ONE

Unfortunately, Griffin isn't as fortunate as others when it comes to romantic relationships. His parents control his life, and even his love life isn't left to chance by others. Moreover, his past relationship has left scars that have yet to heal and that he struggles to overcome.

The sun has risen, and the mask of maturity is once again worn by many. Griffin is no exception, as he's dressed and ready to go to the office to lead the monthly meeting.

Griffin stands in front of a large mirror in his room. He gazes at his reflection, takes a deep breath, preparing for breakfast with his family. Griffin soon sits down at the dining table, alternatingly smiling at his father and mother, pretending that the routine he has been performing for years is so beautiful.

"Fin, when are you willing to marry Robinson's son? Your father is tired of avoiding Robinson's questions demanding clarity," Alex asks innocently, as if unaware that his question might hurt his son's feelings.

"Patience, Dad! Griffin needs time to prepare to lead the family, especially to start a relationship with Susan. Griffin also needs time to figure out what kind of woman he will marry," Griffin responds as if he has followed his parents' words but hasn't yielded any results.

"Is it because you still hope that girl will return to you? Have you forgotten the reason she traded you for her interests?" Griffin's mother asks about a conversation that consistently frustrates Griffin and affects his mood, especially at work.

Griffin closes his eyes and places his fork and spoon beside his plate with a little force, making Alex and Vion close their lips tightly. This discussion has irritated Griffin for the umpteenth time, and he suddenly loses his appetite.

"I'm done!" Griffin exclaims, getting up from the dining table. He hasn't even finished the sandwich made by Vion, but his appetite vanishes upon hearing the never-ending topic of marriage, which he has never thought about.

"Dad doesn't care, two weeks from now! You must be engaged to Anna!" Alex stands up, raising his voice slightly to Griffin, who immediately stops.

Griffin turns around, not saying a word and heads for his car. He doesn't start the engine inside the car, staring at his reflection in the side mirror. He loosens his tie, even though he had neatly put it on earlier in the morning before leaving his room.

"Argh..." he shouts, pounding the steering wheel in frustration, his face genuinely frustrated, but he still goes to the office to lead the meeting.

The office meeting ends early, with all the employees rushing out, including Griffin and Zaylee, representing their respective companies. Suddenly, Ben appears at the door, smiling widely as he approaches Griffin and Zaylee, who are walking.

Griffin doesn't deny that he once asked his father to place him in the same company as Zaylee, claiming that he would not rekindle a romantic relationship with her. Now, Griffin regrets it. It's about burying that desire and regretting his decision to work in the same company as Zaylee, a mental torment with no cure.

"Congratulations! Thanks to your survey, this project has been completed to satisfaction," Benny, the CEO of Power Group's partner company, says. In turn, the middle-aged man pats Griffin and Zaylee on the back, and Griffin and Zaylee exchange awkward smiles.

From their glances, there's something they're hiding. Whether they like it or not, they still have to appear professional, both Griffin and Zaylee, even though their relationship is deteriorating, worse than before, perhaps.

Maybe Griffin used to be willing to exchange greetings with his ex-girlfriend, now his partner, during meetings with colleagues. Now, Griffin seems to ignore Zaylee's presence in his room. He only discusses with Dicky, keeping Zaylee at a distance.

Zaylee is sinking further due to Griffin's cold treatment. It's as if what happened in Sydney was all part of Zaylee's plan. She feels helpless and doesn't know how to ask for help. Griffin's coldness becomes more apparent.

"Mr. Griffin!" Zaylee calls out, mustering the courage to address the man in front of her, who seems to be hurrying to their room.

Zaylee's call weakens Griffin's steps, and he slowly matches Zaylee's seemingly slower pace.

Griffin turns to Zaylee, still waiting for the right moment to speak, as many colleagues pass them. Griffin looks sharply at Zaylee because she is taking too long and still hasn't said what she meant by calling him.

Once inside the elevator, they are alone. Zaylee wants to speak her mind, but she doesn't have the courage. She's sure that Griffin's response will only hurt her even more.

"Is there something you want to say? I'm sure you didn't just call me for nothing," Griffin says coldly, not turning his face to look at her. Only his eyes meet hers to have a conversation.

Griffin tries to avoid Zaylee, feeling haunted by the events in Sydney whenever Zaylee's face crosses his mind. Just like now, during the meeting, he can't focus on what his subordinates are saying and the reports from each department on the company's progress.

Zaylee tightens her lips, hesitating to say just a few words. Griffin is getting angrier at himself for delving more deeply, but Zaylee seems half-hearted about talking to him.

"Say it quickly! Don't beat around the bush; I'm in a hurry for the next meeting. There's no time to listen to your empty words," Griffin harshly says, waiting for Zaylee to speak as if waiting for a newspaper response for so long.

"I'm pregnant, Mr. Griffin!"

"Do you think I believe your confession? I'm not that gullible, Zaylee Caroline!" Griffin leaves the girl, who is now standing there with fiery eyes, hurt by his words as a woman.

"What do you mean...."

"Griffin!" Zaylee yelled in frustration, her chest rising and falling as she tried to control her emotions. Griffin's words had indeed wounded her pride as a woman.

"Why are you angry? Isn't it reasonable for me to doubt that I'm not the father of that fetus? It could be the guy you brought to your apartment a few years ago!" Griffin cursed, stepping forward to close the distance between them. Zaylee backed away, her legs suddenly weak, hearing Griffin's bitter, resentment-filled insults from the past.

There is no response from Griffin. Zaylee doesn't get any explanation, either. Griffin hesitates momentarily and then walks away, leaving her alone in the hallway.

"You jerk!"

***