REKINDLED

THE UNEXPECTED RETURN

Lexi stepped into the sleek, glass-walled lobby of Walker & Co., her heart racing with a mix of excitement and nerves. It had been three years since she'd last set foot in this building, and the memories still lingered. She took a deep breath, smoothing her tailored blazer and straightening her shoulders.

The receptionist, a friendly woman with a warm smile, greeted Lexi. "Hi, can I help you?"

"Hi, I'm Alexandra Thompson. I'm here for the meeting with Mr. Walker," Lexi replied, her voice confident.

The receptionist's eyes widened slightly. "Ah, Ms. Thompson. Right this way, please."

Lexi followed her to the elevator, which whisked them up to the executive floor. As the doors slid open, Lexi's gaze landed on a familiar figure standing by the window, staring out at the city skyline.

Ethan Walker.

Her heart skipped a beat. She hadn't expected him to be here, especially not looking like he owned the place. Lexi's mind flashed back to their past, and she felt a flutter in her chest.

"Ethan," she said, her voice barely above a whisper.

He turned, his piercing blue eyes locking onto hers. For a moment, they just stared at each other, the air thick with unspoken emotions.

"Lexi," he said finally, his deep voice sending shivers down her spine. "Welcome back."

Lexi forced a smile, trying to play it cool despite the turmoil inside. "Thanks, Ethan. It's...good to see you."

The receptionist discreetly slipped away, leaving them alone.

"So, you're the new senior marketing manager," Ethan stated, his eyes never leaving hers.

"That's right," Lexi replied, her confidence growing. "I'm excited to get started."

Ethan nodded, his expression unreadable. "I'm looking forward to seeing what you can do, Lexi."

The tension between them was palpable, and Lexi knew she had to tread carefully. She'd come a long way since their past, and she wasn't about to let old feelings derail her.

"Shall we get started?" she asked, breaking the silence.

Ethan's gaze lingered on hers before he nodded. "Yes, let's."

As they walked toward the conference room, Lexi couldn't help but wonder what the future held for her at Walker & Co. – and what might happen between her and Ethan.