Hearts On The Highrise

Chapter 53 : ghosts of the past

As I prepared to head to the resort for our project, stepping out of my home, the sun beat down relentlessly. The heat was already unbearable, and I found solace in slipping on my sunglasses, partly to shield my eyes from the blinding rays, but also to conceal any traces of the tears shed the night before. I knew I would inevitably cross paths with Charlotte today, and the last thing I wanted was to reveal my vulnerability to her.

As I pulled into the parking lot with my documents and tablet in hand, I realized I was running late. Hurrying to the entrance, I was greeted by the staff and director, who offered me a refreshing drink. They escorted me to a large resort hall where, as soon as I entered, everyone stood up to greet me. Smiling, I scanned the room and spotted Charlotte seated, busy scribbling notes on her notepad.

With a resigned sigh, I pushed my sunglasses into my hair, knowing I had no choice but to take them off. I stepped forward and greeted the group before dimming the lights, activating the projector and taking a sip from my water bottle. I launched into a discussion of the marketing project, glancing in the direction of Charlotte, who had not yet raised her head and remained absorbed in her notepad.

Once I started talking and showing photos and videos on the projector, the room came alive with discussion. When the presentation was over, everyone was eager to share their ideas and debate different aspects of the project. I listened attentively, arms folded, but couldn't help glancing at Charlotte, who remained unresponsive, immersed in her notepad.

Growing increasingly frustrated, I finally addressed her directly. "Charlotte, do you have anything to add?" I asked in a tone of impatience.

Charlotte remained silent, and all eyes turned to her. Tina nudged her to answer. Finally, Charlotte raised her head, met my gaze and asked me to repeat the question."I was asking if you had anything to add to the discussion," I repeated, trying to maintain a professional tone.

Charlotte shook her head and replied softly, "No, I don't have anything to add." Her tone was distant, and her gaze shifted away, as if she were avoiding further interaction.

"It would be really valuable to hear your thoughts too," I said, trying to keep my tone gentle despite my frustration. "We've all shared our ideas, and it would be great to get your perspective as well."

"If I shared my thoughts, I doubt it would please you, Ms. Waraha," she said, her voice devoid of its usual warmth. Charlotte's response caught me off guard, her words laced with bitterness. I struggled to maintain my composure.

"Well," I replied, forcing a casual tone, "I'm more interested in hearing your thoughts than worrying about whether they'll please me or not."

"I'd rather not say what I think," she said coldly, "You've already received plenty of ideas, so I fail to see how sharing my thoughts would make any difference."

"Besides," she continued, her voice tinged with bitterness, "It's not like you've ever cared much about what I have to say, anyway." Her gaze remained steady, challenging me to refute her words.

I felt the sting of Charlotte's words, her own frustration boiling to the surface. "Well, forgive me for thinking you might have something valuable to contribute," I retorted, my voice laced with bitterness. "After all, we used to be quite the team, didn't we? Or did you forget all the times we worked together?"

Charlotte's gaze hardened, a flicker of resentment flashing in her eyes. "Oh, I remember those times very well," she shot back, her tone sharp. "But I also remember how easily you walked away when things got tough. Funny how you're suddenly so interested in teamwork now, huh, Ms. Waraha?"

I cleared my throat, suddenly aware of all eyes on us, puzzled by the unfolding drama. Heidi attempted to calm Charlotte, but I struggled to regain control of the situation.