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Somalia
Elle's POV
I was in a room full of children, helping them draw pictures. I loved how they put their thoughts and imaginations onto paper, their innocent creativity shining through every line and color. As I guided their hands, a sense of peace and purpose washed over me, something I hadn't felt in a long time.
But then, I felt it—someone intensely watching me from across the room. I looked up and my eyes met Justin's. His gaze was so piercing, so unwavering, that I could feel the weight of it even from a distance.
After a successful day of helping the children in the village, I sat down with a cup of tea, enjoying a quiet moment with Anna. She had been a great help throughout the day, and we had grown closer, sharing stories and laughter. Anna had been working for Justin for five years, and her dedication to the cause was inspiring.
"You know, ever since you came to this company with Mr. Matthews, I see our company in a better light. The atmosphere has improved, and seeing how we help the poor with our own hands just makes me feel good," Anna said, her smile warm and genuine.
I was about to respond when Justin's voice interrupted us. "Can I talk to you, Elle?" he asked. There was something in his tone that made me look up. I glanced at Anna, who gave me a knowing smile before leaving us alone. Justin sat down where she had been, his eyes fixed on me.
"Elle—" he started, but I cut him off, offering him some tea.
"You want some?" I asked, trying to lighten the mood. He nodded, accepting the cup. He seemed so calm, so different from the usual Justin. The asshole façade was gone, and I felt like I was seeing the true Justin for the first time.
"I'm sorry for mistreating you ever since I met you," he said quietly, taking a sip from his cup. His words caught me off guard, and my eyebrows shot up in surprise.
"Didn't expect that," I replied, my voice a mix of skepticism and curiosity.
"But I mean it, Elle," his voice was calm and full of regret. I take a second to watch him as his eyes were focussed on his cup. He looked bothered, some trouble sitting deep inside of him, "I'm really sorry, I have been so wrong about you."
I set my cup down and looked at him, curiosity piqued. "Wrong about me? How?"
He sighed deeply, running a hand through his hair as if searching for the right words. "When we first met, I assumed you were just like everyone else. I thought you'd eventually prove that all women are the same... untrustworthy."
