I'm in A Novel?

Chapter 30

Andy found it difficult to shake off the memory of her dream, a vivid recollection that seemed to linger in the corners of her mind. Despite this, she was resolute in her determination to move forward and embrace the new chapter in her life, a thoughtful gift from Jane that she intended to cherish and nurture. As she sat behind her desk, contemplating the intricate tapestry of her thoughts, she was interrupted by Crystal, a meticulously selected assistant known for her poised demeanor and an impeccable eye for detail. Crystal entered the office, her presence exuding an air of professionalism as she approached Andy with a stack of files to review and sign, her perfectly manicured nails tapping lightly on the documents.

"Ms. Andy, these are the forms from the accounting department that require your signature," Crystal said in a soft, respectful tone, placing the documents on the desk before retreating a few steps, her posture radiating competence and grace.

Promptly reviewing the contents of the paperwork, Andy reached for the sleek silver fountain pen nestled in her pencil holder, the sunlight casting a glimmering reflection off its elegant surface. With meticulous care, she proceeded to sign each document, her movements characterized by fluid and graceful strokes. Although routine for Andy, her focused demeanor seemed to intrigue Crystal, who typically found Andy's conversational nature quite endearing. Observing Andy's uncharacteristic tranquility, Crystal was taken aback when Andy softly inquired, "Um, do you need anything else?" Her hazel eyes reflected genuine concern.

"N-no, miss. That's all," stammered Crystal, momentarily faltering in her usual confidence before swiftly leaving the room, the sound of her heels resonating lightly on the polished floor.

As she made her way down the hallway, Crystal found herself unable to dispel the disquieting feeling that had taken root within her. Tangled in her thoughts, she questioned herself, "Is it just me?" Her brow furrowed slightly as she absently tapped the edge of her desk upon reaching her office. Flipping through files, she struggled to shake the apprehension regarding Andy's atypical behavior. "Does she have a problem? It's unusual for her to be quiet like that," she pondered, her gaze fixed on the elegant pen she twirled between her fingers.

Days later, Crystal once again approached Andy's office to present her with the day's schedule and meeting appointments. Knocking on the door, she heard Andy's somewhat distant voice granting her entry.

"Here's your meeting appointments for today, Miss," she said, extending the folder towards Andy.

"Thank you. You may go," Andy responded, her attention seemingly absorbed by the contents on her laptop screen, not sparing a glance at Crystal.

As Crystal turned to leave, an impulse overcame her, causing her to pause and reconsider. She pivoted back towards Andy and found her engrossed in her work.

Andy, sensing Crystal's prolonged presence, eventually glanced up from her laptop and inquired, "Do you still need anything?"

"Uhm, No? I mean yes," Crystal replied, her words betraying the uncertainty clouding her thoughts.

Perplexed by Crystal's equivocal response, Andy paused her work and closed the laptop, fixing her gaze intently on Crystal. "What is it?" she asked, her tone laced with concern.

"I- I just can't shake this feeling that you're worried about something. I mean, when you hired me, you were usually so chatty, which I admired about you, but you've been unusually quiet since yesterday, I think... Actually, for quite some time now. It's as if you're not the same Andy who initially brought me on board," Crystal confessed, surprised at her candidness. Yet, the burden of her silent observations had become too heavy to bear.

Andy sighed, feeling overwhelmed and on the verge of tears. She looked up at the ceiling, trying to compose herself. "So, someone noticed." She thought. After a moment, she turned to face Crystal, who was watching her with concern.

"Are you okay?" Crystal asked, her voice filled with genuine worry.

Andy forced a smile, trying to hide her emotions. "I'm fine, don't worry. It's just a hectic time at the company," she reassured her. She reached out and took Crystal's hands in a gesture of appreciation. "Thank you for caring. I made the right choice in hiring you."

Crystal nodded, her concern still evident in her eyes. "If there's anything I can do to help, please let me know. I'm here for you," she offered sincerely.

"Thank you," Andy replied, grateful for Crystal's support. As she watched Crystal leave the room, she couldn't help but feel thankful for having such a reliable secretary, even though she knew that some problems were beyond her assistant's ability to solve.

****

The day of the raid has come.

Kayden had been preparing for this day for what seemed like an eternity. He carefully selected the guns and placed them in their designated spots in his private gym, where he stored all of his weapons. He double-checked the ammunition and made sure his suit was in perfect condition before holstering the guns. As he adjusted his gear, he absentmindedly glanced at his phone and was met with the smiling face of Jane. Despite knowing that the person in the photo was no longer Andy, he couldn't bring himself to delete the picture; it held too many memories. While gazing at the image, a sudden longing welled up within him. He yearned to see Jane once more. He needed to confirm something, to hold onto a glimmer of hope that perhaps Andy had returned. Could he afford to give up hope at a time like this?

"Kay, we're ready," Keith's voice broke into Kayden's reverie as he entered the gym.

"You go ahead. I just need to take care of something first," Kayden replied as he swiftly made his way out of the private gym.

*****

Hey there! So, yeah. Quite a short chapter again right? There are too many delays, too. I'm really sorry 😞 anyway, I still love you all. So what do you suppose will happen next? 🤔😁

*your author here ❤️