23
New York, Mia
Back at work, I found myself seated in my office with a stunning view of Times Square through the large window. The bustling energy of the city outside was a stark contrast to the focused and composed atmosphere of my workspace. Today was an important day, with two new clients scheduled, but it was the thought of seeing my regular client, Sophia, that added a touch of excitement to the day.
As I delved into my work, the pleasant aroma of Bare Vanilla perfume wafted through the air, instantly recognizable. I couldn’t help but smile, knowing exactly who it was. I turned around to find a radiant Sophia standing at the doorway, her eyes sparkling with joy. Her honeymoon had evidently been a delightful experience.
“Miaaaa,” she squealed with enthusiasm as she rushed toward me and enveloped me in a warm hug. “Ughh, I’ve missed you so much.”
“I’ve missed you too,” I replied, returning her embrace. Sophia had always been one of my favorite clients, not just for her vibrant personality but also for the genuine connection we shared.
She pulled away slightly, her eyes filled with curiosity and excitement. “I’ve heard about it all while I was on my honeymoon,” she said, her eagerness evident. “Finish up, and then we will talk.”
I nodded at her, understanding the need to tend to my current client’s needs before diving into a personal conversation. As Sophia settled into her favorite spot on the sofa in the corner of my office, I returned to assist my second client.
Twenty minutes later, I concluded the session with my second client and called Sophia back into my office. She entered with a smile that could light up a room, clearly eager to catch up.
“Let’s start with you being pregnant with my brother-in-law,” Sophia began, her eyes dancing with excitement as she spoke. “We will be sisters!”
I couldn’t help but laugh at her enthusiasm and shook my head in response. “Yeah, I don’t think so,” I teased playfully.
Sophia raised an eyebrow, her expression curious. “What do you mean?” she inquired, her curiosity piqued.
I took a deep breath, realizing it was time to fill Sophia in about everything that had transpired in her absence. With a heavy heart, I began recounting the challenges, scandals, and uncertainties that had unfolded since her departure.
As I spoke, Sophia’s face transformed from one of excitement to one of concern and empathy. She listened attentively, absorbing every detail of the trials and tribulations that had become an integral part of my life.
When I finished sharing my story, Sophia stood up and rushed toward me, wrapping me in a heartfelt hug. Her embrace conveyed a deep sense of support and understanding that I desperately needed.
“You’re so strong,” she whispered in my ear, her voice filled with admiration and affection. “I can’t believe you’ve been through all this, and you’re still standing strong.”
I blinked back tears, touched by Sophia’s words.
“Thanks, Soph, things have been a roller coaster around here,” I admitted with a sigh, acknowledging the tumultuous journey I had been on lately.
Sophia reached into her bag and pulled out something that instantly caught my attention donuts, my absolute favorite snacks. My mouth watered just looking at them.
“For you, mama,” Sophia said, handing me the delectable treats.
“They look so delicious,” I exclaimed, my excitement evident. Freshly baked donuts had a way of making any day better.
“Freshly baked by yours truly,” Sophia replied with a proud smile.
I couldn’t help but feel touched by her gesture. Sophia was not only my favorite client but also a talented baker with her own bakery shop in New York. Her donuts and pancakes were legendary, and I could easily devour a whole box of her delicious creations.
As I reached out to take one of the donuts, my gratitude poured out. “Thank you,” I said sincerely, appreciating the comfort of familiar and beloved treats in the midst of chaos.
Sophia and I chatted as we indulged in the mouthwatering donuts, temporarily setting aside the weight of the world. Her presence brought a sense of normalcy to my otherwise turbulent life, and I cherished every moment we spent together.
Just as we were engrossed in our conversation and the delightful donuts, a soft knock on the door interrupted our moment of respite.
“Come in,” I called, curious about the unexpected visitor.
The door opened, revealing the front desk lady holding a bouquet of pristine white roses. I frowned, wondering who could have sent me such an elegant and unexpected gift.
“This is for you, Miss Anderson,” the front desk lady announced as she placed the bouquet on my table.Nôvel(D)ra/ma.Org exclusive © material.
Sophia raised an eyebrow in amusement, her curiosity piqued. “Mmmh, secret admirer? Or Sebastian?” she speculated, her playful tone laced with humor.
I examined the bouquet, puzzled by the choice of white roses. “Kind of weird, right?” I mused, “Don’t you give those to someone who’s…well, dead?”
Sophia chuckled at my observation. “There you say something,” she agreed, her interest growing. “What’s written on the card?”
I reached for the envelope that sat atop the bouquet, torn between curiosity and trepidation. With Sophia’s encouragement, I carefully opened the envelope and retrieved the card.
As I read the words on the card, both our eyes widened in shock, and I could feel goosebumps tingling over my entire body. The message on the card sent a shiver down my spine, and I felt an unsettling sense of dread wash over me.
Get rid of that baby or die with it x