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I shake my head, unable to comprehend the depth of Jonathan's twisted obsession. "Victoria is not responsible for your pain, Jonathan. We can't let our personal grievances cloud our judgment. Buddy, you’ve got to move on."
A sly smile creeps across Jonathan's face as he says, "Or perhaps, Stephen, you're just afraid. Afraid to embrace your true desires. But mark my words, if you don't take this opportunity, you'll regret it."
His words hang in the air, an insidious attempt threaten and manipulate me. But I refuse to succumb to his emotional blackmail. I know who I am, and I won't compromise my principles for his twisted agenda. Such a pity, that after all we’ve been through, he’s turned into someone I barely recognize.
I rise from my seat, my voice firm and unwavering. "I won't do it, Jonathan. I won't. If you choose to seek revenge, that's your decision. But don't drag me into this mess. And don’t you fucking dare hurt Chloe."
And with that, I turn around and leave his office before I do something that I will regret later on. Like punching my best friend in the throat.
Later that day, Rosie's presence in my office is a welcome distraction from the lingering thoughts of Jonathan's malicious proposal.
"Stephen, I read Chloe's piece on the workers in Indonesia," Rosie begins, her tone filled with genuine admiration. "It's a remarkable piece of writing. She captured the essence of their struggles by highlighting the interviews with the workers themselves. A remarkably intelligent decision on her part, I must say. Now it’s the workers—and not us—speaking out against the company."
A small smile tugs at the corners of my lips, pride swelling within me for Chloe's accomplishments. It's a bittersweet feeling, knowing that her talent shines bright even as I grapple with the turmoil within myself.
"She also mentioned your contributions in gathering information from the workers," Rosie continues, her voice laced with curiosity. "It seems like you two have developed a strong working relationship."
Her words strike a chord within me, and I pause for a moment, grappling with their implications. The truth is undeniable—I feel a deep connection with Chloe, one that transcends mere professional collaboration. But where does it lead us? Can I allow myself to really explore these feelings?
I take a moment to collect my thoughts, my gaze fixed on a distant point beyond Rosie. Should I cut all personal ties with Chloe to protect her and myself from any fallout at the workplace?
But as I reflect on our time together on the island, the moments of vulnerability and connection, I realize that severing those ties won't erase the impact of our shared experiences. The emotions we've awakened in each other cannot be easily dismissed or ignored And I sure as hell can’t get the taste of her out of my mouth.
"I . . . I'm aware of the connection we've developed," I respond, my voice tinged with apprehension. "But it's complicated, Rosie. We find ourselves caught in the middle of something much larger than us."
Rosie regards me with a knowing expression, her eyes filled with empathy. "Stephen, I understand. These things happen, sometimes. But remember, in this line of work, we gotta be careful who we mingle with, if you catch my drift."
Her words strike a chord within me, a reminder of the delicate balance I must strive to maintain. I owe it to Chloe and to myself to proceed with caution. Our connection may be undeniable, but we must tread carefully to protect ourselves.
I straighten my back and meet Rosie's gaze. "Thank you, Rosie. I appreciate your perspective. I'll take your words to heart and ensure that things remain impartial at Eagle Eye."
After Rosie leaves my office, I find myself alone with my thoughts once again. I realize that while cutting all personal ties may seem like the logical choice, it may not be the only path forward.
But just then, my phone rings, interrupting my thoughts. Tiffany's name flashes on the screen, and I feel a pang of apprehension. Has Chloe told Tiffany about our complicated situation? Is my sister calling to seek answers?
I pick up the phone, my voice betraying a hint of uncertainty. "Tiffany, what's going on?"
The line falls silent for a moment, and I can hear the anger in Tiffany's voice building up. "Stephen", she finally roars, "What are you doing?! Chloe's been different with me lately, avoiding me like I'm invisible, canceling things between us left and right. I know what's going on between the two of you! How could you do this? You're 18 years older than her! Have you lost your damn mind?!"
Chloe's words ripped through me like a tsunami, crashing against the walls I had erected to protect my feelings. A wave of guilt coursed through me as I realized Chloe was no longer speaking to Tiffany the way she used to. And guilt for not noticing sooner that Chloe had been slowly building walls around herself.
"I . . . Fuck, I’m Sorry Tiff, it's complicated," I stumble, trying to find the right words to convey everything that’s happened. "Chloe and I . . . there's something between us, but we're trying to navigate it while keeping it professional."
Tiffany's voice hardens, her tone sharp with warning. "Stephen, be careful here. You know what you're capable of, the damage you can do when it comes to relationships. I've watched you break hearts before and I won't let Chloe be another one. If there's something between you two, then tell her the truth and don't toy with her feelings."
Her warning reminds me of the responsibility I bear in handling Chloe's feelings with care. Tiffany's concern for her best friend mirrors the unease I feel within myself.
"I understand." I reply, my voice filled with sincerity. "Chloe means a lot to me, and I would never hurt her. But we're both aware of the complexities we face, and we're being cautious for now."
Tiffany's voice softens, reflecting a mix of worry and understanding. "Just remember, Stephen, she's been through a lot. She deserves your honesty.”
Her words cut through the haze of confusion and doubt, grounding me in the reality of the situation. Tiffany's plea is a gentle reminder of the fragility of our connection and the importance of handling it with the utmost care.
"I hear you, Tiff," I assure her. "I'll do my best to be respectful. She deserves that. And more."
With a deep breath, I end the call and lean back in my chair, a mix of emotions swirling within me. The weight of Tiffany's words lingers, reminding me of the responsibility I bear in preserving Chloe's trust and protecting her heart.
I step out of my office, my sister’s words still fresh in my mind, when I notice Chloe in the conference room, immersed in her work. It's late, and I can't help but feel a twinge of concern for her well-being. Suppressing the internal struggle I'm facing, I decide to check on her.
