EVA'S POVYears later, the memory still stung. But it also reminded me of the kindness Sophie had shown me, standing up to Livia when no one else would. And it reminded me of how far I had come since those dark days in high school. I was no longer the scared, timid girl hiding in the shadows. I had grown stronger, more resilient.But despite all that, part of me still felt that same insecurity, that same longing for recognition. And now, working at the same company with both Tristin and Livia, those old wounds were reopening, making me question if I could ever truly move past them. The memories crashed over me like relentless waves, each one more painful than the last. I hadn't realized how deeply they still hurt until now. Livia's cruelty, the helplessness, the humiliation—it all felt so fresh, so raw. As I lay on my couch, I became aware of the tears streaming down my face.I wiped my eyes, but the tears kept coming, fueled by the bitter recollections of high school. "Why did she h

EVA'S POVI woke up the next morning, determined to face the day with a positive outlook. After a quick breakfast, I headed to work, ready to dive into my tasks. The office buzzed with activity as usual, and I settled into my routine, tackling emails and organizing my schedule.Around mid-morning, I received an unexpected message from my manager requesting my presence in his office. Curious and slightly apprehensive, I made my way down the familiar corridors to his door. As I entered, I noticed a man standing beside him, tall and impeccably dressed, with a confident smile."Good morning, Eva," my manager greeted me warmly. "I'd like you to meet Aaron. He's from our partner company and will be collaborating with you on the upcoming project."Aaron extended his hand, his smile widening. "Nice to meet you, Eva. I've heard great things about your work."I shook his hand, taken aback by his charm and good looks. "Nice to meet you too, Aaron. I'm looking forward to working together."My man

EVA'S POVThe next few days at work were nothing short of amusing because it continued the same way. Ever since Aaron and I started working together on the new project, it seemed like he was the talk of the office. His good looks and friendly demeanor had every colleague and coworker practically drooling over him.I was at my desk, deep into reviewing some project documents, when my coworker, Jess, leaned over with a dreamy look on her face. "Did you see Aaron today? He looks like he walked straight out of a fashion magazine."I stifled a laugh. "Really, Jess? Is that all you ever think about?"She sighed dramatically. "You wouldn't understand, Eva. He's like the perfect guy—smart, handsome, and so charming!"I shook my head, amused. "I think you all are exaggerating. He's just a normal guy."Jess gasped, clutching her heart as if I had just insulted a deity. "Normal? Did you hit your head? Aaron is anything but normal. Haven't you noticed how everyone lights up when he's around?""Ma

EVA'S POV"Good morning, everyone," Tristin greeted, taking his seat at the head of the table. "Let's get started."As the meeting progressed, Aaron and I presented our updates, smoothly transitioning back and forth between points. We were in sync, and it showed. I could feel the energy in the room, especially from my female colleagues, who seemed to be watching Aaron more than paying attention to the presentation."Great job, Eva and Aaron," Tristin said, though his voice sounded a bit tighter than usual. "You've made impressive progress.""Thanks, Tristin," Aaron replied, beaming. "Eva's been an incredible partner on this."Sophie leaned over to Livia and whispered loudly enough for the whole room to hear, "Don't they make such a cute couple?"I felt my face heat up instantly, and I could sense Aaron glancing at me with a bemused expression. Meanwhile, Tristin's jaw tightened noticeably, and Livia's eyes narrowed."Uh, thanks, Sophie, but we're just coworkers," I said, trying to lau

TRISTIN'S POV"Oh, come on," she teased, rolling her eyes. "You can't tell me you didn't notice the chemistry.""Sophie, please," I said, pinching the bridge of my nose. "I have a lot of work to do.""Alright, alright," she said, holding up her hands in mock surrender. "But you know, they'd make a cute couple."I didn't dignify that with a response, but as she walked away, I couldn't help but think about what she said. Aaron and Eva... a cute couple. The thought made my stomach churn.The next day, I was heading to the cafeteria for a quick coffee break. I spotted Eva and Aaron sitting together, chatting and laughing. I felt a pang of something unpleasant—jealousy, I realized. It was stupid, but there it was."Mind if I join you?" I said, trying to keep my tone light as I approached their table.Eva looked up, surprised. "Sure, Tristin. Have a seat."Aaron gave me a friendly nod. "Hey, Tristin. How's it going?""Good, thanks," I replied, forcing a smile as I sat down. "What are you tw