Crash into love

The Collision

Anya's anxiety spiked as she stared at the email. How could Ryder add new requirements, with such a tight deadline? She felt overwhelmed, questioning her ability to deliver.

Determined to find a solution, Anya took a deep breath and marched to Ryder's office.

"Mr. Ryder, I need to discuss the revised project scope," Anya said, trying to sound calm.

Ryder looked up from his papers, his expression unreadable.

"I understand the importance of influencer marketing, but with the deadline tomorrow morning, it's challenging to incorporate these changes."

Ryder's expression remained unyielding.

"I expect exceptional work, Anya. Meet the requirements."

Anya gathered her courage.

"Sir, I've worked diligently on the initial outline. It's comprehensive and effective. Please consider sticking to the original scope. Adding influencer marketing now will compromise quality."

Ryder raised an eyebrow.

"You're questioning my judgement, Anya?"

Anya stood firm.

"I'm concerned about delivering quality within the timeframe, sir."

Ryder leaned back, steepling his fingers.

"I'll consider your request. But I expect you to find a solution, not excuses."

Anya left Ryder's office, unsure if she'd convinced him.

Back at her workstation, Emily noticed Anya's distress.

"Hey, what's wrong?" Emily asked.

Anya filled Emily in on the revised scope and her meeting with Ryder.

Emily offered words of encouragement.

"You've got this, Anya. And if needed, we can brainstorm together."

Anya smiled gratefully.

Just then, Ryder's assistant sent an email:
" Mr. Ryder has agreed to reconsider the revised scope. Meet with him at 4pm to discuss further."

Anya's heart lifted.

Maybe, just maybe, she could still meet the deadline with the initial outline.

Anya stood outside Ryder's office, taking a deep breath to calm her nerves. She knocked, but when there was no response, she assumed he was ready for her and gently pushed open the door.

"Sir, I - " she began.

But her words were cut off as she collided with Ryder, who was exiting his office simultaneously.

Anya's papers and laptop flew out of her hands as they both stumbled backward, losing balance.

Time seemed to slow as Anya's world tilted.

She felt Ryder's strong arms wrap around her, pulling her close to break their fall.

They landed on the floor, Ryder's body cushioning Anya's impact.

For a moment, they lay there, tangled together, faces inches apart.

Anya's cheeks flushed as Ryder's piercing gaze locked onto hers.

"Sorry," Ryder muttered, his voice low and husky.

Anya's voice is barely above a whisper, "It's okay."

As they disentangled themselves, Anya's papers and laptop scattered around them.

Ryder quickly stood, offering Anya a hand up.
Their eyes met, and for an instant, Anya saw a glimmer of warmth in Ryder's expression.

But it vanished as quickly as it appeared.

"Shall we proceed with the meeting?" Ryder asked, his tone back to its usual aloofness.

Anya nodded, still feeling the warmth of his touch.
They gathered her belongings.