Page 67 of Romance with Mr. Bossy Pants

“There’s nothing you can say, Daniel,” she insists. “I’ve made up my mind. This is what I need to do. My desk is already packed.”

I open my mouth to argue and plead, perhaps say anything that might make her stay. But the resolve in her eyes is a stone wall I can’t climb.

My shoulders slump in defeat, completely forgetting that I’m holding a grand bouquet just for her.

“If that’s what you want,” my words taste like ash. “Then go. Thank you for everything.”

She heads for the door, but just as she reaches it, she pauses and turns back to me. Her eyes fall on the bouquet in my hand, a softness replacing the steel in her gaze.

“I’m glad you’re putting yourself out there again,” she says, a hint of the old warmth in her voice. “It’s about time.”

23

Chloe

Clearing out the workspace I’d settled in for the last three months is a breeze.

Everything I own could fit into my handbag. I make my rounds and hug the colleagues I’d grown close to, explaining that I’m going to chase my dreams. Everyone was curious. Apparently, they thought if I could survive a couple of months with Daniel, my success in this company would be cemented.

As I’m about to exit the building, Sarah catches up with me. “Chloe, got a sec?”

“Sure.”

Sarah gestures for us to step into a meeting room and closes the door. “Listen, I’ve got connections. If you ever face any problems at Carter & Associates...”

Her offer catches me off guard; I hadn’t clued her in any differently than the rest. Maybe Alex let something slip.

“Thanks,” is all I can muster.

She pauses, searching my face. “He’s fond of you, that much is clear.”

“His way of showing it could use some work.”

“He’s lonely and still harboring pain.”

I frown.

“A man’s pain is often hidden behind a tough facade. Seeing him content working alongside you gave me—and perhaps others—some hope.”

I had hope, too; I won’t lie.

“I appreciate your words,” I tell her. “And it’s comforting to know he has someone like you around. But if he’s suffering and can’t grow and change from that, I can’t stay.”

Sarah nods understandingly and wraps me in an embrace. “I’m serious. If there’s anything you need, you have my number.”

“Thanks, Sarah,” I say, my voice thick. “I know you’ll look after him.”

As I make my way home, I cannot help but feel a pang of sadness. The company, the routine, the faces—they’ve all earned a place in my heart. And Daniel’s face is like a stubborn sticker on a suitcase that refuses to peel off. I bet he’s already scrubbed me from his memory. Those flowers were clearly not meant for me. He’s back in the game, tossing his hat in the ring, and I’m just history now.

I wiggle in the backseat of my Uber and vow not to let the tears win.

But the moment I step through my apartment door, it’s like a dam breaks inside me. The tears come hot and fast. I sink to the floor.

I don’t know how long I sit there, but I wipe my face when the phone rings. It’s Amber.

“Chloe, how’s it going?”

“I did it, Amber. I handed in my resignation.”

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