Chapter 3 Harper

After Josh apologized, we managed to find common ground and maintained a polite relationship.

As Amelia and I walked into the office building, Sophia unexpectedly approached us, directing her gaze at me. Her expression turned sour as she scrutinized my outfit. "Dressed like this because you’re meeting the boss?" she sneered.

Amelia immediately came to my defense. "Does Harper intimidate you?"

I met Sophia’s eyes briefly but didn’t let her comment bother me. With a determined look, I left them and headed toward Josh’s office.

Upon entering, I greeted him, "Good morning, sir."

He smiled, "Good morning, Ms. Cole." His friendly demeanor eased my initial nerves. "Please, have a seat."

"Thank you," I replied, sitting down.

"I’d like you to interview some interns," he said, looking up from his computer.

"Human Resources typically handles interviews," I pointed out. "They’re fully equipped for it."

"I value your input. You have a sharp eye for talent," he explained.

Then, unexpectedly, he asked, "Are you currently in a relationship? Sometimes personal matters can affect work, and I just want to make sure you’re not distracted."

Caught off guard, I responded, "I prefer not to discuss my personal life at work. It would be equally inappropriate for me to ask you about yours."

Josh didn't seem fazed. "I’m single. I was engaged once, but it didn’t work out."

"Sophia and the others will be thrilled to hear that," I said, aware of the attention he often received.

"And you’re not?" he asked, leaning back slightly. "I know we didn’t start well, but I’m trying to make things right between us."

He continued, "Sophia’s made her interest clear, but I keep things professional. Personal and work matters should stay separate."

"Let’s get back to business. Can you handle the intern interviews?"

I shrugged. "It’s not part of my job description, but I’ll follow the instructions."

"Good," he said, dismissing me with a wave. "Have a good day, Miss Cole."

Frustrated, I left his office, fuming at his arrogance.

---

The next morning, I woke to sunlight streaming through the curtains. With no plans for the day, I was grateful for a break after the stress of meeting deadlines at work.

Just then, my phone rang. It was Amelia, suggesting we go to a spa together. Thrilled, I eagerly agreed.

After a refreshing bath, I headed downstairs, where the delightful smell of bacon filled the air. I found my mom in the kitchen. "Good morning, Mummy," I greeted her.

"Good morning, baby girl," she replied, smiling.

"I’m not a baby anymore," I said playfully, rolling my eyes. My mom and I have a close bond, especially since I’m an only child. However, I do have a cousin, Ava, who lives with us. After her parents passed away, my mom became her legal guardian.

With seven years between us, I naturally became her big sister, a role I embraced wholeheartedly.

As we ate breakfast, Ava asked why I was dressed up. I told her about the spa date with Amelia, and after finishing breakfast, I met up with Amelia for a shopping trip. We spent the afternoon at the spa, enjoying some much-needed relaxation, and caught up on the latest gossip, including Sophia’s flirtation with Josh. Later, we grabbed a meal at a cozy restaurant before parting ways, both in high spirits.

When I got home, I was surprised to find my dad in the living room. I rushed over and gave him a big hug. "You’re back! How was the trip?"

"Take it easy," he chuckled, but I noticed something was off. He wasn’t his usual cheerful self.

"Where are Mom and Ava?" I asked.

"They went to get groceries," he said.

Sensing something was wrong, I asked, "Dad, are you okay?"

He sighed, motioning for me to sit. "Our business is in trouble. We’re close to losing everything. I tried to fix it, but things didn’t go as planned."

"Dad, it’ll be okay. We’ll figure it out," I said, trying to reassure him. But his next words shook me.

"You’re getting married. In two months."

I pulled back, staring at him in disbelief. "What? Two months? I’m not a commodity to be arranged like this! I have feelings!"

He remained silent, lost in thought. I took a deep breath and asked the question that terrified me most. "Who am I supposed to marry?"