"What got you smiling, Via?" Jessica teased when she noticed Via's mood after meeting with the CEO. "You noticed Mr. Nakamura's gorgeous looks? Ain't he dashing?" Via blushed as her eyes widened. "What are you saying?" "What?" Jessica giggled. "Mr. Nakamura's appearance is to die for! Everyone wants to be noticed by him since he is also very single!" "I don't know what you're talking about." Via shook her head as she laughed at her workmate’s teasing. "I was just doing my job." "Oh, come on, Via," Jessica said, nudging her playfully. "I saw the way you came out of his office. Your cheeks were pink, and you had that little sparkle in your eye." "You're imagining things," Via insisted, though she couldn't help the smile that tugged at her lips. "Sure, sure," Jessica said, rolling her eyes. "But just so you know, you're not alone. Every woman in this office has a crush on him, even some of the married ones. He’s like a real-life prince charming with those suits and that smoldering g
On Via's first day of work at SA Group, she woke up with a mix of nerves and excitement fluttering in her stomach. After getting the kids ready for school and making sure they were settled with Collin and Cassie, she set out for her new job with determination.As Via approached the sleek office building of SA Group, she was immediately struck by its modern architecture. The building towered above her, its glass facade reflecting the sunlight in dazzling patterns. The entrance was adorned with a polished marble floor, and the walls were decorated with elegant artwork, giving the impression of sophistication and professionalism.Stepping through the doors, Via was greeted by the sight of the bustling lobby. Employees in smart business attire hurried past her, their footsteps echoing against the marble floor. The air was filled with the soft hum of conversations and the ringing of the elevators.Taking a moment to compose herself, Via walked purposefully towards the receptionist desk. Th
“We’re all set here. Aren’t you going to be late for work?” Collin asked as soon as the kids were busy playing in the area that Collin had prepared for them. Via checked the time on her watch before she shook her head. “It’s still early but I’ll go now.” "Thanks for bringing them, Via. I owe you one," Collin said, quickly hugging Via. "Don't worry about it. I should be the one thankful because you’re going out of your way for the kids," Via replied, her voice gentle but firm. "Are you sure you'll be okay with them?" "We'll be fine," Collin assured her, ruffling Jaydee's hair and giving Kaydee a high-five. "You go on to work. I've got this covered." "Alright," Via said, bending down to hug the twins. "You two be good for Uncle Collin, okay? I'll see you after work." "Okay, Mommy," Jaydee and Kaydee chorused, their faces lighting up with smiles. Via straightened up and gave Collin one last grateful look. "Thanks again, Collin." "Anytime, Vi," he said, his eyes soft and understand
“I think you two should talk,” Collin butted in when he noticed the awkwardness between the two. “I’ll take the kids home so take your time talking. It’s been a while since you have met each other so you have a lot of catching up to do.” Though she was unsure if that was the right thing to do at the moment, Via nodded her head. She followed Troye, who had already walked his way towards Collin’s office's balcony. “It’s been a long time, Vi.” Troye said again with a smile. “How have you been?” “I’m good.” Via felt awkward. It had been years since the last time she saw him, but the emotions she had before she left were still there. She felt apologetic, and her heart was filled with guilt toward him. The two of them started catching up as Collin instructed them. Troye asked questions about the US, how she adjusted, and how she searched for jobs. In return, Via tried to ask Troye questions about his work and how he remained in touch with Collin after what happened between them. Their c
When Cassie arrived at Via's house, the sun had just begun to peek over the horizon, her usual bright smile in place. The kids, Jaydee and Kaydee, were already up, their energy infectious as they bounced around the living room. "Auntie Cassie! You're here!" Jaydee exclaimed, running to hug her. "Good morning, sunshine!" Cassie replied with a large smile as she lifted Jaydee into a tight hug. "Are you ready for another fun day?" "Yes! We have so many games planned," Kaydee said, his eyes sparkling excitedly. Hearing the kids welcome her best friend, Via emerged from the kitchen, a cup of coffee in hand. She smiled at the sight of her best friend and her children. "Thanks for coming over so early, Cassie." "No problem at all, Via. You know I love spending time with these munchkins," Cassie replied, setting Jaydee down and walking over to Via. "Are you ready for today?" Via took a deep breath and nodded. "I think so. It's just... there's a lot on my plate right now." Though it was
Jessica and Via exchanged excited glances as they made their way to the conference room for their first meeting as part of the special project team. The anticipation was palpable, and they couldn't help but feel a mix of nerves and excitement. This was a big step in their careers, and they were eager to prove themselves. As they entered the room, they saw the rest of the team already gathered: Larry, a seasoned project manager known for his strategic mind; Francis, a young and ambitious data analyst; and Carrie, a creative marketing expert with a flair for innovative campaigns. Raizen Nakamura stood at the head of the table, commanding attention. "Good morning, everyone," Raizen began, his voice calm and authoritative. "Congratulations on being selected for this special project team. I have high expectations, but I have no doubt that each of you will bring unique strengths to our initiatives." The team exchanged nods and smiles, the atmosphere already buzzing with a sense of camar
As the day drew close, Via packed up her things and headed to the parking lot, eager to get home and see her children. She approached her reliable old sedan, which had seen better days, and unlocked it. However, when she tried to start the engine, it sputtered and died. "Come on, not now," she muttered, trying again. The car made a few feeble attempts before falling silent. Via sighed, resting her head on the steering wheel in frustration. After a few more unsuccessful tries, she accepted defeat and grabbed her phone to inform Cassie that she would take a cab on her way home. As she waited for a taxi to pass, she stood by the entrance of the building, watching the last rays of the sun dip below the horizon. The city was alive with the evening bustle, and she couldn't help but feel a bit stranded and vulnerable. Just then, a sleek black car pulled up to the front of the building. The driver's side window rolled down, and Via was surprised to see Raizen Nakamura behind the wheel. "Ms
Via spent the next morning in a daze, her thoughts scattered between the upcoming day at work and the possibility of reuniting with her father. Collin's words from the previous night echoed in her mind. She was still unsure about bringing the children to meet their grandfather, but she couldn't shake the hope that things would turn out well. She arrived at the office earlier than usual, hoping to get a head start on the day's tasks. As she settled into her desk, she felt a mix of nerves and excitement. Today was the first official meeting of the special team, and she wanted to make a good impression. "Morning, Via." Jessica greeted her with a cheerful smile as she walked in. "Are you Ready for our big meeting?" "Morning, Jess. Yeah, I am," Via replied, managing a smile. "How about you?" "Definitely. I'm excited to see how we can all work together," Jessica said, setting her bag down. "Plus, it's a great opportunity to learn from Mr. Nakamura." The mention of Raizen brought back th