Chapter 26

I wake up with Lucky sleeping, curled up in my arms. I get out of bed, open my wardrobe doors, and wear the first dress I pull out. It’s a dark purple, swing-style dress, where the skirt flares out if I spin around. I buckle a wide, black belt around my small waist, grab a cardigan, and put on some black heels.

Looking at the clock, I grab my handbag, run downstairs, out the door, and to the bus stop.

Sitting on the bus, I contemplate what I’m going to tell Ace. In the building, I’m kindly greeted by most staff.

Waiting in the elevator, I become more and more nervous, knowing I’m about to face Ace.

I expected him to have been here earlier than usual, and I am right; his office door is already open.

Going in, I don’t look at him, in case he is angry.

‘Good morning, Mr Brightly,’ I say, sitting down at my desk, opening my laptop, and working. The silence is deafening, and his eyes are on me.

Sighing, I stop what I’m doing, and gaze over at him. He looks terrible. He has bags under his e