Bitter Love

Chapter 3:Application

Rebecca balanced the tray carefully in her hands, the aroma of freshly brewed coffee and warm bread filling the air. She tiptoed into their room, where soft morning light filtered through the curtains, casting a gentle glow on Benjamin’s still form in the bed. He lay there, motionless from the waist down but with a look of quiet strength in his eyes, a silent observer of the world around him.

“Good morning, Ben,”

Rebecca whispered, setting the tray down on the bedside table. She arranged the plates with care, knowing exactly where he liked his coffee and how he preferred his toast. The routine was familiar, a dance they had perfected over years of shared mornings.

Benjamin’s gaze shifted to her, a flicker of gratitude in his eyes. Though his legs were paralyzed, his mind remained sharp, a fortress of resilience against the challenges life had thrown their way.

Benjamin said softly, his voice carrying warmth despite the struggles he faced. Rebecca smiled as she gently brushed his hand with hers, a gesture of reassurance and love that needed no words. Together, they faced each day with quiet strength, finding solace in the simple moments that bound them together.

Upstairs...

After breakfast, Evie hurried to her laptop, her heart racing with anticipation. She had applied for that job weeks ago, hoping it would be her ticket to stability and maybe even a step closer to her dreams. As the familiar login screen blinked to life, she held her breath and clicked on the email icon.

Her stomach dropped when she saw the subject line: "Application Status Update." With trembling fingers, she opened the email, scanning the words that confirmed her fears-she hadn't been selected. Disappointment washed over her in waves, mingling with tinge of frustration and a deep-seated ache for something more.

Evie closed her eyes, willing herself to accept the setback. She had prepared for this moment, knowing the competition was fierce. But no amount of preparation could shield her from the sting of rejection, the uncertainty of what would come next.

Suddenly,her phone rang.It was Liam Walker,her best friend.

"Hey you."

"Hi"

"You don't seem too good.what's up?How did the application go?"

"Not good."

"Don't give up just yet.I'll help you this time with the application.You promised."

"Okay whatever."

"Cheer up Evie.How about karaoke later?I'll not take no for an answer."

"I don't know Liam-"

"So that's a maybe.I take it as a yes.I'll pick you up."
And he hung up.

This guy....

Evie lay on the bed, sighing as she stared at the ceiling. Liam wasn’t just her best friend but also like a brother. Ever since her dad's accident, the Walkers had supported the Hamiltons in every way they could. Since Liam took over as the head of the company, he had been a constant source of support for Evie and her family.

She was grateful to have him by her side, especially during her lowest moments. She remembered Liam’s words:

“Don’t give up just yet.”

Determined, she sat up and resolved not to give up. She grabbed her jacket and laptop, heading to her favorite place—the café.