Ugh, the story of my life - having to work twice as hard just to get half as far as everybody else. It's like the universe hands you a little something, but then instantly snatches it back with the other hand. This struggle? It's been my constant companion. “Sophie, come down! Breakfast is ready, and you’ll be late for work,” called my mom, the one person in my life who hasn’t turned into a burden. “I’ll be down in a minute, Mama,” I replied, rushing to the dining table. “Good morning, Mommy,” greeted my child. Yes, I have a child too. Now you know there are two people in my corner. “Good morning, baby,” I said, planting a quick peck on his cheek before almost inhaling my breakfast and ignoring my mom nagging about taking it slow. I was too pumped for this new job to care about little indigestion. With food still in my mouth, I squeezed both of them and hurried outside, ignoring my mom’s reminder to drink some water. “Be good, sweetheart. I love you,” she called after me. At wo
I was flipping through each page of the file, trying to identify what needed to be changed, but I couldn’t place my finger on it. I was still engrossed when they all returned from meeting the new president. Laughter and friendly banter filled the air. "Oh. My. God. He is so dreamy like something out of a romance novel!" Mia gushed, giggling like a schoolgirl. Derby, who's married, chimed in, "I can already picture having his babies!" "Hey now, keep those babies to yourself, Mrs. Taken! The rest of us single ladies call dibs," Mia playfully nudged her. I wished I could join in this conversation, but the pressure to deliver wouldn’t allow me to act like a normal human being. Celine did one of those loud cough-clears to get everyone's attention. "Alright ladies, that's enough daydreaming. Let’s get back to business!" As everyone shuffled back to their desks, Celine zeroed in on me. "You. Yeah, you over there. Can we have a word?" I looked around, realizing she meant me. "Who, me?"
I got to the office super early, eager for the presentation. It was an avenue to show my prowess and I would make the most of this opportunity. My sleepless night can’t be in vain and it’s time I make Celine see I am in the right place. As I hurriedly arranged the file, I whispered to myself, rehearsing exactly what I would say to him.“Good morning” Mia greeted as she walked up to me.“ Good morning Mia” I was surprised as this was the first time she had spoken to me since I got the job “ Don’t tell me you will be meeting the president looking like this” she remarked with scorn on her face, her hand scanning me from my head to my toe“And what’s wrong with what I’m wearing,” I said angrily “Nothing anyways not like you stand a chance.” She said with a dangerous smile and she added before sitting “ That’s my man so do the business you’re being paid to do and don’t get carried away”“You must be crazy,” I said under my breath “What did you just say” she asked but I didn’t dignify he
PASTI was working at a café to save up for college because my family was struggling financially. We could barely afford basic necessities, and my dream of going to school felt like a distant luxury. But I kept pushing myself, knowing that education was the key to a better future for us. “Mom, you should rest today. I’ll stay with him at the hospital” I insisted “Oh, baby, don’t worry. You just got back from work and you must be exhausted” my mom replied her worry evident in her tired eyes “I want to feel useful and to be by his side because I know he would do the same for me” I explained trying to ease her burden “We’re your parents and that’s our responsibility,” she said her hand on my face. “Your food is on the table. Make sure to close the door properly” “Okay mama,” I said hugging her tightly. I might not see you before I go to work in the morning but I will be good, I promise so don’t worry about me.” She nodded before saying Goodnight and then exited the house while I ma
PASTA few days had passed since my encounter with the handsome stranger. He hadn’t called or texted, even though he had my number. I kept checking my phone at every beep I heard, hoping it was him, only to be disappointed every single time. He didn’t even show up at the cafe anymore. I finally accepted the reality that he wouldn’t contact me. Perhaps he didn’t feel the attraction I thought he did, or maybe it was all just in my head. I decided not to dwell on my feelings for someone I barely knew when I had other stuff to focus on, like going to visit my dad on my day off.Although he couldn’t speak to me anymore, I still loved spending time with him. I got dressed and headed towards the hospital, determined not to let this silly thing with the handsome stranger consume my thoughts any longer. He shouldn’t have this much influence on me.I was stressed from overthinking; I could sense my head about to explode, so I made the decision to take a walk and clear my mind. I took a longer r
I pulled a long, calming breath and started to move away from the wall; my feet alternated after each other. There was work to be done, a new project awaiting my attention. Dwelling on the ghosts of my past was a luxury I couldn’t afford not when my future was on the line. As I approached my desk, Celine’s stern voice cut through the air. “Sophie, Mia has expressed her interest in the landmark project, and I’ve approved it. She’s in the best position to handle it, I didn’t even know why I gave it to you at first. Take over hers and start working immediately. I would need it ready by next week Thursday.” “Understood, Celine. I’ll ensure a smooth transition and have everything ready by next Thursday,” I replied “Good” she acknowledges before stringing away I turned to my desk, sat down, and opened my laptop; finding the email from Mia regarding her project that was now mine. However, before I could even begin reading it, Mia herself approached me. “Sophie, is there anything speci
The sound of my alarm pierced the silence, marking the beginning of yet another workweek. I groaned, longing to linger in bed a little longer, but responsibility beckoned. I reluctantly rose from the bed and began my morning routine.When I arrived at the office, I settled in and started reviewing the file I'm to report on this week. I was making good progress when suddenly Mia burst into the room, her eyes red and her face visibly showing she was heartbroken."Mia, what's wrong?" I asked, concern etching my features.Without a word, Mia strode up to my desk and flung the file down in front of me, papers scattering everywhere. "Didn't he like it?" I asked, looking at the papers and then to her face."Wouldn't that be better? At least then he would take a look at it to decide," she said, frustratedly."Then..." Before I could even complete my thought, she chimed in."He wouldn't even look at me or the file. He asked why I'm the one doing it and not you. I even explained it's because I'
I couldn't help but marvel at the stranger I had just conversed with, as he was not the sweet and ever-loving Alex I was used to. I quickly sent him the file he had requested, but a reply was nowhere in sight. The minutes ticked by, each second feeling like an eternity as I waited for some kind of feedback.At last, an email notification appeared, signaling a message from AlexMy heart pounded as I opened it, hoping for some positive response or at least constructive criticism. However, what I read left me stunned."Rejected. Not up to standards. Revise and resend."That was it. No specific feedback, no explanation of what was lacking or needed improvement. I felt disheartened and annoyed by his rejection. I couldn't wrap my head around why he was making things so complicated. I went over the document I had sent examining each word and image carefully. I couldn't spot any errors.I was set on getting to the bottom of this so I crafted a reply asking for an explanation."Mr. Hernandez,
My gut twisted as Alex and I entered the hospital. I couldn’t believe I was here to visit Herbert. The antiseptic smell hit me as we stepped inside making me wrinkle my nose."You okay?" Alex asked softly, squeezing my hand.I simply nodded my head. It was at this time that I saw my mother in the lobby looking so worried yet relieved to see me.“Sophie, honey,” she called out and ran to us. "I am happy you are here."Alex greeted her with a kiss on the cheek. "Hi, Mrs McDermott. How are you holding up?""As well as can be expected, Alex. Thank you for bringing Sophie."I frowned, crossing my arms. "Mom, why are you even here? I still don't understand."My mother sighed, her eyes pleading. "Sophie, I'm human before anything else. He has nobody to look after him. I'm just doing what's right.""He has money, Mom," I argued, feeling my frustration rise. "That can get him all the care he needs. What makes a man who didn't support you so important to you?""Sophie, I didn't raise you to hav
We just settled into a more comfortable conversation and the atmosphere gradually became more relaxed. They kept asking several questions about Dawson and couldn’t help smiling at his antics "He sounds like quite the character," Mrs. Hernandez said, her eyes twinkling. "Just like his father at that age."Alex chuckled. "I wasn't so mischievous, was I?"Mr. Hernandez lifted an eyebrow. "Son, you once convinced the gardener's boy to help you 'redecorate' my study with finger paint. It took weeks to get the walls clean.""Oh, I remember that!" Mrs. Hernandez laughed. "You were so proud of your 'artwork'. We couldn't stay mad at you for long."As laughter filled the room, I felt myself relax. Alex's parents were so different from the harsh, condemning individuals I remembered from years before.There was a faint knock on the door. Duncan entered, his face serious."Mr. and Mrs. Hernandez, I apologize for disturbing but there is urgent news," he said.Mr. Hernandez's smile vanished. "What
The day had finally arrived. Alex had informed his parents we were coming, and my nerves were in shambles. I put on a brave face for Alex, assuring him everything was fine, but inside I was a mess. When he went to get Dawson ready, I seized the moment to steady myself.My fingers shook as I dialed my mother's number."Mom, it's happening," I muttered. Today."On the other end, there was an unexpected rapid intake of air. "Oh, sweetheart. Are you ready for this?"I closed my eyes. "I have to be. For Dawson. For Alex.""And for yourself," Mom added gently. "You've carried this weight for so long. It's time to put an end to it all.""But what if history repeats itself? What if they-""Stop right there," Mom interrupted. "You're not that young girl anymore. You're a strong woman and an incredible mother. Stand tall, Sophie. Her words gave me strength, but I still doubted myself and I knew I needed one more boost. I quickly called Celine."Sophie! What's up? Everything okay?" Celine's voi
I walked into Alex’s house feeling weary but relieved after talking to my mom. The living room was lit with the faint sound of a cartoon playing in the background. Rounding the corner, I was immediately struck by the cutest sight.Alex was lying flat on the couch with Dawson dozing on his chest. I had to bite back a smile at how cute they looked in their matching superhero pajamas. Alex noticed me, his eyes brightening and a lovely smile spreading across his face."Well, well, look who decided to join us," he teased softly, careful not to wake Dawson.I rolled my eyes playfully. "Miss me that much, huh?""Always," Alex replied, his voice husky. He carefully shifted Dawson and stood up, crossing the room in a few long strides. Before I could react, he had me in his arms, spinning me around."Alex!" I laughed, wrapping my arms around his neck. "Put me down, you goof!"He set me down but kept his arms around my waist. "You’re not getting away that easily," he whispered, his lips inches f
The ride up to our suite seemed to take a lifetime. My heart was like a drum as I tried to come up with something to say to her but as soon as the lift doors opened, everything I had planned to say vanished. I lightly knocked on the door, a slight trembling in my palm. I felt a rush of emotions when the door opened with my mom at the other end "Mommy.” I choked out, giving her a tight hug. “I’m sorry.”“Sophie, my baby,” she whispered and embraced me closely. We both dissolved into tears.After a moment, Mom gently pulled back. "Let's go inside, sweetie," she murmured, her voice filled with emotions. When I entered the room, I turned to face her and really took her in. She appeared exhausted, her eyes red and swollen. "How are you?" I asked softly She gave a watery smile. "I am happy you are here. I have missed you so much.""You didn't call," I said, unable to keep the hurt from my voice.Mom reached out, taking my hand in hers. "I know you needed time and space to process ever
“Hey, toss it here!" Alex called out, waving his arms.Dawson laughed and aimed the ball toward Alex. With a slightly unsteady flight, he caught it by a dramatic leap."Nice throw, buddy!" he cheered, making Dawson beam with pride.I couldn't help but smile from my spot. Watching them play, hearing their laughter...it was a dream come true."You got this, Dawson," Alex encouraged as he rolled the ball back. "Just take your time."Dawson stuck his tongue out slightly, focusing hard on the ball. This time, his kick sent it flying straight and true."Goal!" Alex shouted, throwing his hands up in celebration. "We've got a little Messi on our hands!"Their game went on, there was clapping, laughing, and a little bit of ‘oh no’ when the ball went astray. Finally, it rolled to a halt right in front of me.“Okay, you two,” I said, as I grabbed it. “I believe that is enough for today”‘Mommy,’ Dawson complained, then his face twisted into a smile. "Did you see? I won!"Alex came over, ruffling
I woke up with a start, having Alex’s arm around my waist. I was confused for a second about what had woken me up. Then I heard it… raised voices from downstairs."Mrs. Hernandez, please," a stressed female voice pleaded. "I'm only following Mr. Alex's instructions. You can't just barge in like this!""I am his mother," came a sharp reply. "I have every right to see my son!"My heart raced. Alex's mom was here? I turned to face Alex, who was still sound asleep beside me. "Alex," I muttered, softly shaking his shoulder. "Alex, wake up. Your mom's here."Alex groaned, his arm tightening around my waist. "Mmm, five more minutes," he mumbled, nuzzling into my neck."Alex, I'm serious," I insisted, though I couldn't help but smile at his sleepy affection. "Your mother is downstairs, and it sounds like she's about to break down the door."Alex cracked open one eye, a mischievous glint visible. "I don't hear anything," he said, his lips curving into a grin as he started planting soft kisses
I tried to reply, but the words would not come out. Rather, I pressed my face against his shoulder and sucked in a quivering breath."It's fine. I'm here now," Alex murmured soothingly, his arms strong and secure around me.After a moment, he gently pulled away and scooped up Dawson, securing him in the back seat, and guided me into the seat next to the driver. "I do not want to go home," I murmured Alex's eyes met mine, filled with understanding. "I didn't have any intention of leaving either of you. “We're going to my house."As we drove, Alex glanced at me like he just remembered something. “What about your mom?”"She's okay, but I'd prefer not to discuss her at this time." Alex took out his phone and made a call to one of his housekeepers. "Sarah I need you to get some new clothes and toiletries for a child. Yes, as quickly as feasible.”The rest of the drive passed in silence. When we arrived at Alex's house, he turned to me. "Why don't you go freshen up? I'll take care of Daw
My mother's eyes softened as she looked at me. "James was a good man, Sophie. He raised you as his own because he adored both of us.” "That is the father I have known my whole life and will know for the rest of my days. This man here can never be my father," I sobbed, my voice trembling with wrath. "Sophie, I know you are upset but please try to understand,” my mother begged. "We made this decision out of love.""Love?" I scoffed. "You call lying to me for decades love?""I wanted to give you a stable family, a father who would be there for you-"I cut her off. "By erasing my real father from my life? By pretending Dad was my biological father?""It wasn't that simple, sweetheart. I was young, afraid, and alone when I found out I was pregnant-""So you just decided to trap Dad into raising another man's child?"I spat, regretting my words instantly but being too hurt to take them back. "Sophie!" My mom let out a gasp, her eyes filling with tears. "That wasn't the case. Your father..