“So, Lila, welcome to the team! Let me give you a brief orientation,” Sue said, her eyes crinkling at the corners.
“Thanks, Sue. I’m really excited to be here,” I replied, trying to keep my voice steady.
Two women shaking hands | Source: Pexels
As we walked around the office, Sue pointed out the kitchen, the conference rooms, and finally, the desk where I’d be working.
I sat down, trying to absorb everything she was saying. Then, she glanced at my nameplate and froze.
“Your last name is Carter… wow, that’s a coincidence. You have the same last name as our Dylan,” she said with a chuckle.
I couldn’t help but joke, “Maybe I’m his wife?”
Sue’s smile faltered, and she looked uncomfortable. “No, his wife died a year ago. It was tragic. He took several weeks off to cope.”
A woman smiling awkwardly | Source: Pexels
I felt like I’d been sucker-punched. My ears started ringing, and for a moment, I thought I might pass out.
“I’m sorry, what?” I stammered, my voice barely more than a whisper.
My mind raced, trying to process her words. Dylan had taken time off work? A year ago? He hadn’t mentioned anything about a break. But now that I thought about it, he did go on a long business trip around that time.
Sue frowned, concern etched on her face. “I know, it’s awful. I shouldn’t have brought it up. I’m sorry.”
A serious and thoughtful woman | Source: Pexels
I forced a weak smile. As I tried to make sense of this revelation, the office door swung open. And in walked Dylan, holding hands with his boss, Rachel. They looked like a picture-perfect couple, laughing and chatting as if they didn’t have a care in the world.
My stomach churned with a sickening mix of betrayal and rage. I leaned over behind my desk and fiddled with my shoe, pretending I was fixing a strap.
“That’s him now.” Sue leaned in, her voice a conspiratorial whisper. “He’s been dating the boss for a while. Dylan said they haven’t married because he still remembers his wife.”
An office space | Source: Pexels
I lifted my head just high enough to peek over the top of my desk. I watched Dylan and Rachel make their way to his office. My shock quickly morphed into a burning desire for revenge.
