TANGLED IN HIM

Chapter Four

In the city............

Seraphina's POV

I yawned, feeling the weight of sleep still clinging to me. My eyes darted towards the clock. Panic set in—I was running late. I leaped out of bed and dashed to the bathroom.

Last night was a battle of wills. I had walked into the house late because we had both refused to back down on who would go inside first. Eventually, he relented when he saw that I wouldn't go inside before him, promising to call me before I left for my trip.

I recalled his words, how he couldn't wait to claim me as his, and I felt a blush creep onto my cheeks at the thought. I seriously can't wait either for this trip to be over, to spend enough time with him, and have him all to myself. Maybe we can finally do it as well, you know, I mumbled to myself and winked. I felt my cheeks flush, and I smiled at my silliness. When did I become this goofy? Sophie has eventually influenced her silliness on me.

I remembered time was slipping away, so I quickly rushed through my shower, stepped out of the bathroom, and walked towards the closet room to get dressed. I chose black palazzo pants and a sky-blue off-shoulder top. After putting on my outfit, I settled into the chair to do my hair.

I gathered my long blonde hair into a ponytail, letting a few curls frame my face. A quick swipe of lip gloss, and I was almost ready. I opened my travel box and saw that Sophie had packed my clothes. "What a sweetheart!" I muttered. It was as if she knew I wouldn't be back early from Matthew's place.

I glanced at the clock again. I was even later now. I grabbed my report files and important documents, stuffing them into my black bag.

I picked up my phone from the nightstand and noticed tons of missed calls from the company, my team leader, and co-workers. A pang hit me when I didn't see any from Matthew.

I picked up my big, glittering ice ring and slipped it on my finger. I remembered Matthew's words when he gave it to me. The size will get people's attention, a clear sign that you are taken and that you belong to me. The blush returned, but then worry began to creep in. He promised to call before I left for the trip. Maybe he is busy. I reassured myself he would reach out when he had a moment.

I slipped into my black heels, grabbed my ID card, and stepped out of the house, ready for whatever awaited me.

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After a long drive, I finally pulled up to Wanderlust Adventures, my workplace. I paid the cab driver and grabbed my travel box. As I approached the large building, I scanned my ID on the machine screen. A green light flashed, and a mechanical voice announced, "Clearance granted." The door slid open, and I stepped inside.

I headed to the elevator and pressed the button for the 10th floor. The elevator whirred to life, ascending steadily. When it stopped, I stepped out, dragging my heavy box behind me, and continued walking.

As I approached the large glass entrance, I pushed it open and immediately, I was met with the furious face of my team leader. Her brows were furrowed with anger. "Seraphina, I've been calling you for ages! Where did you keep your phone?" she snapped.

"I'm really sorry," I replied. She was clearly frustrated.

"Other teams are waiting for us. Let's go," she said, turning on her heel. We headed back to the elevator. This time, she pressed the button for the 12th floor. The elevator chimed as we rose.

Once on the 12th floor, we exited and made our way to the boardroom. She opened the door and stepped inside, finding the rest of the team waiting for us.

"I apologize for the delay. My team member had a little issue that caused her delay," she explained.

"Please, take your seats. Let's move on with the briefing," Mr. Philip said. At the front of the room stood Mr. Philip, the head of the research department. He was in his forties but looked much younger. He commanded respect in a sharp suit and confident stance.

"First, let's start with introductions for those going on this research trip," he said, moving to the big screen.

A guy stood up. "I'm Mr. Michael Morris from research team 1. Excited to be part of this research!" he said, and the room erupted in applause.

Then, a beautiful young lady also stood."I'm Miss Kimberly Joe from research team 2. Thrilled to embark on this journey," she said, receiving a round of applause too.

"I'm Miss Seraphina Alvris from research team 3. Excited to join this research," I added when it was my turn, and the claps continued.

"I'm Mr. Stephen Lemon from research team 4. Great to work with you all," he said, earning more cheers.

"I'm Mr. Paul Peter from research team 5 and the leader of this research. I believe our collaboration will be a great key to our success," he announced, and the applause grew louder.

"In this research, I'll need your collaboration and cooperation. After this trip, everyone who participated will receive a bonus, there will be a 20% wage increment. A promotion, plus a long-term leave and a trip to any country of your choice," he concluded. The room buzzed with excitement and applause.

"Before I wrap up, do any of you have any questions?" he asked. Silence filled the room.

"Have a wonderful research trip!" he said and started exiting the room.

After Mr. Philip left; our different team leaders also gave their speeches. They reminded us to be careful and wished us a safe journey. Then, we all left the office, ready to embark on our research adventure.