Chapter 36

I straighten out my plaid skirt with trembling hands and fumble to ensure all the buttons of my blouse are done before walking into the towering office building. Today is my first day at work, and I should be bubbling with excitement, but instead, a heavy weight presses on my chest. Over the weekend, I tried desperately to push aside the painful incident that happened the day of the engagement ceremony, but the hurt simmered just beneath the surface, threatening to spill over at any moment. I paste on a fake smile as I greet everyone I pass on my way to the elevator. I blow out a shaky breath, silently praying that my day will go smoothly, and I can avoid the searing pain of running into Alex. His betrayal was still raw and throbbing, and I wasn’t in the mood to be around him.

The elevator dings, signaling its arrival on my floor, and I step out, my heart pounding in my chest. The email I received for the job acceptance told me I would be working under Jeremy, and a flicker of