The Love Song (GXG)

Part two - Chapter 14

Clara's POV

I stood beside the large glass wall of my office, gazing down at the bustling city below, as I did every morning. However, today felt different, as I was filled with a sense of hope for a better future between Ayleen and me. Even though there was still much to fix between us, we were making progress and spending time together, which was a good sign.

Yet, I couldn't help but feel anxious about the looming conversation I needed to have with Ayleen. How could I explain what happened that day? Would she even believe me? The thought of her disappointment and hurt made me hesitant to approach her, as I didn't want to cause her any more pain. It was as if I had stabbed her in the heart with a dagger, and the memory of that look on her face made my stomach twist in agony.

Despite my apprehension, I knew I couldn't continue to let her believe I had cheated on her. I wondered if it would be easier to just accept the title of a cheater and move on to avoid further conflict, but deep down, I knew that would be betraying our relationship.

I continued staring down at the people below, lost in thought until I heard my cousin Marcus's voice behind me, which instantly filled me with anger. Of all the things I didn't need this morning, his annoying presence topped the list. I couldn't help but think that if he wasn't my cousin, I would have given him an earful and sent him packing out on to the streets where he belonged.

Without turning my head to face him, I replied sharply, "Marcus, why aren't you in your office doing something productive instead of bothering me?"

"Just checking in on you, Clara. It must be tough seeing the love of your life despising you," he taunted. Every fiber of my being wanted to turn around and punch him, but I knew better. Despite his words, Ayleen didn't despise me; I wasn't about to give him the satisfaction of knowing that. Ayleen and I were going through a sensitive time, and our situation was ours alone to resolve. No one else needed to know our business, especially not Marcus.

"Marcus, the last time you closed any of your cases was 18 months ago. My chair is contributing more to this office than you are. I've already asked Sofia to start interviewing new associates, and if you don't begin to show actual progress with your work, I'll have to let you go," I stated firmly, my eyes fixed forward.

"Don't be petty just because Ayleen is giving you the cold shoulder. You may not realize it, but I contribute a lot to this office. In fact, I'll even train the new hire for you," he said with arrogance, fully aware that I only kept him around because of my aunt and mother.

"I don't want you to train anyone. I don't want them to turn out like you," I said with a stern tone as I grabbed my chair and gestured for him to leave.

I was in a bind - cases were piling up and I desperately needed help in the firm. The problem was, I couldn't just bring in anyone. They would need substantial training to handle cases with the professionalism and high level of standards that I uphold in my law firm. My reputation was on the line, and it was stressful to even contemplate the idea of hiring someone new.

Previously, I didn't mind taking on all the work myself to keep my mind off of Ayleen. However, now I needed to work less and focus more on her. I needed help - and fast. With a sense of urgency, I dialed 0 on my phone to summon my assistant, Sofia. She knocked on my door within seconds.

" Have you managed to do what we talked about earlier?" I asked her in a calm tone.

"Yes, I have reviewed all the CVs that we received and I have shortlisted three candidates who are highly experienced and qualified for the position you are looking for," she said while handing me the summarized list of three resumes.

Feeling anxious, I urged her to schedule an interview with them for the same day. "Let's get this over with," She nodded in agreement and headed out to make the necessary arrangements.