Her Second Chance

Chapter 2

09 August(Friday  )

Alex's POV

Damn! I hate being late, but that's what I get for sleeping in for an extra 5 minutes, all because packing an overnight bag for a 10 year old proved to be so difficult .The child just couldn't make up his mind last night.You would think he was going for a month.Another time waster this morning was having to wash my hair, it's actually becoming a struggle, and I think it's time for a trim. Having it waist long is becoming a struggle. Anyway I made it to work, even if it's 15 minutes late.I hope I don't get into trouble since I'm new here.I'm just going to have to skip lunch today to cover up.Before heading up, I go to the little coffee shop on the ground floor of our building to grab a cup of coffee.The daint little lady at the counaàaàter greets me with a familiar smile

"Good morning Alexandra."

"Good morning Mrs Dooly.Can I get a cup of coffee please."

"Sure thing Alexandra."She says heading to the back.

She insists on calling me Alexandra, even when I assured her Alex is fine.When she returns, she hands me the coffee and a donut.She's been giving me free donuts from the day I arrived,and just like every other day I hand her enough money for the coffee and donut, and yet again she doesn't charge me for the donut.She really is such a sweet lady.

"Thank you Mrs Dooly."I smile

"You're welcome dear.Have a lovely day."She smiles back.

"You as well." I reply

I take the elevator to my office, and I'm greeted by Amy the receptionist.

"Good morning Alex."She says cheerfully.

"Good morning Amy."I say walking past, but I stop when she continues talking ,commenting on my hair

"Love your hair Alex, probably takes a long time to get it that straight." She beams excitedly

I'm really not into morning conversations, but she is very sweet so I oblige her

"It doesn't take much effort Amy, just wash, and blow dry.The result is a head of long, straight, flat hair, but thank you ." I smile and head to my office.

When I enter I notice a bunch of flowers on my desk.That's strange.I don't know anyone here except Jen. Who would send me these? My thoughts are interrupted by a knock on the door. The invitation I call out welcomes Jen in with a bright smile.

"Good morning Alex"

"Morning Jen.Do you have any idea who sent these flowers?"

"Yes Alex.Mr Piper did."

"Mr Piper.....our boss?"

"Yes.It's a welcome gift.He does that for every new employee."

"Wow! Its such a sweet gesture."

"Yes he is like that, he's always doing good stuff, like throwing parties, lunches and so on.Get used to it , and dont look so anxious girl, it really is okay to except gestures without thinking if there is ulterior motive.You need to start attuning yourself to being treated properly."she happily boasts.

My throat is a bit thick, and I know I'm on the verge of tears, but Jens smiling faces helps.

"I'll call and thank him later."

"Oh I'm sure you will."She states teasingly."Anyway I gotta get back to work.We'll chat later okay." She walks away and I feel the tears fall. Surprisingly she turns around,and just like that I'm caught with tears running down my cheek.