DOUBLE TROUBLE: Dealing with my exes.

Chapter 1

AVA BROOKE

"It was a pleasure meeting you Ms. Brooke. All the files have been submitted and I am delighted to say that there appears to be no misconception. At this rate you can be part of our company from tomorrow only."

I proudly shake hands with Mr. Charles, The chief executive as well as once my first interviewer. A professional smile rests on my lips. "I will wait for the email Mr. Charles. I would be delighted to start soon." With a moderate nod of admire in the direction of him, I gracefully head toward the door, determined not to stumble and potentially embarrass myself in front of my future boss.

 "'Dear Dales Design," additionally recognized as "D3," is presently one of the fastest-growing trend fashion companies. Securing a job right here is a coveted aspiration for many students. When I heard they had been hiring from our college, I decided to give it a try. However, even in my wildest dreams, I by no means imagined that my insecure self would be accepted.

As I exited the restaurant where the meeting had taken place, a gust of wind blew over me, causing my hair to flutter round wildly. It appeared as a whole lot was once subsequently falling into place in accordance to my plans, and I was once determined no longer to dwell on the past.

Suddenly my phone was buzzing in my purse, causing a jolting sensation. I rummaged via my bag to locate it; however, it was in the worst position with a scratched display screen displaying my friend's name, Alexis. I tried tapping on the display to unlock it, however to no avail.

"Ah, this irritating piece of technology. You're actually at the top of the replacement list."

After numerous attempts, success was once ultimately achieved. Placing the smartphone in opposition to my ear, I heard my friend's voice eagerly asking, "Hey bestie, so are we moving out of this lousy apartment quickly or what?" She seemed thrilled to hear about my interview results, her excitement palpable in her voice.

"I've been dreaming about it, however I have not started out working yet. It will take some time for the cash to begin coming in," I chuckled wearily. "That means you did it. I always believed in you," Alexa's voice carried an air of pride, such as that of an Asian mom whose child just aced all their tests. It struck me as amusing.

"I might not be coming home tonight. We can watch that movie another time," I heard her say, and my mind raced with thoughts of her no longer returning. Suddenly it hit me. "Is it Chase again?" I asked, feeling a bit hurt that she was backing out of our planned movie night. This wasn't the first time this had happened.

"Uh... Ava, I promise this is the last time," her voice reached me, however I should have sworn I heard Chase beside her, telling her to hold up. My frustration escalated. "You said the same thing last time. I in no way asked you to leave him, however can you please quit canceling our plans because of him? It appears like he is more important," I said, feeling annoyed.

"Ava it is a new relation I want to have time with him. Stop being so focused on being single and find yourself a boyfriend," she said. My fists clenched as I bit my tongue. "Firstly, there is no one appropriate I ought to meet. Secondly, I do no longer prefer a boyfriend. I want to focus on my future. And besides, it's been a year, so it's no longer a new relationship anymore."

"Come on, don't be a spoil sport. I can organize a date or simply say you do not like anybody different than Jaxon," And this was it I bid a short farewell ending the call. "Just get off it; everybody loves getting on my nerves," I muttered to myself as I headed home for some rest.

I arrived at the dilapidated, torn old apartment building. My neighbor's gaze sent shivers down my spine as I fumbled with the rusty lock. He offered a smile, however I all of sudden shut the door in his face, immediately regretting my actions. Just then, a notification appeared on my phone.

Ms. Brooke,

We are extremely joyful to share that you can begin the following day at 9am. We are searching ahead to welcoming you to our company. We will attempt to make you sense at home, and we count on your contributions. You will acquire your ID tomorrow, formally making you a section of our organization family.

Warm regards,
Dear Dales Design

A sense of remedy washed over me as I examine the email. It was a pity no one was around to share in this moment. As I settled into mattress and set my alarms for the subsequent day, I was determined to eventually get the rest I craved.

At Night, (TIME LEAP)

In the midst of complete darkness, a boy stood motionless. As I drew closer, he abruptly jerked and turned around, his face obscured from view as he uttered words of anguish.

"Ava, are you kidding me? What did I do to deserve this breakup? Was this all a game to you?" the boy exclaimed, pushing me back gently with no strength. I gazed up at him, seeing the suffering in his eyes and the tears opening to fall. He looked shattered but he was angry at the same time.

Then it hit me. I had caused this pain. It was my doing. I reached out to him; however, he turned and ran. My legs betrayed me as I followed behind him but stumbled and fell to the ground.

I woke up abruptly, my mind straight away flooded with the recurring dream that has been plaguing me lately. I thought the dreams had stopped, however clearly, they haven't. Frustrated, I checked the time and noticed that my phone, which I lately found out was broken, hadn't even rung. How did it simply go silent on its own? It was already 7:30 am, and I was supposed to be up by 6 am.

I hurried via my morning routine, showering and getting ready, speeding through breakfast with the concern of being late on my first day weighing heavily on my mind. Before leaving, I cautiously stashed the key beneath the doormat, making sure it was once properly hidden. I knew Alexis would be arriving soon.

It took me about 1/2 an hour to stroll to the building, which wasn't too a long way from my apartment. It was now 8:55 am, and a sense of relief washed over me. I glanced at the bold letters spelling out the company's title – it felt surreal. Stepping inside, I made my way to the reception area.

"Hello, how can I help you today?" The receptionist greeted me formally. " Hey, I'm Ava Brooke," I replied, feeling fearful due to my introverted nature. Conversing with strangers usually felt daunting. How the hell did I not stutter in my interview? 

"I have already been briefed about you. Mr. Charles is not available at the moment, however there is another person right here who can aid you with your work. Please come with me," she stated in a reassuring tone, picking up on my nerves. I smiled back, feeling more relaxed, and observed her as she introduced herself.

"By the way I am Jenna. It's nice to meet you. I'm positive I'll be seeing a lot of you now, so relax. No one's going to steal your spot," she joked, chuckling to herself.

"Jenna, please convey the files from my table," a voice interrupted me from behind, sounding unusually familiar. I was once sure I had heard it before. "Of course, sir. I'll retrieve them. By the way, the new intern from Fashion Con University is here," Jenna stated as she beckoned me to follow her towards the source of the voice. I kept my gaze lowered, lost in my ideas about the place I had encountered this voice before. Jenna nudged me ahead as she continued.

"Meet Jaxon, Our project Manager. Even though he especially works in the production department, he will be overseeing your duties for the time being, as many factors fall beneath his preview." The name sounded eerily familiar as I glanced up, sensing a connection and at that moment I realized.

 Oh, well I am fucked up.

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