Page 2 of After Hours

The memory of that traumatic time remains etched in my mind, a painful reminder of the unimaginable tragedy that unfolded. I’m slowly coming to terms with the belief that those babies are better off in heaven as Annalise would never have been a suitable mother. She continually attempted to reenter my life, but I was prepared to spend any amount of money to ensure she stayed far from me.

“Xander, were you ready to leave?” Mikkel, my driver and friend, asked, interrupting my thoughts.

“Yes, let’s go. I need to feed Pebbles.”

“Your mother stopped by and took care of her,” Mikkel informed me. My mother has an inexplicable attachment to Pebbles, but she’s not taking her. She tends to want everything that I have.

I left my office and headed home. Glancing around, the once love-filled space now felt painfully empty, and I anxiously anticipated the moment I could move into my penthouse. Despite the grandeur of the house, I questioned the purpose of having such a large space when there were no meaningful memories to cherish. The house carried the weight of betrayal, tarnishing the gift from my grandparents who would be disappointed to see it like this.

Upon entering the kitchen, Pebbles greeted me with enthusiasm, and I couldn’t help but smile at her exuberance.

“Hello, Pebbles,” I stooped down to pet her.

She barked in response and then returned to her doghouse.As I was about to prepare dinner, I noticed a box of food with a note on top of it.

Here’s some dinner because you’re probably working late. I love you, son.

Regards: Amy (Mom)

The note had a hint of irony, and I couldn’t decipher whether my mother was being genuine or not.

Surprisingly, I wasn’t planning to work late tonight. I was exhausted, and the thought of waking up at 6 a.m. for another repetitive day at the office was unappealing.

I needed some excitement in my life. I should have chosen a different city as my business base, as familiarity can breed boredom. And trust me, no one is as familiar with this city as I am. I basically own all of it.

Pebbles jumped into my arms, placing her head on my bicep. That’s her comfort spot, I’m not sure if it’s because of the tattoo I have there but she just loves that spot—and I’m sure its uncomfortable.

Tattoos weren’t my thing, but the one I have, is the most meaningful one. “Pridie melius quam ultimo,” which translates to “the day ahead will always be better than the last.” It’s a saying my grandmother, of Latin descent, used to tell me, and I found it a fitting tribute to her after she passed away.

Life doesn’t always go as planned, and things can change in the blink of an eye, but I’m still waiting for my moment. I may be flawed, but the right person will see past that. I won’t rush it; patience is a virtue. Whatever comes my way will be dangerously beautiful, and I can’t help but be intoxicated by the possibilities.

CHAPTER 2

Azzaria

Today isn’t my fucking day. I missed my alarm, and all the calls from my mom. The only thing going for me is that I’m pretty, and I’m sure that won’t put me in my boss’ good graces, so that brings me back to my initial fucked-up state.

I arrived at this massive building ten minutes late and stood in the lobby, feeling like a fish out of water.The building had about sixteen floors, and each floor was enormous. I don’t think I’ve ever seen a building this huge. Ever.

“Azzy?” I heard a very distinct and familiar voice call out. I was hoping he wouldn’t recognize me, but of course, he had to.

“Nicholas,” I said, fake smiling. “Hey.”

“What are you doing here?” he asked, looking confused.

“Why else are people in the building, Nicholas? I’m here for the internship interview, but I don’t know where to go.”

“Oh, that was today.”

“Mhm.”

“Well, babe,” he said, putting his arm around my shoulder, “you walk to the front desk and tell them why you’re here.”

Who was he calling “babe”? Just because we hooked up once or twice doesn’t mean we’re dating. He and I both knew there’s nothing romantic or loving here, and if he wanted that, he came to the wrong person.

“Nicholas,” I said, taking a deep breath, “I know that you’re easily confused and probably think that because we slept together a few times, this is a relationship, but it’s not. There are no feelings here, so never call me ‘babe’ again, ever,” I said aggressively and walked off.

It’s bad enough that I slept with him, and he wants to make it even worse by thinking we’re in a relationship. Hell no. Over. My. Dead. Body.

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