Encoding Love (BWWM)

///ONE

Today was not like any other day. It was the day that everything could change for Zora. Like some daily inspirational quotes she found scrolling through her Facebook feed. "Today is the day your life begins."

Now typically, Zora wasn't the cliché type. She didn't believe one action or decision could bring a life-changing moment. Life happens as it does, and she goes along with the flow. But today, one single decision could open a brand-new world for her.

It was early morning, and New York City waited for no one. Zora was rushing up the sidewalk, weaving her way through the crowd. Traffic to Brooklyn was painstakingly slow but a given in the big city. So she had to run – well, more like speed walk – two blocks to her job when her taxi got caught in a gridlock.

She didn't have time to waste. Not today! Zora was a woman on a mission.

She entered a brown-brick building about 10-stories high. Her feet didn't stop moving as she crossed the lobby. Zora didn't bother with the elevator, opting to take the stairs.

"Good Morning, Zora." The young receptionist greeted her when she reached her floor.

"Morning, Simone," she nodded to the woman. She was finally pausing to breathe after her long walk.

Tucked away behind the counter like every morning was Simone. Earpiece attached and tablet in hand. "This morning's meeting is confirmed. Nathan Klein is to arrive shortly."

Zora nodded at the information. "Then I should go prepare the board room."

"Oh, you don't have to worry about that," Simone uttered. Then a hesitant expression crossed her face. "Ms. Pierce is in and has already prepared it. She instructed me to inform her the second you arrived."

"Wonderful," Zora tried hard not to grimace at the news. "Can you hold off on telling her I'm here?"

Simone smiled reassuringly. "She's in one of her moods today. It might be best if I stay clear of her."

Zora thanked Simone. She continued to stride past the counter, down a brightly lit corridor. The words Lolland Software hung onto the wall as she passed. Zora got her first job as a software developer in a small yet dynamic company right out of college.

This floor was her hi-tech sanctuary. Industrial styled from the concrete ceilings, exposed brick walls, and large paneled windows. The center of the room was where most people worked in the neat rows of desks. Along the far wall were private areas and offices. Above them was the boss's lofty office overlooking the entire floor. 

The workspace was buzzing. Phones rang, fierce typing at desktops with incoherent talk and laughter filled the room.

"You got someone hot on your heels?" a deep voice called out to Zora mid-stride.

She stilled, turning to peer into a pair of light brown eyes. Elijah Simms. He eyed her with an amused smile curved onto his lips.

Zora frowned. "Only the Wicked Witch of Brooklyn."

"I heard she was up to no good this morning." Elijah chuckled lightly. "But today's the big day! Think you can take on a heavyweight like Nathan Klein?"

"I think I can manage Mr. Klein. After all, he came to us."

"And you're the best we have to offer."

Zora smiled sheepishly. "I'm good, but I'm no genius like him."

"You're being modest." He shook his head. "Even though you don't need it, good luck, Zo. You got this." His warm hand skimmed down her arm; though it was a friendly gesture, Zora's cheeks burned. "I'll see you later," with a wink, he walked away.