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We never talked, just walked in silence, but his presence had become… familiar. Comforting, in a way I never expected. It was the only time I got to see him. James has been keeping his distance at work, so I rarely catch a glimpse of him around the office or at Eden.
But today? There’s no James.
I wait another minute, telling myself it doesn’t matter. I should be relieved—he’s finally leaving me be. But when it becomes clear he’s not coming,a hollow sensation seeps into my heart. I shake my head, trying to push away the disappointment. It seems our expiration date on this dance is up.
It’s better this way.
I shove my hands in my pockets and start walking, my footsteps slower than usual. My legs are heavier, and I hate that his absence has this effect on me.The empty space beside me feels more pronounced with every step.
Did he reach his limit?
Or did he wake up this morning and realize I wasn’t worth the effort?
I reach the station, and for the first time in months, I’m alone.
When I arrive at the office, I’m in a pissy mood.
“Morning, Rossi!” Nathan booms, far too chipper for a Monday. “How was your weekend?” He’s grinning from ear to ear, bouncing on the balls of his feet. The guy needs to lay off the caffeine. Stat.
I force a tight smile, tossing my purse into the desk drawer with a little more oomph than I intended.
“Meh.” I shrug.
“Wow, someone’s in a mood,” he drawls. “Well, this’ll brighten your day. Emergency town hall called for this morning.”
“What? What’s the emergency?” I ask, frowning. My thoughts immediately shift to work, relieved for the distraction.
“Beats me. If I knew, I wouldn’t have to go,” he deadpans.
“Whatever.” I huff, rolling my eyes.
His grin widens, and I fight the urge to whack him with a file folder.
We stop for coffee on our way to the auditorium and I manage to convince Nathan to order decaffeinated, since he doesn’t need more adrenaline running through his veins. We enter the crowded auditorium just in time to see James confidently stride onto the stage. I pause for a second, my heart flipping in that irritating way it always does when I see him.
So, he didn’t sleep in after all.
I take my seat, forcing my eyes anywhere but on him, but I can’t help stealing glances. My body betrays me every damn time. His baby blue shirt stretches over his chest, his sleeves are rolled up, showcasing those muscular forearms, and his hair is perfectly tousled.
Damn it.
But something about his stance is off today. He looks tense. Nervous, even. I take a sip of my coffee and sit up a little straighter, watching him closely.
“Good morning, everyone. Thanks for attending on such short notice.” His voice is steady, but there’s a stiffness in it that makes me uneasy. “I wanted to address some of the changes we’ve implemented in the company over the past year, particularly in regard to our work culture. I’ve seen significant improvements at all levels, and that’s largely thanks to one person—Cora Rossi.”
What?
The room seems to shrink as all eyes turn to me. My cheeks flush instantly, and I sink into my seat, suddenly too hot under the bright lights.
What the hell is he doing?
“Her leadership and commitment have been instrumental in improving morale and creating a more positive environment for everyone here.”
The eyes of my colleagues are on me—some smiling, some murmuring—but all I can do is stare at James, my heart pounding.
“Most of what I’ve said could’ve been sent in an email.” James clears his throat. “But the truth is… this town hall is personal for me.” He pauses, taking an intentional breath, his fingers flexing on the edge of the podium. “I’ve learned that to be an effective leader, I need to demonstrate openness and vulnerability. So, I’m standing here today in front of you all, attempting to do just that. Because I’ve fallen in love… with someone in this room.”
My stomach flips, and my coffee nearly slips from my grasp. The room collectively gasps, soft whispers rippling through the crowd.