*Declan*"We've contacted Epic Buzz's management, but there's been no response," Janet said as she walked into the dressing room.I turned my back to the mirror, securing my tie, "Did you contact Miranda? Tell her what I told you to?""She didn't pick up," she replied, the frustration evident in her tone."What about our lawyers, what options do we have?" I asked, hoping for a solution."We can sue, but the best option would be to settle this out of the media. They're still trying to get a hold of Miranda."I cursed under my breath, but smiled at Janet, determined to maintain a professional standpoint, "Keep trying. We have to do everything we can to stop this. Have you informed my parents?""Yes, they're both here."I nodded at her, indicating she could leave. I chuckled bitterly the moment she left the dressing room, thinking back to everything that led to this moment. Today was my inauguration. I was supposed to have the woman I loved on my arm, but I couldn't stomach the si

I sat in front of my laptop grimly, mentally preparing myself for the conversation. There was no pressure, but I knew I'd be expected to smile and have a sense of humor. However, I'd lost that part of myself.My life had become gloomy, monotonous. I woke up, hung out with my parents, and helped my mom out at her shop. I avoided all my friends and made a conscious effort to stay off social media. It definitely wasn't easy because all I wanted to do was see his face, even if it was just once. But I had to recognize that in order to heal, to move on, that I needed the space.That was why this was so hard. I hadn't spoken to anyone apart from my parents in months. Social interaction was no longer my thing.I rubbed my arm – a habit I had developed after that night – wondering how to handle this. The screen flickered to life; bright dark eyes met mine with an overly enthusiastic smile."Hi, Tiger."I flinched at the old nickname. I hadn't heard it in months. It brought back memories, s

*Leah*I stepped out of the glass doors of the sleek, modern company building, and a cool breeze brushed against my face, sending a shiver down my spine. I wrapped my arms around my torso, taking in a deep breath of fresh air, the scent of newly brewed coffee from a nearby café wafting towards me.There was a painful pang in my chest. I had spent a considerable amount of time at another coffee shop with someone special. I wouldn't dwell on that; it was all in the past now.What I should focus on is my new job. After I quit my job at Epic Buzz, I felt lost and aimless, unsure of what direction my life was heading. Miranda had threatened to crush my career with her mere fingers, so I had been scared to apply for anything at all.But now, after a successful meeting with my new boss, I was on my way to becoming a travel blogger. The position offered me flexibility, and there was no reason for me to stab someone I loved in the back.I made my way down the busy city street, my mind alre

*Leah*I stood outside the grand, imposing black door towering over me like a dark sentinel. My heart raced as I contemplated the impending conversation that would change everything. I was dreading it. I took a deep breath, inhaling the sweet smell of spring blossoms, hoping it would calm down my raging nerves. Steeling myself, I stepped forward, reaching for the metal knocker.I hesitated, wondering if I should turn back. But I knew it was too late now. I had to face him, no matter how hard it was. Summoning all my courage, I grasped the knocker and tapped it against the door.Moments later, I heard the sound of footsteps approaching, and I took a step back, anticipating his appearance. The door swung open, and there he was. Declan Samuelson, standing under the doorframe, dressed in black slacks and a simple sweatshirt. My heart skipped a beat as I met his gaze, unable to read the expression on his face.He said something to me, but my mind was too preoccupied to register it. I n

*Leah*A month later...When it comes to living a fulfilling life, there is nothing quite like indulging in something that you truly love. It brings a sense of joy and contentment that is simply unparalleled. However, the true magic lies in being able to enjoy your passion in an environment that is warm, welcoming and accepting. Whether you are with that special someone or flying solo, there is a unique kind of peace that comes with knowing that you are exactly where you are meant to be.You find peace in your surroundings, in the little things, and you find yourself smiling all the time.Yes, there were times when I missed him, so much that it hurt sometimes, but I was okay with that. Distance makes the heart grow fonder after all. Right now, I was exactly where I was meant to be. In a loving and accepting environment, doing something that brought me pure joy. And that is what life is all about.Of course, getting to this point can be a long and winding journey, full of twists an