Chapter 144
Blair nodded but didn’t press. He had always been perceptive when it came to my moods, but he knew when to back off
“Good,” he said after a pause, his tone brightening. “Because I’ve got a stack of updates waiting for you. Think you’re ready to dive back in?”
I nodded, grateful for the change in focus. “Absolutely. Let’s get to it.”
Blair grinned, pulling out a folder and settling into his chair across from me. “Alright, first up, we need to talk about the supplier contracts. There’s been some back–and–forth with the legal team, but I think we’re almost there“.
“Oh, and Odette wants a status update on the new initiatives. She’s also suggesting we set up a meeting to align on the next steps with the Sunshine Pack.”
“Sunshine Pack,” I murmured, “What’s their involvement so far?”
“They’ve been surprisingly active,” Blair said, leaning forward. “From what I’ve heard, they’re handling some logistical operations and have been coordinating with Carlos. It streamlined a lot of processes. Odette’s impressed, but I figured you’d want to keep an eye
on it.”
I made a mental note to dig deeper. “Thanks, Blair. Let’s schedule that meeting in the next two days. It’ll give u
time to prepare.”
“Done,” he said, jotting it down. “Now, about the upcoming event… Have you seen the draft agenda? There are a couple of gaps we need to fill.”
I shook my head, reaching for the papers he slid across the desk. “Not yet. Let me take a look.”
As I scanned the document, Blair continued, his energy as infectious as ever. “You know, Doris, the office runs smoother when you’re around. It’s like everyone kicks into gear just sqeing you walk in.”
I chuckled, setting the papers aside for a moment. “Or they’re terrified I’ll catch them.
“Giving Thy My First Love For Secret Research: Second Chance at Happiness.
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lacking.”
“Maybe a little of both,” he admitted with a wink. “But seriously, it’s good to have you back. Now, let’s make sure we’re ready for the big day. No surprises this time.”
I smiled at his unwavering enthusiasm. “Agreed. Let’s make it happen.
For the next hour, we dove into work, reviewing plans, discussing strategies, and mapping
out priorities.
It felt good to be back in the rhythm, the steady pace of progress soothing the storm of thoughts swirling in my head.
The next day, as the sun hung high in the sky, I received a call from Faye while I was finishing up some work. I answered it with a sigh, eager for a distraction.
“Doris!” Faye’s cheerful voice rang through the phone. Tm hosting a pool party at my place this afternoon, and I’d love for you to come. It’ll be so much fun! Bring Cyrus along too. He’ll have a blast in the pool!”
“smiled at the thought of spending some time outside, away from the stresses of the past few weeks. “Sounds like a great idea, Faye. We’ll be there.”
After hanging up, I looked over at Cyrus, who was playing on the floor with his toy cars. His wide eyes met mine, and a bright grin spread across his face. “Pool party?” he asked excitedly.
“Yep,” I said, “We’re going to a pool party, buddy. Let’s get you ready!”
I quickly gathered my things, preparing for the event. It had been a while since I’d allowed myself to enjoy a social gathering, especially with everything happening with Carlos and the confusion surrounding Odette. But Faye’s invitation was the perfect opportunity for a
change of pace.
dressed in a simple but comfortable swimsuit, choosing a blue one piece that highlighted my figure without feeling too revealing. I pulled a light sundress over it and made sure to pack sunscreen and towels for both Cyrus and myself.
Shapter 4
Cyrus, in his usual enthusiastic manner, couldn’t wait to change into his little swim trunks, I helped him get ready, carefully making sure he had his floaties on his arms. He grinned as I did so. “I’m gonna swim like a fish, Mama!”
I chuckled, brushing a lock of hair from his forehead. “You sure will, sweetie.”
Faye’s place was a luxurious suburban mansion with a pool that looked like it belonged to a five–star resort. As I walked up to the gate, I could already hear laughter and splashes coming from inside.
The scent of sunscreen and barbecue filled the air, mingling with the sounds of upbeat music playing softly in the background.
I was greeted at the door by Faye herself, looking radiant in a vibrant floral bikini and oversized sunglasses. “Doris, you made it!” she exclaimed, giving me a warm hug. “Cyrus, you’re going to love this pool! There’s even a slide!”
Cyrus’s eyes lit up at the mention of the slide, and I couldn’t help but smile at how easily he made friends with everyone. I could tell he was already plotting his first run down the slide.
As we entered the backyard, I saw a few familiar faces from work, Blair, a few of Faye’s friends, and then I spotted her: Odette.
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