8. Early Goodbyes
EARLY GOODBYES
As the dawn breaks, I watch Reid pack up his things, his face filled with a mix of reluctance. As Reid zips up his bag, I can’t help but feel a pang of sadness. After the heated exchange of words last night, we both came to the agreement that it would be best for him to head back to school early.
He changed his ticket effortlessly. I have to return to work soon, so it’s not like we would have had much time together, anyway.
I yearn for some solitude, a chance to clear my head.
Yet, a part of me mourns the missed opportunity for Reid to spend more time with Liam.
If Reid’s heart isn’t truly present, he can’t genuinely be there for Liam.
It’s a hard truth to swallow, but one that is necessary for us all.
I reassure him I’ll be fine and send him off with a warm smile, masking the emptiness creeping into my heart. He’s off to chase his dreams, and I have my chase - deadlines and deliverables. The silence that follows his departure is deafening, yet, in a strange way, comforting.
It’s time for me to get back to my normalcy, but I can’t shake off the feeling of longing that latched onto me. I tell myself that some solitude would do me good, a chance to gather my scattered thoughts.
As I steer the car towards the airport, I steal glances at Reid, his eyes focused on the horizon, lost in his own world.
Liam, seated behind, oblivious of the poignant moment unfolding.
We bring the car to a halt, Reid and I. He opens the door, leaning in to press a kiss on Liam’s cheek, a sweet goodbye.
Swiftly, he rounds the car, retrieving his bag from the trunk.
I watch as he closes it, the finality of the sound echoing in my ears.
He strides over to me, his presence overwhelming.
Then he’s reaching for me, his hand firm on the back of my neck, reeling me in.
His kiss is searing, a wildfire that lights up every corner of my being.
“I love you,” he whispers against my lips, his words a soothing balm to my aching heart. “Together. Now and always.”
The promise in his voice sends a shiver down my spine, a silent vow sealed in this solemn moment. With that, he turns, his figure marching towards the airport, leaving behind an echo of his love.
After the goodbye at the airport, a sense of loss engulfs me, only to be shoved aside by the urgency of the ticking clock. I rush towards my mother’s place to drop Liam off. I can barely manage a rushed hug for Liam before darting off again, feeling the strain of our hurried goodbyes.
I reach the office just in time, each tick of the clock resonating with my racing heartbeat. As soon as I settle down at my desk, I see an email from Eric, my boss, beckoning me into his office. I take in a deep breath, gathering myself, and wondering what could be waiting for me there.
Stepping into Eric’s office, I’m instantly reminded of his penchant for minimalism.
The room is lined with sleek, black furniture, walls adorned with framed blueprints of some of our successful projects, and a single, oversized window providing a panoramic view of the city skyline.
His desk, a massive slab of polished mahogany, is immaculately arranged, with not a single document out of place.
“Close the door, please, Amelia,” he says, gesturing towards the chair opposite him.
I do as told, the click of the door shutting behind me echoing in the spacious room. Settling in the plush chair, I take a moment to admire the setting sun, its hues painting the city in shades of gold.
Eric glances up, a warm smile spreading across his face. “You look nice today, Amelia,” he compliments, his gaze sincere.
I can’t help but blush a little, a rush of warmth spreading across my cheeks. ‘Get a grip,’ I silently scold myself, forcing a composed smile on my face as I respond, “Thank you, Eric.”
No sooner does my blush fade, Eric delves into the matter at hand - our extensive project.
We’ve been tasked with the expansion and optimization of large-scale solar farms, a venture that involves harnessing solar power for electricity generation.
This is not just about electricity; it’s about sustainability, innovation, and the future.
Eric leans back in his chair, his fingers steepling in contemplation. “Amelia, this project isn’t just another job. It’s a chance to make a real difference. What are your thoughts?”
“I agree, Eric,” I respond, my voice steady. “It’s a unique opportunity to contribute to a meaningful cause. But it will not be easy. We’ll need to address a multitude of challenges, especially taking into consideration the scalability and cost-effectiveness of solar farms.”
Eric nods, gauging my response. “Indeed,” he murmurs. “We also need to strike a balance between maximizing energy production and minimizing environmental impact. We shouldn’t forget that our primary goal is sustainability.”
“Absolutely,” I concur, my mind already churning with ideas. “We need to ensure our design is efficient, but also adaptable to unique landscapes and weather conditions. Innovation will be key.”
Eric smiles at my enthusiasm, his eyes reflecting a similar spark. “That’s the spirit, Amelia,” he states, his voice imbued with a sense of determination. “You’re catching on quickly. I can see you going far in this company.”
Eric and I spend the better part of the morning mapping out our strategy for the big project.
We delve into every detail, every potential hiccup.
His focus is laser-sharp, his dedication unwavering.
By the time we agree on a tentative timeline, my stomach protests with a low rumble.
I glance at the clock and realize it’s already lunchtime.
“Do you want to grab lunch, Amelia?” Eric suggests, already gathering his things. I quickly shake my head, a polite smile on my lips.
“Thank you, Eric, but I already have plans,” I respond, rising from the chair.
Relief washes over me. I had sent Hazel an SOS text that very morning following Reid’s sudden departure, requesting an urgent lunch date. And as always, she was there for me.
“Just let me know where and when,” her text read, her unwavering support resonating in every word.
Stepping out of the office, I let out a sigh of relief.
The bustling city envelops me. It’s sounds a welcome distraction from my thoughts.
I navigate the busy streets, the familiar path to our usual spot - a quaint little restaurant tucked away in a corner.
The moment I step inside, I spot Hazel. She’s already seated at our usual table, her fiery red hair impossible to miss.
She sees me and waves energetically, a wide grin on her face.
“Right on time,” she calls out as I approach.
I slide into the seat across from her, setting my bag on the floor.
Her eyes are sparkling with mischief when she asks, “Do I have to beat Reid’s ass?”
Her question catches me off guard, triggering a laugh that comes out as a snort. The tension of the day seems to seep away with that single, unexpected comment.
I shake my head, still chuckling, “No, Hazel. That won’t be necessary.”
“Then tell me what put that troubling look in your eyes,” she says.
I let out a long sigh, meeting Hazel’s concerned gaze. “You remember Jada, right?” I begin, toying with the edges of my napkin.
I see Hazel’s eyebrows shoot up in surprise but she remains silent, a nod signaling me to continue.
“Reid’s been hanging out with her a lot lately... and he kept it from me,” I reveal, the words tasting bitter on my tongue.
Hazel’s eyes widen, but she quickly masks her surprise with a controlled expression.
“Oh, Amelia,” she says, reaching across the table to pat my hand.
“And it didn’t stop there,” I confess, my voice barely above a whisper. “He told me he’s been imagining his life without Liam and me.”
I feel my eyes well up, and I look away, trying to keep my emotions in check. Hazel is silent for a moment, processing the information.
“Amelia,” she begins, her voice calm but firm, “You need to remember that people sometimes say things they don’t mean when they’re stressed or overwhelmed.
I’m not defending Reid because he’s an ass, but I think you need to have a serious talk with him.
Remember, you deserve honesty and respect in this relationship. ”
“I guess, Hazel,” I start, my voice wavering a tad, “I just can’t shake this nagging doubt.
It’s not just about what Reid said, it’s about what it implies.
He’s been imagining a life without Liam and me...
Can you imagine how that feels? It’s as if he’s questioning if he wants this life, the life we’ve built together.
It terrifies me, Hazel. More than anything, it brings to surface these deep-rooted insecurities about whether I’m enough, whether our love is enough.
The thought of losing him, of him walking away from us... it’s just too much.”
“I’ve always known Reid’s a bit dim, but if he doesn’t see the incredible woman you are, then he’s even dumber than I thought,” Hazel says, her voice laced with a snarky edge.
She leans back against her chair, her gaze unwavering.
“You’re intelligent, successful, kind-hearted...
anyone would be lucky to have you in their life.
If Reid’s too blind to realize that, well, then he’s a bigger buffoon than I ever gave him credit for. ”
Her words hold a fierce determination, the support she offers unwavering.
She gives my hand a comforting squeeze, her facial expression a mirror of the strength she’s projecting onto me.
Just then, Amelia’s phone buzzes with a text message from Reid.
He’s letting her know he made it back to school safely.
Amelia doesn’t reply, not really feeling up to talking to him yet.
The waiter eventually comes over, his notepad at the ready.
“The usual chicken Caesar salad for me,” Hazel orders, her eyes sparkling with anticipation.
“And the grilled salmon, please,” I say, handing over the menu. As he nods and leaves, I turn back to Hazel, my curiosity piqued. “So, how are things with Benjamin?” I ask.
Hazel’s face immediately lights up, a radiant smile spreading across her face.
“Oh, Amelia,” she begins, her voice filled with joy. “Things have been wonderful. We took this cooking class together last weekend, and let me tell you, watching Benjamin try to knead dough was the most hilarious thing I’ve ever seen.”
She chuckles lightly at the memory, her eyes sparkling with mirth. “And just yesterday, he surprised me with tickets to the new art exhibit downtown. You know how much I love those.”
I can’t help but smile at her enthusiasm, my heart warming at her obvious happiness. I’ve known Hazel for years, and seeing her this happy... it’s contagious. We continue discussing Benjamin and their latest escapades until our food arrives, filling the table with enticing aromas.
As we finish our lunch, the aroma of delicious food still lingering in the air, Hazel and I agree to meet again on the weekend. We part ways with a warm hug, her fiery hair brushing against my cheek, her scent - a mix of vanilla and spice - comforting and familiar.
As I step back out into the bustling city, I feel a renewed sense of hope, her words echoing in my mind. Taking a deep breath, I head back towards the towering office building, ready to face the rest of the day.
Returning to the office, I’m met with a flurry of activity.
My boss Eric approaches me almost immediately, an urgent look in his eyes.
“Amelia, I need you to come with me to another facility. We have to inspect new parts and technology for the project,” he says, his tone brooking no argument.
I nod, grabbing my jacket and following him out to the car.
As we settle into the seats, the atmosphere tenses.
The thrum of the engine serves as a backdrop to our silence.
Eric’s concentration is palpable as he navigates through the city streets.
I attempt some small talk to ease the tension, but Eric only grunts in response, his mind clearly elsewhere.
As we leave the city behind, the urban landscape gradually transitions into sprawling fields and clusters of trees.
Eric clears his throat, breaking the silence. “So, Reid...”
He lets the word hang in the air. There’s a brief pause before I turn to him, my eyebrows raised in slight surprise.
“What about him?” I ask, trying to keep my voice steady.
Eric shifts uncomfortably in his seat before elaborating, “That’s your boyfriend and Liam’s father. I must admit, I was taken by surprise. You never mentioned him.”
I can’t help but laugh at this. “Eric, I don’t make it a habit to discuss my personal life with my boss,” I reply, trying to keep the atmosphere light. He chuckles at this, his eyes meeting mine.
“Amelia,” he starts, his voice soft, “I’d like to think of us more as friends.”
I nod, studying him. “Alright then, Eric. As friends,” I agree, a hint of a smile tugging at the corners of my mouth. “And as a friend, I should tell you that things with Reid are... complicated right now.”
There’s a pause, filled only by the low hum of the car engine. Eric finally speaks again, his voice careful.
“I won’t pry. But remember Amelia,” he says, glancing my way, “I’m here if you want to talk.”
Just then, the car slows to a stop outside a seemingly deserted warehouse, the last rays of the day casting long shadows. It’s time to get to work. His sincerity catches me off guard, a softening in his gaze that assures me he means it. I nod, appreciating the sentiment more than I can express.
“Thanks, Eric,” I say, my voice a mere whisper.
That moment of shared understanding lingers as we step out of the car, the warehouse looming large in front of us.
I shake off the lingering thoughts, shifting my focus to the task at hand.
The warehouse is a vast expanse, filled with the echo of our footsteps and the distant hum of machinery.
The air smells of metal and oil, a testament to the latent technological prowess housed within.
We navigate through rows of shelving, our footsteps punctuating the ceaseless hum of distant machines.
Eric takes the lead, his familiarity with the place clear in his confident strides.
Each piece of machinery we pass is more intricate than the last, the complexity of design hinting at the technological marvels they hold.
My gaze scans the surroundings, taking in the neatly organized components and machines.
Eric’s voice—steady and informative — fills the air as he points out various key aspects, his knowledge about the project reflected in his thorough explanations.
And so, we dive into the world of work, leaving personal matters at the warehouse gate.