Love Thy Neighbor (Even if He's a Jerk)

Chapter 4: Finding Balance

Rawena stepped into the sleek, modern lobby of the bank. The soft hum of conversation and the gentle tapping of keyboards greeted her as she made her way to her desk. She enjoyed the routine of her job—the meticulous calculations, the satisfying balance of numbers—but today, her mind kept wandering back to Carter and the unexpected bouquet of flowers he had given her.

It was... really nice of him, she thought.

Shaking her head to clear her mind, Rawena focused on the stack of paperwork waiting for her on her desk. She dove into her tasks with determination, methodically reviewing spreadsheets and reconciling accounts. As she worked, she couldn't help but feel a sense of accomplishment with each balanced ledger.

Around mid-morning, Rawena received an email notification from a client requesting a lunch meeting to discuss their financial portfolio. She quickly confirmed the appointment and prepared a summary of the client's accounts, making sure everything was in order for their meeting.

At noon, Rawena met her client, Mr. Thompson, at a nearby upscale restaurant. Mr. Thompson was a middle-aged man with a penchant for expensive suits and a demeanor that exuded confidence. They exchanged pleasantries as they settled into a private booth, the waiter taking their drink orders.

Over lunch, they delved into the details of Mr. Thompson's investments, discussing strategies for maximizing returns while minimizing risks. Rawena listened attentively, offering insights and recommendations based on her expertise. She enjoyed these interactions, finding satisfaction in helping her clients achieve their financial goals.

As they finished their meal, Mr. Thompson expressed his appreciation for Rawena's expertise. "You've been a tremendous help, Rawena. I feel much more confident about our strategy moving forward."

Rawena smiled graciously, pleased with the successful meeting. "I'm glad to hear that, Mr. Thompson. If you have any further questions or concerns, please don't hesitate to reach out."

Mr. Thompson's gaze lingered on Rawena a moment longer than necessary, his tone shifting slightly. "You know, Rawena, it's not often I meet someone as talented and beautiful as you."

Rawena's smile faltered, discomfort creeping into her expression. She shifted in her seat, suddenly aware of the inappropriate turn in the conversation. "Thank you, Mr. Thompson, but I'm here to discuss your investments."

Mr. Thompson leaned closer, his voice lowering. "Of course, of course. But I can't help but admire a woman who's as intelligent as you."

Rawena's unease grew, her mind racing for a polite way to redirect the conversation. "I... I appreciate the compliment, but I'm not looking for anything beyond a professional relationship."

Mr. Thompson raised an eyebrow, a knowing smile playing on his lips. "No need to be shy, Rawena. A woman like you deserves to be appreciated in every way."

Rawena's heart raced with discomfort, her cheeks flushing with embarrassment and frustration. She knew she needed to end the conversation before it went any further.

"Mr. Thompson, I'm very flattered but I think it's best we stick to discussing your financial portfolio. Our firm codex forbids any relationship with a client that is not professional." Rawena said firmly, her voice tinged with resolve.

Mr. Thompson's smile faded slightly, but he nodded in acquiescence. "Of course, Rawena. My apologies."

Rawena forced a smile, gathering her composure. "No problem. Now, if you'll excuse me, I need to get back to the office."

She hastily paid her share of the bill and made her exit, relief flooding through her as she stepped out into the fresh air. She couldn't shake the unsettling feeling that lingered from her encounter with Mr. Thompson. She had faced unwanted advances before, but that didn't make them any easier to handle.

As Rawena walked back to the bank, her thoughts turned to the yoga class she had planned for that evening. She needed a way to clear her mind and regain her sense of calm.

After finishing up her work for the day, Rawena changed into comfortable yoga attire and made her way to the yoga studio. The serene atmosphere enveloped her as she entered, the scent of incense and soft music creating a peaceful ambiance.

She unrolled her mat and took a seat, closing her eyes to focus on her breathing. The instructor entered the room—a slender woman with a serene smile and a soothing voice. She guided the class through a series of gentle stretches and breathing exercises, encouraging them to let go of tension and find inner peace.

Rawena flowed through the poses with grace and concentration, feeling the tension melt away with each stretch and twist. Yoga had become a sanctuary for her—a place where she could quiet her mind and reconnect with her body.

As the class progressed, the instructor led them into more challenging poses. Rawena welcomed the physical exertion, relishing the strength and flexibility she had cultivated through years of practice. She moved with fluidity and grace, her muscles stretching and contracting in harmony with her breath.

In Warrior II pose, Rawena felt a sense of empowerment as she grounded herself firmly into the earth, arms extended parallel to the floor. She embraced the strength in her legs, the stability in her core, and the openness in her heart.

Transitioning into Downward-Facing Dog, Rawena relished the stretch in her spine and the release of tension in her shoulders. She closed her eyes, surrendering to the present moment, letting go of any lingering stress or worry.

In Tree pose, Rawena balanced on one leg, the sole of her foot pressing firmly against her inner thigh. She lifted her arms overhead, fingertips reaching toward the sky, feeling a sense of lightness and poise.

And she felt... like herself again.

As the class drew to a close, the instructor guided them into Savasana—the final relaxation pose. Rawena lay on her back, eyes closed, allowing her body to sink into the mat. She focused on her breath, letting go of thoughts and distractions, embracing the stillness and peace that enveloped her.

When the instructor gently called them back to the present, Rawena opened her eyes with a serene smile. She felt rejuvenated, centered, and ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead.

After the class, Rawena lingered in the studio for a few moments, savoring the lingering sense of calm and clarity. She rolled up her mat and made her way back into the bustling city streets, the rhythmic flow of her steps echoing the steady beat of her heart.

Rawena returned home and just utter a sighn.

Her peace was interrupted by a burst of laughter coming from the other room. The room, where Carter lived. Curious, Rawena put her ear to their shared wall. Carter, with two other men—his friends, apparently—both of whom were laughing along with him.

"Yeah, she probably thinks those flowers mean something," one of Carter's friends said with a smirk.

Carter chuckled, his voice tinged with mockery. "Please, it's all an act. She's pain in the ass. I just need her wrapped around my finger now that she's my neighbor."

Rawena's heart sank as she listened to their callous words. Anger surged within her, mingling with hurt and humiliation. She had started to believe there might be more to Carter, but now it seemed like he was just playing a cruel game at her expense.

She clenched her fists, her jaw tightening with determination. She refused to be belittled or ridiculed by Carter or anyone else. If he thought she was just an easy target for his amusement, he had another thing coming.

Quietly seething, Rawena retreated into her bathroom, closing the door softly behind her, so he doesn't know she's home. She paced back and forth, her mind racing with thoughts of revenge. She couldn't let Carter get away with making her feel small and foolish.

The son of a bitch will pay.