After Everything

Chapter 9 - Hardin

Ana interrupts my moment of relief with her usual efficient timing.

"Mr. Scott we need to leave for the next meeting."

I sigh, feeling the weight of my absence from Tessa and Auden pressing on my chest. "Fine, let's go."

The car ride is tense and silent. Ana is busy typing away in her tablet, completely absorbed in her work. I can't help but feel a pang of resentment toward her dedication, it's a stark contrast to my own restless mind. My thoughts keep drifting back to Tessa and Auden, the sound of Tessa's voice lingering in my ears.

Finally, we arrive at the office building where the next meeting is held. As we step out of the car, Ana hands me a folder.

"Here are the documents for Mr. Haynes and Mr. Collin's. I've highlighted the key points for you."
I take the folder without a word and head inside. The meeting room is large, with floor-to-ceiling windows offering a view of Seattle's skyline. Mr. Collins and Mr. Haynes are already seated, engaged in a quiet conversation.

"Mr. Scott, good to see you." Mr. Collins greets me with a firm handshake. "Shall we begin?"

The meeting drags on. It's a necessary evil, discussing the minutiae of contracts and future projects, but my heart isn't in it. My mind keeps wandering back to Tessa and Auden. The thought of Auden falling, even if he's okay, gnaws at me. I should be there, not stuck in this sterile room miles away from them.

After what feels like an eternity, the meeting finally concludes. My attention span had long since diminished, qnd the discussions about contracts and future ventures seemed to blur into a dull hum. I'm relieved when the session wraps up, and I shake hands with Mr. Collins and Mr. Haynes, offering polite but distracted goodbyes.
Ana and I make our way back to the car. The drive back to the hotel is just as silent as the first. I glance at Ana, who is again engrossed in her tablet. It's no use trying to talk, I'm too preoccupied with my own thoughts. The absence of Tessa and Auden weighs heavily on me, and I can't wait to get back to them.

Arriving at the hotel, I thank Ana and tell her to take the evening off. She looks surprised but nods in understanding. "Very well, Mr. Scott. I'll see you tomorrow."

"Thanks, Ana. I'll catch up with you in the morning."

I watch her leave and quickly head up to my room. The minute I walk through the door, I call Tessa again. My nerves are frayed, and I need to hear her voice to soothe the anxiety that's been building up all day.
She answers on the second ring. "Hardin?"

"Tess, it's me. I'm so glad you answered. I just needed to hear your voice."

"I'm here." she says softly. "I miss you. Everything is alright now. Auden's asleep, and I've been trying to get everything back to normal."

"I'm sorry for not being there." I say, feeling a pang of guilt. "I hate that I had to miss this."

"It's okay, Hardin. I understand. We're managing. Just focus on getting through your work, and we'll be here waiting for you."

"I'll be home as soon as I can. I've already booked the earliest flight back." I assure her. "I can't wait to hold you and Auden and Emery."

"Good." she replies, her voice filled with warmth. "We'll be here."

We exchange a few more words before reluctantly ending the call. I sit on the edge of my bed, staring at the city lights outside my window. Each one represents a reminder of the distance between us, but soon enough, I'll be back where I belong.

I'm determined to make the most of the remaining time here. I review the notes for tomorrow's meetings trying, to focus on the tasks at hand, but my thoughts keep drifting back to my family. The sooner I get back to them, the better.
Eventually, I turn off the lights and try to get some rest, though sleep doesn't come easily. I'm too eager to be back home, in the embrace of my family, where I truly belong.
•••••••
After an eternity, I'm really motivated to keep writing the story of Hessa.