From secretary to Lovers

CHAPTER 12

Isabella's pov

The moment I stepped out of Black Enterprises, the weight of formality lifted off my shoulders. I glanced at my watch – just enough time to rush to the hospital before visiting hours are over. The thought of seeing her, even for a short while, always gave me a little jolt of energy.

The sterile scent of the hospital hit me as I walked through the automatic doors. It was a familiar smell now, a constant backdrop to our lives. I hurried down the hallway, past nurses bustling with charts and the hushed whispers of worried families. Finally, I reached Mom's room.

She was sitting up in bed, her frail hands resting on the crisp white sheets. A smile lit up her face when she saw me. "Isabella, my dear! You made it."

"Of course, Mom. I promised," I said, placing a gentle kiss on her forehead. I pulled up a chair beside her bed and took her hand in mine. Her skin felt thin and delicate, a stark reminder of how much she had been through.

"How was your day, *mija*?" she asked, her voice a little raspy.

I took a deep breath. "It was… eventful," I started, choosing my words carefully. I knew Mom worried about me, and I didn't want to burden her with the full details of the office drama.

"Mr. Black was a bit tense this morning," I began, carefully omitting the part about being late. "He had a big meeting scheduled, and things seemed a little stressful. I just tried to keep out of the way and make sure he had everything he needed."

Mom squeezed my hand. "He works you hard, that man."

"He does," I admitted with a small smile. "But he's fair. And I'm learning a lot."

I continued, "Clara came by too, she's so cheerful, it always brightens up the office"

I paused, thinking about Mr. Black's failed deal. "He had a meeting over lunch that didn't go well. He seemed upset afterwards. I hope everything is okay."

Mom sighed softly. "Business is like that, *mija*. Ups and downs. What matters is how you handle the downs."

I nodded, taking her words to heart. "That's what I try to do, Mom. Just keep my head down and do my best."

I didn't tell her about the abrupt departure from the restaurant or the slamming of the hand on the table. Some things were better left unsaid. I wanted to paint a picture of competence and control, not chaos.

"And how are you feeling today, Mom?" I asked, changing the subject.

Her smile widened. "Better, now that you're here. I had a good nap earlier, and the doctor said my blood pressure is stable."

We spent the next few minutes talking about everything and nothing. I told her about the funny things my friends at work had said, and she reminisced about her childhood in Mexico. It was a simple conversation, but it filled my heart with warmth.

As I prepared to leave, Mom took my hand again. "Isabella," she said, her voice serious. "You are a strong, intelligent woman. Don't let anyone take advantage of you. And don't let work consume you. Remember to take care of yourself."

"I will, Mom," I promised, tears welling up in my eyes. "I love you."

"I love you too, mija. Now go, and make sure Mr. Black doesn't work you too hard."

I smiled, wiping away the tears.As I stepped out of the hospital and into the cool evening air, the city lights twinkled like a million tiny stars. The weight of the day, both at the office and at the hospital, settled upon me, and I longed for nothing more than a hot shower and a quiet night in. However, as I unlocked my apartment door, my phone buzzed in my purse. It was Emily.

"Isabella! Girl, where have you been? My friend Jane and I are at The Blue Moon. Come join us!" Her voice was bubbly and infectious, as always.

I hesitated. "Oh, Em, I don't know. I'm pretty tired."

"Nonsense! You need to unwind. I haven't seen you in ages. Come on, just one drink. Please?" Emily's powers of persuasion were legendary.

I sighed. "Alright, alright. One drink. But I can't stay out late. I have to be up early for work."

"Yay! That's all I ask. See you in twenty!" Emily hung up before I could change my mind.

I quickly changed into a comfortable pair of jeans and a simple blouse, applied a touch of makeup, and headed out the door. The Blue Moon was a cozy little bar a few blocks from my apartment.

Emily and Jane were already there when I arrived, perched on stools at the bar, laughing and chatting. Emily, with her fiery red hair and infectious energy, spotted me immediately and waved me over. Jane was calm and she greeted me with a warm smile.

"Isabella! You made it!" Emily exclaimed, pulling me into a hug.

"I almost didn't," I admitted, "but I couldn't resist your charm."

Emily introduced her friend Jane and we spent the next few hours catching up, laughing, and sharing stories. Emily was in the midst of planning a trip to Europe, and Jane was juggling a demanding new job with her volunteer work at the local animal shelter. I listened intently, happy to be surrounded by their energy and support.

As promised, I only had one drink, but the company was enough to lift my spirits and chase away the lingering stress of the day. By the time I got home, I felt lighter, more relaxed, and ready for a good night's sleep.

Unfortunately, that's not what I got. I tossed and turned for hours, my mind racing with thoughts of work, my mom, and everything in between.