her.

It was a sleek, modern space on the seventh floor of a high-rise, with large windows offering a stunning view of the city skyline.

Evelyn greeted her at the door, her face lighting up as she pulled her sister into a tight hug.

“Finally! Welcome back to Zeden, Em!” Evelyn beamed, stepping aside to let Emma drag her suitcase in.

“Thanks, Eve,” Emma said with a tired smile, glancing around the chic apartment. “This place is amazing. Are you sure you’re okay with me crashing here for a while?”

Evelyn waved her hand dismissively. “Are you kidding? I’ve been dying to have a roommate. This place is way too big for just me. Plus, it’s not ‘crashing,’ t’s living with your awesome little sister.”

Emma chuckled, her shoulders relaxing a little. It was comforting to be around Evelyn’s vibrant energy after the whirlwind of emotions she’d been through these past few days.

Evelyn grabbed the suitcase from Emma’s hand. “Come on, I’ll show you your room. You’ll love it.”

The guest room was cozy and bright, with soft gray walls and crisp white bedding. A few decorative touches, like a framed cityscape and a vase of fresh flowers, made the space feel warm and welcoming.

“Wow, this is perfect,” Emma said, running her hand along the edge of the bed.

“Only the best for my lil sis,” Evelyn said with a wink. “Unpack, freshen up, and then we’re going out.”

Emma groaned, flopping onto the bed. “Eve, I just got here. Can’t we stay in and order takeout? I could cook if you want....”

“Nope. You’re back here after a whole year, and you’re not spending your first night back here holed up in your room. We’re going to unwind, have a drink, and enjoy the Zeden nightlife—low-key, I promise,” Evelyn added quickly when Emma shot her a skeptical look.

Emma sighed, knowing there was no point arguing. “Fine. But no wild clubs or crazy karaoke bars.”

“Scout’s honor,” Evelyn said, grinning.