From Duty To Desire

Chapter 7

Brittany shook her head, her mind made up. "I don't need his protection, Dora. I'm not going to give in to this. I'll talk to him when I get home........ He can't just control me like this".

"And what if he refuses to listen? What if he just gets angry and dismissive?",Dora gave a tiny smile "Brittany, be realistic. Ethan's not going to change his mind just because you talk to him".

"Well, I'm not going to back down. I'll make him understand that this is ridiculous, that I don't need bodyguards following me everywhere I go. I need my freedom ", she replied and turned to Dora" Have you heard anything about who's going to replace Brandon? She resigned so suddenly, I'm wondering how they're going to fill the position ".

Dora nodded" Actually, I heard that HR is already working on finding a replacement. They're hoping to have someone in place within the next few ", she said and added" They want someone who can hit the ground running and take over her responsibilities seamlessly ".

" That makes sense ", Brittany said." I'm sure it's a lot of work to find the right person. Do you know if they've started interviewing candidates yet? ".

" Yes, they've already started the interview process. I've heard that they're looking at a few internal candidates, but they're also considering external applicants. They want to make sure they find the best person for the job, regardless of whether they're already working here or not ".

" I hope they find someone good ", Brittany said." Brandon was really knowledgeable and helpful ".

" Yes, she was a great asset to the team ",Dora agreed." Well, I should get back to work. I have a few projects I need to finish up today ".

As the day wore on, Brittany's stomach began to rumble, reminding her that she had skipped breakfast in favor of meeting deadlines. She glanced at the clock on her computer screen and saw that it was already 2:30pm. She decided to treat herself to lunch at her favorite restaurant, Bistro Bliss, which was just a short walk from the office.

Bistro Bliss was a cozy french-inspired bistro with a warm and inviting atmosphere which makes Brittany feel like she's in a warm hug. She's a regular there, and the staff always greets her with a smile, making her feel like part of the family.

The menu is another reason reason she keeps coming back. Brittany is a foodie at heart, and she appreciates the creativity and care that goes into each dish. She's always trying new things, and the chef never fails to impress her. Her favorite dishes are the roasted beet salad and the wild salmon, which she orders every time.

But what really sets Bistro Bliss apart is the memories she's made there. She's had countless celebrated birthdays with friends mostly Dora, and even had a few business meetings over lunch. The restaurant has become a special place for her, filled with laughter, love and delicious food.

Brittany also appreciates the attention to detail and the exceptional service. The staffs remembers her name, her favorite dishes, and even her favorite wine. They make her feel seen and cared for, which keeps her coming back time and time again. For her, Bistro Bliss is more than just a restaurant - it's a second home, a place where she can relax, indulge, and create memories with the people she loves.

As Brittany stood up to leave, she stretched her arms overhead, arching her back and extending her fingers. She let out a slight yawn, revealing a hint of her bright teeth. She sauntered over to the door and as she reached the entrance, she noticed some people stationed outside her office door, their eyes fixed on her.

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It was her bodyguards who were standing at attention like statues. Brittany rolled her eyes good-naturedly and smiled at them.

"Uh, guys, I think I've got this one covered", she said, gesturing to the short distance between the office and the restaurant." I'm just going to grab a quick bite at Bistro Bliss. You can wait here, right? "

The taller of the two shook his head." Sorry, ma'am. Our instructions are to accompany you at all times. We can't let you go alone".

Brittany's eyes widened in surprise." But.......... but this is ridiculous! I'm just going to eat! What could possibly happen to me in a crowded restaurant? ".

"Ma'am, our orders are clear", the second bodyguard said.

" Orders? ", Brittany's anger boiled over." You're treating me like a prisoner!, I can't take this anymore! "She spun on her heel and stormed back into the office.

She slammed the door shut behind her and began furiously packing her bag." I can't believe this! I can't even have a moment to myself". She zipped up her bag and slung it over her shoulder, her eyes blazing with anger.

"I'm going home", she snapped, not bothering to look at the bodyguards. "And I don't want to be bothered"The taller bodyguard nodded. "Yes, ma'am. We'll take you home".

Brittany marched over to the black SUV parked at the curb, it's engine purring softly. She yanked open the door and climbed in, not waiting for the bodyguards to open it for her.

As they pulled away from the curb, Brittany crossed her arms over her chest, her eyes fixed on the passing scenery. She didn't speak a word to the bodyguards, her anger and frustration simmering just below the surface.

The drive home was silent and tense, the only sound that could be heard was the soft hum of the engine and the occasional crackle of the radio. Brittany stared out of the window, her mind racing with thoughts of rebellion and escape.

Finally, they pulled up to the building, and Brittany flung open the door before the bodyguards could even react. She burst through the front door, her eyes blazing with fury, "Amanda, where is Ethan?". She demanded, her voice loud.