Yuri sighed deeply, forcing herself to focus on the routine of getting dressed for work. She selected her outfit—a neatly pressed blouse and skirt—and began preparing for the day ahead. The rain outside seemed to mirror the turmoil within her, a persistent reminder of the storm that was brewing, not just in the weather, but in her life.
Yuri hailed a taxi and climbed in, her mind preoccupied as she settled into the back seat. The driver had the radio on, and a soft melody played in the background, barely audible over the steady drum of the rain against the windows. As the taxi drove through the city, the rain intensified, turning from a drizzle to a relentless downpour.
Yuri's phone rang again, and she glanced at the screen. It was her sister-in-law. With a sigh of frustration, she ignored the call. Moments later, the phone rang again. This time, her irritation flared. She answered sharply, "What happened? Why are you calling me?"
On the other end, her sister-in-law’s voice was calm but firm. "Come home. Mother wants to talk to you."
Yuri’s jaw tightened. "I’m busy," she snapped, and ended the call abruptly.
The taxi driver’s voice broke through her frustration. "We’ve arrived at your destination," he said, pulling to a stop in front of her office building.
Yuri stepped out, her umbrella barely shielding her from the relentless rain. She forced a smile, though it was more a mask than a reflection of her true feelings. She walked quickly toward the building, her steps measured but hurried. As she crossed the threshold of her office, the artificial warmth and light of the lobby felt like a welcome escape from the storm, yet her mind remained heavy with the day's burdens.
As Yuri entered the office, her friend from the reception spotted her and greeted her with a cheerful wave. "Good morning, Yuri!" she called out brightly.
Yuri managed a polite smile in response. "Good morning," she said, though her tone lacked the enthusiasm of her friend's.
She made her way to her desk, but as she approached, she was intercepted by Aisha , the boss's assistant. "Yuri, the boss needs to see you in his office," Aisha informed her with a hint of concern in her voice.
Yuri nodded and headed toward the executive office. The imposing mahogany doors of the office were slightly ajar, and as she pushed them open, she saw her boss engaged in a phone conversation.
A tall man in his late thirties, his presence was commanding. He wore a well-tailored dark suit that accentuated his broad shoulders and authoritative demeanor. His neatly combed dark hair was starting to show signs of silver at the temples, adding a distinguished air to his sharp features.
He looked up briefly and gestured to a chair near the door.
Yuri took a seat, her gaze wandering around the office. It was an expansive space, meticulously decorated with high-end furniture and art pieces. The items seemed to be placed with deliberate precision, showcasing both wealth and a certain taste. The room exuded an aura of power and authority.

YOU ARE READING
Echoes of the Rain
RomanceIn a quiet corner of the city, where the relentless hum of life seemed to pause with each drop of rain, Yuri lived in a world of memories. It had been five years since Yohan had left, and yet, for Yuri, time had folded into an endless loop of days m...