Aria’s POVThree days passedI stood amid the vibrant tulips in Amsterdam, their colors a stunning display against the backdrop of the clear blue sky, I couldn't help but feel a temporary sense of peace wash over me. I’ve been exploring museums and sightseeing spots the past three days since I got here, and it has been such a wonderful, eye-opening experience. Samuel was not able to join me yet because he had to fly to another city for a series of meetings and events. The moment I closed my eyes, the panic that had been starting to boil inside me rose to the surface. I remembered my interview at Elixir very vividly. Tina Bakker, the research manager, had looked at me intently and asked, "Who is Samuel Thorn to you?" It was a simple question, but one that held so much weight. I had answered truthfully, stating that he was a friend, but I made it clear that I didn't want any special consideration because of our friendship.Tina leaned forward, his gaze probing. "What are your views o
Aria’s POVArriving at the sleek, glass-paneled building of Elixir, I took a deep breath and reminded myself to smile. Today was the first day of the next screening process, and though I'd already passed the initial interview, I knew this was where the real challenge began. As I walked through the revolving doors, I felt a blend of nerves and excitement bubbling within me. My new role as the assistant to the research manager promised to be demanding, but I was determined to prove myself.In the lobby, a familiar woman with sharp eyes and an impeccable suit approached me. “Aria,” she called out, without a hint of a smile on her lips. It was Tina Bakker, my soon-to-be supervisor, and the one who had interviewed me initially. “Congratulations on passing the first part. However, there's much more to come.”“Thank you, Ms. Bakker,” I replied, trying to keep my voice steady.Tina nodded, her demeanor serious and efficient, a stark contrast to the more relaxed persona she had during the int
Aria’s POVI sat nervously in Tina's office, waiting for her to speak. She had been observing me closely over the past few days, evaluating my every move. But somehow, getting called in here felt different. I was greatly rattled. “Aria,” Tina began, her voice measured yet encouraging. “I've made my decision.”I held my breath, waiting for the verdict. Come on, I thought with anxiety. Let it out already!“After reviewing everything, including your performance in the interview and the work you’ve done so far, I've decided to keep you on board,” Tina said with a small smile.Relief flooded through me, though I tried to maintain composure. “Thank you so much, Tina. I really appreciate this opportunity.”Tina nodded. “You performed well in the interview, but there were candidates with more experience. What convinced me was Mr. Samuel Thorn's recommendation.”My heart sank slightly. Samuel. He was Tina's friend and boss, but I had specifically asked him not to pull any strings for me.“Tin
Aria’s POV“Aria!” Samuel exclaimed with genuine enthusiasm. “Sorry I came unannounced.”“Oh, don’t worry about it,” I responded, grinning back. “Come in, come in.”He stepped inside, his tall frame filling the narrow entryway. “I’ve been so busy with a new company these past few days,” he began, “I haven't had a chance to celebrate your new job with you. But as soon as I wrapped up everything, I came straight here.”“Well, I'm glad you did,” I said, leading him to the couch that I had proudly purchased second-hand. We both sat down, the familiar creak of the springs beneath us. “How’s work going?” he asked, his eyes twinkling with curiosity.I couldn’t help but beam with excitement. “It's been amazing, Samuel! The past few days have been a whirlwind, but I’m learning so much. Tina is demanding, but I really like the challenge. I feel like I’m growing every day.” I went on to describe to him everything that I had learned and experienced so far, as well as some colleagues that I had go
Aria’s POVMy husband Victor was chatting animatedly with his former university classmate Shane, their faces alight with excitement as they discussed their collaborative project. Shane Morgan again, I thought bitterly, gazing at the attractive woman who was standing very close to him. They’re always together.I watched from the sidelines, my heart both heavy and excited with a secret that no one knew about yet – the newly received pregnancy report that lay in my bag.“I've been working on this new app idea that’s going to be a game changer for many companies,” I heard Victor tell her, his brown eyes sparkling with enthusiasm.“We’ll be the marketing arm, of course,” Shane quipped with a big smile. “It’s going to be awesome working together on another avant-garde software that’s bound to make waves in the industry!”Victor chuckled. “Of course my company’s products won’t take off without the help of a very reliable partner — you.” He turned toward Shane, his expression soft and gentle
Aria’s POVAs I walked out, I could still hear them fussing over Shane. The chatter and concerned murmurs filtered through the heavy doors while the waiters gave me strange looks. I felt extremely embarrassed and humiliated, so I hurried outside, desperate to escape their prying eyes.The rain pelted down relentlessly, soaking me to the skin within moments. Shivering, I struggled to wrap my thin shawl tighter around me. I must have looked ridiculous, standing there drenched and miserable, trying to hail a cab. “Please, just let me get out of here,” I muttered under my breath, casting frantic glances down the deserted street.“Aria!” I heard someone calling my name. My heart sank. Great, just what I needed. Someone to give me more trouble. I quickened my pace, ignoring the voice, hoping they'd take the hint and leave me alone. In my haste, I stepped awkwardly on a slick patch of pavement. Pain shot through my ankle as it twisted beneath me, and I pitched forward, bracing myself for
Aria’s POVJust as I was about to speak, Victor straightened up and waved his hand to interrupt me. “Aria, I think you should apologize to Shane and to my mother,” he said firmly.What the hell for? So that’s it? When I thought he was starting to care about me, all he wanted was for me to apologize for something I hadn't done.“I said, it wasn’t my fault. It was Shane. She grabbed me, trying to make me fall.” This explanation was really silly. How could he possibly believe me?Sure enough, as soon as I finished speaking, he impatiently waved his hand, signaling me to stop talking."Can you stop being so childish? Why do you always pick on Shane? Can't you just learn something from Shane, even if it's just a little bit?"Great. He’s starting again, constantly comparing me to Shane.He kept on talking, but I started to think. In these five years of marriage, what did I really gain? Disdain, calloused hands from working like a laborer in the house, and my husband's dislike. No one think
Victor’s POVI can’t believe this woman’s being so irrational! What a way to throw a tantrum!The events of last night replayed in my head like a broken record. Aria's request for a divorce felt like a dagger through my heart. And yet, the more I thought about it, the more annoyed I got. I sat at my office desk, my mind swirling with confusion and frustration. Taking a big gulp from the wine I had in front of me, I decided to get back to the task I was doing. But I could not focus. Aria’s face kept popping up in my head, her voice echoing in my ears. Last night, when I’d come back from a work-related errand, my mother and brother were already gone. I had slept in the guest room, not wanting to face Aria after our argument. Today, throughout the day at the office, I tried to lose myself in the piles of documents and hours of meetings, but Aria's words had kept etched in my mind. Her jealousy, her constant need for attention, it all felt so unlike the woman I had married. I remember