Lunch Break

In the bustling premises of The Reynolds Consulting Group – a prestigious consulting firm owned by Margaret Reynolds, Emily’s Aunt, was where Sarah and Emily worked. The firm was known for its holistic approach to business success, specializing in providing strategic advice, leadership development, and business consulting services to corporations and high-profile individuals. Both girls worked there, especially Emily, who was under the mentorship of her Aunt. Emily worked as a business consultant, while Sarah, with her vibrant personality, was adept as a marketing specialist.

In the office cafeteria, Sarah and Emily found a quiet corner to enjoy their lunch break. The air hummed with the subtle sounds of conversation and the aroma of freshly brewed coffee. Sarah, with her infectious energy, animatedly recounted the story of how they first met during their college days.

“Em, do you remember that time in the library when I accidentally knocked over a whole stack of books, and you helped me pick them up? That’s when our friendship was sealed! You've been my partner in crime ever since,” Sarah chuckled, savoring the memory.

Emily rolled her eyes, although the subtle smile on her lips revealed the close bond they shared. “You mean the time you turned an embarrassing situation into a spectacle of humour?”

“Come on, it was funny! That moment was legendary.”

Emily opened her mouth in mock surprise. “Legendary? More like a comedy of errors!”

Sarah’s infectious laughter resonated throughout the cafeteria, causing a few to turn their heads towards them. “Sure, Em, but that moment sealed our fate as best friends. From that day forward, we were unstoppable!”

Emily’s eyes sparkled with amusement as she took a sip of her coffee. “Unstoppable, indeed. Remember the countless nights we spent cramming for exams, fueled by an unhealthy amount of caffeine and determination?”

Sarah nodded enthusiastically, her emerald-green eyes widening with mock drama. “Oh, those were the glory days! We conquered every challenge that came our way, armed with our wit and a seemingly endless supply of late-night snacks. You, my friend, have always been the brains behind our academic triumphs.”

Emily flashed a modest smile, her gaze filled with appreciation. “Well, you were the one who kept me sane throughout those sleepless nights. Your humor and infectious energy were like magic potions, revitalizing my exhausted mind.”

Sarah playfully nudged Emily’s arm, the sleeve of her floral dress shifting. “Aw, come on. You're just being modest. And don't forget the guys we dated in college! Oh, the tales we could tell. Remember when we both went on blind dates and ended up with two guys who couldn't tell a joke to save their lives?”

Emily burst into laughter, shaking her head. “Oh, I remember that disaster. We were practically inventing our own punchlines to salvage the evening. Good thing we had each other for comic relief.”

Sarah leaned in, her voice dropping to a conspiratorial whisper. “But Em, seriously, you need to loosen up a little when it comes to dating. You're so focused on your career, you hardly give the guys a chance. They're missing out on an amazing woman!”

Emily’s hazel eyes glistened with determination as she took another a sip of her drink. “Sarah, I appreciate your concern, but right now, my priority is restoring what my parents worked so hard to build. I want to bring justice to those who wronged them and reclaim my family's honour. Once I accomplish that, then maybe I'll consider giving dating a proper chance.”

Sarah gave Emily a disapproving glance, a mischievous glint evident in her brilliant green eyes. “Come on, Em, spill the beans. When was the last time you went on a date?”

Emily paused, her brows furrowing slightly as she tried to recall. “Hmm, maybe... three, four months ago? I think? Honestly, I've been so focused on work and this whole plan to restore my family’s legacy that dating has taken a backseat.”

Sarah feigned an air of dismay, dramatically placing a hand over her heart. “Four months? Oh, Em, you really need to loosen up a little! The world is full of eligible bachelors just waiting to sweep you off your feet. You can't let work consume your entire life!”

Emily chuckled, shaking her head. “I know, I know. And you're right. Maybe I should make more time for my personal life. But tell me, who was the hot guy you met last night? Don't leave me hanging!”

Sarah’s eyes lit up, a mischievous grin playing on her lips. “Oh, Em, he was something else! Tall, dark, and handsome with a smile that could melt hearts. We hit it off instantly, and let's just say, the sparks were flying.”

Emily’s eyebrows rose playfully. “Sparks, huh? Did you two... hook up already?”

Sarah burst into laughter, unable to contain her amusement. “Of course, I did! He was too hot and yummy, Em, I couldn't resist. The chemistry was off the charts!”

Emily leaned back in her chair, her voice laced with humour. “Well, I can’t blame you for seizing the moment. Give me all the juicy details, Sarah. Paint me a picture of this irresistible man.”

Sarah leaned in, her eyes gleaming with excitement. “Oh, where do I even begin? Picture this: a chiseled jawline, penetrating amber eyes that seemed to see right through me, and a voice that could make you weak in the knees. And his style? Impeccable. He had this suave air of confidence that was so sexy.”

As Sarah described the alluring stranger, Emily couldn’t help but let her mind wander for a moment. A fleeting image of Wyatt, regal and dashing in his tailored suit at the charity ball, flashed in her thoughts. She quickly shook her head, refocusing on Sarah’s animated storytelling.

Sarah continued, her words painting vivid scenes in Emily’s mind. “I’m telling you, Em, this guy was the full package. We had such a great time together, and who knows, maybe there's something more there. But enough about me, it's time for you to get out there and have some fun!”

Emily tittered, a playful glint in her eyes. “I'll do my best, Sarah. Maybe I'll meet my own tall, dark, and handsome stranger someday.” A subtle ache of wistfulness deep within Emily surfaced, but she forcefully pushed it aside, reminding herself of her mission, of the need to maintain her focus.

Just then, her gaze fell to her phone, the screen illuminating with a notification. Emily’s heart skipped a beat as she read the reminder on her calendar about her meeting with Wyatt. A mixture of anticipation and apprehension coursed through her veins. But before she could fully recall the time and place for the meeting, Sarah’s fingers snapped in front of her face, bringing her back to the present.

“Hey, Em, you zoned out on me again. What's going on? You've been acting strange lately.” Sarah's eyebrows furrowed with concern, her long, blonde hair cascading down her shoulders.

Emily blinked, momentarily caught off guard. She mustered a small smile, trying to reassure her best friend. “I'm sorry. It’s just... a lot on my mind lately.”

Sarah’s eyes searched Emily's face, a hint of concern etched on her features. “Okay, but you know you can always talk to me, right? I'm here for you, no matter what.”

Emily smiled, genuine warmth crossing her features. She reached across the table, squeezing Sarah’s hand in appreciation. “I know, Sarah, and I appreciate that more than you'll ever know. I promise, I'll explain everything soon.”

She had a mission to accomplish, and her focus had to be unwavering. Emily sighed, gathering her belongings. “I'm sorry to cut our lunch short, but I have somewhere important to be. I'll catch up with you later, alright?”

Sarah's eyes widened with curiosity, her playful nature piqued. “Somewhere important, huh? You've definitely got my attention. Just promise me you won't keep me in suspense for too long, okay?”

Emily nodded, a determined glint in her eyes. “I promise, Sarah. Soon, everything will make sense, and I'll share it all with you.”

With one final squeeze of her hand, Emily swiftly made her way out of the cafeteria, her mind consumed by thoughts of her meeting with Wyatt. She steeled herself, prepared to face the challenges that awaited her.