EPISODE001
1011 Words
MADISON'S POV
I was excited when I arrived at Hudson Interiors on Monday morning. The excitement from the news over the weekend had not subsided. We were recognised as one of Chicago's top two interior design firms. The years of arduous labour were finally bearing fruit. We succeeded.
Lauren smiled warmly and said, "Morning, Ms Madison," as I entered the office. She was consistently reliable and on time. She carried my work tote and handbag with ease." Carter left for school without incident. No complaints, no outbursts.
I exhaled a gentle sigh of relief. "Thank you, Lauren. You save lives. I stopped and hung my coat. "How is this week going for us?"
Lauren began to browse her tablet. "The Whitaker estate project is nearly finished. That is the approximately $6 million one. Additionally, three billionaires have expressed interest in hiring you to renovate their Arlington Heights homes.
Unintentionally, I smiled. I made an effort to maintain my humility, but hearing it aloud made a difference.
"It's not just me," I stated. "The credit should go to our entire team."
Lauren looked at me like she knew I was playing it down once more. "Madison, you are the one spearheading the idea. We simply follow your example.
Before entering my office, I quickly squeezed her hand in gratitude. Even though the day had just begun, I could already feel its excitement.
Lauren peeked back through the door after ten minutes.
"I apologise for interrupting. Someone has come to visit you. No appointment. Do you want me to reschedule them?
She said, "It's Noah Walker," just as I was ready to say yes.
My entire being froze. I looked at her, wondering if I had heard correctly.
Here, Noah?
It had been five years since I last saw or even thought of him. Since that one night, no. That foolish, memorable evening.
I hardly managed to maintain my composure as I said, "Send him in."
After giving a nod, Lauren vanished. I sat there with sweaty palms and a racing heart. My hands gripped the desk's edge tightly. I assured myself that I was alright. I wasn't.
The door then opened, and he entered.
Walker, Noah. taller than I had recalled. Still wearing a suit with ease. His piercing blue eyes were fixed on me.
"Madison."
I got up and shook his hand as steadily as I could. The air changed as soon as our skin touched.
"You appear even more stunning than I recall."
The heat shot up my face. I detested that this was still how my body responded to him.
"Hi, Noah. It has been a long time.
A glimmer of something gentle passed across his face as he nodded. "Too much time. I couldn't stop thinking about you. I should never have let you go after that night."
I stood up straight. Years have passed since then. We were two different individuals. It wouldn't have succeeded.
He observed me without arguing. I gestured towards the chair facing my desk.
"Take a seat. Let's discuss your purpose for being here.
At last he broke eye contact and sat down. "Right. Business."
He moved a file across the desk. With unsteady hands, I opened it.
"I'm constructing a house. A large one. Bayridge Avenue. Something sophisticated and distinctive. For it, I want the best team.
He continued by outlining timelines, specific requirements, and design goals. However, my thoughts strayed. His voice reminded me of everything, including how I felt that night, how his hands had known every part of me, and the heat of his breath.
Get out of it.
I made myself return my attention to the discussion.
"So, yes, I do want it to be Arlington Heights' crown jewel."
Our gazes met once more.
"You've come to the right place," I said slowly.
He grinned, but his eyes remained unreadable.
"Ms Madison, I'm glad to hear that Hudson Interiors will receive about $20 billion for the job if you accept.
I blinked. "With all due respect, that is excessive. Even wealthy clients shouldn't be overcharged, in my opinion.
He scowled. "I think it's reasonable for my vision."
I folded my arms and remarked, "You've been pretty vague on that vision." "Before agreeing to any number, much less one that high, I would need more information."
Like two boxers circling each other, we exchanged words back and forth. There was more to it than business. Anxiety. Untold history.
My phone then rang.
Everything fell when I looked at the screen. The school of Carter.
I muttered, "I need to take this," and moved away.
"During gym class, Carter passed out. They're rushing him to the hospital.
After that, I hardly heard anything.
"I must leave. My son"
Lauren showed up next to me, her face tense with worry.
"Go," she said softly. "We'll take care of things here. Do not be concerned.
Slowly, Noah got to his feet. "Your son?"
I gave him a glance. "Yes. He is five years old. Are you surprised by that?
His mouth opened, but he held back from speaking. simply gazed.
"Do you want a lift to the hospital?"
I wanted to refuse. I wanted to ignore him. For now, however, Carter came first.
I said, "Fine," and started to leave.
As I went by, Lauren squeezed my arm. "We've got this. Just pay attention to Carter.
There was silence between us in the car.
I said without glancing at him, "This doesn't change anything." " I own Carter. This project has nothing to do with my personal life.
He merely gave a nod. He didn't exert pressure. But regret? Something flickered in his eyes. Sadness? I wasn't certain.
He finally gave me a direct look as we pulled up to the hospital.
He whispered, "You don't have to say anything now." "Just leave. I'll be right here.
For a brief moment, I hesitated. After nodding, I exited.
He didn't follow. He didn't enquire.
He did nothing but wait.
And I didn't feel totally alone for the first time in a long time.
- Writer
