Chapter 4

Suzy and I have been friends since high school. We were like best friends since then, we had to hang out a lot after class, and rant about life with each other, share our lowest and happiest moments together. I guessed through time, the foundation of our friendship got so much stronger.

But Suzy’s life was so different from mine. Suzy has a completely happy family while I don’t have my parents with me. I only have my younger brother, Lucas, and my aunt. My parents died in a car accident when I was in elementary, and Lucas was still a baby. My aunt was kind enough to take care of us and give us the education we deserved. We’re like a middle class, unlike Suzy. They were rich, with a lot of cars and a huge house, and they traveled abroad more often, but I never did get jealous of the life Suzy had because I was contented with my life. I am really grateful, and I couldn’t ask for more.

Suzy’s family even offered to take care of my brother’s medication and hospital bills when he was very ill but I didn’t accept their offer. I didn’t want other people to think I was taking advantage of Suzy and I’s friendship. I am already thankful that they gave birth to a very loving and caring daughter who always looks after me as well. I treasure Suzy so much, she’s like a sister I never had.

Our friendship had encountered various storms and celebrated countless wins. From late-night study sessions to spontaneous adventures, we shared it all. Suzy had seen me at my lowest points and celebrated with me during my triumphs. Likewise, I had been there for her through the ups and downs of her life.

Despite our different backgrounds, we understood each other in a way that went beyond words. Suzy never made me feel less because of our differing circumstances. She treated me with the same warmth and care, regardless of our financial differences.

As the years passed, our friendship only grew stronger. We navigated through the challenges of college, supporting each other through the pressures of academics and personal growth. Even as we pursued different paths, our bond remained unbreakable.

Our relationship wasn’t defined by material things or social status. It was built on trust, loyalty, and the mutual understanding that we were there for each other, no matter what. Suzy’s presence in my life was a constant reminder that true friendship transcended external circumstances.

As I looked back on our journey, I felt a sense of gratitude. I was blessed to have a friend like Suzy by my side—a friend who stood by me, believed in me, and reminded me that I was worthy of love and support.

I went out of the taxi after being sentimental about Suzy and I’s friendship.

I rushed through the lobby, my mind preoccupied with a million thoughts. Meetings, tasks, and deadlines raced through my head like a whirlwind. I barely registered the familiar ding of the elevator, but my feet carried me toward it almost instinctively. I needed to reach my floor quickly; I couldn’t afford to waste a single minute.

As the doors began to slide shut, my heart pounded, urging me to hurry. I reached out, my fingers brushing the edge of the closing doors. With a gasp, I managed to slip inside just in time, my heart still racing from the close call.

And then, as if time had frozen, my gaze shifted to the person standing inside the elevator. Sir Marco.

The air seemed to evaporate from my lungs. My brain struggled to catch up with the reality before me. This wasn’t just any elevator ride; it was an elevator ride with my boss—the same guy who had been a stranger and a mistake.

A wave of memories rushed over me like a tidal wave. I saw us at that club, the pounding music, the dim lights, and the reckless laughter. I felt the weight of our first kiss, the warmth of his lips against mine. The sensation was intense as if it had just happened yesterday.

Now, here we were, side by side, but everything was different. I was no longer that carefree girl from the club; I was Margareth, the aspiring manager with responsibilities and a sick brother to look after.

Marco’s presence was suffocating, and the tension in the elevator was palpable. I could feel his gaze on me, but I couldn’t bring myself to meet his eyes. A million thoughts raced through my mind—should I say something? Should I act casually? Panic surged within me, and I could feel my cheeks burning.

And then, just as the awkwardness reached its peak, the elevator stopped, and the doors slid open. The rush of relief was overwhelming, and without even thinking, I stumbled out of the elevator, my heart pounding like a drum.

I didn’t glance back, my steps quickening as I put distance between us. I could almost feel Marco’s presence behind me, but I didn’t dare look. I needed to escape the awkwardness, the memories, and the tangled mess that was our past.

As I reached the safety of my office, I leaned against the door, taking deep breaths to steady myself. The encounter had rattled me more than I had expected. It was a stark reminder that some moments were better left in the past.

While I was working, some of my workmates were gathered and looking at something. So, with curiosity, I looked at what they were looking at and I saw how lavish Marco’s life was. He’s the epitome of luxury and with that look. No wonder many girls wanted his attention, but as my co-worker said. Marco was a serious and cold boss to them. He’s a very busy person but he still makes time to hang out with his friends. He prioritizes work and money.

I saw the pictures of his cars. He surely loves cars; that’s what I’ve observed. The success of others made me want to work harder, I don’t want to depend on someone’s success to get the things I wanted. I wanted to hustle, do it on my own, and have success on my way but in my current situation, I couldn’t focus on my own, I have someone to look after. My sick brother needs my support because I can’t risk losing him as well.