After the chaotic hill party, I hurried home, grateful for the spare key I had. I tiptoed inside, not wanting to disturb Nic's sleep. Talking was the last thing on my mind.
********
I woke up and saw that I had 10 freaking missed calls and 5 messages from Mark. It hit me that I didn't talk to him before leaving, and now he might think something's up. I quickly got ready, throwing on a comfy sweatpant and hoodie. I knew Nichole would be in the kitchen, ready to interrogate me about the event, which was already draining me. She called me over and asked how the party was, giving me a playful wink. Then she asked what time I came back. I couldn't recall, and she noticed something was off. Concerned, she asked if something happened to me. I just felt drained and replied, "I'm not sure, just feeling a bit off."
"Nic, seriously, I'm fine. Don't worry too much," I reassured her, but she could see through my facade. Her gaze dared me to lie.
I knew this was coming. Nichole always had a way of prying things out of me. She had been my rock through thick and thin, so I had no choice but to spill the beans.
"I saw him," I finally admitted.
"Who?!" Nic asked, curiosity dripping from her voice.
"Who else?" I replied, my voice heavy with frustration.
"Ryan?! What the fuck is he doing in Miami? Don't tell me that asshole has been stalking you all this time. Wait! How the hell did he know where you are??" Nic's reaction shocked me. Her words were supportive, but also dramatic, making me roll my eyes.
"We both know he wouldn't come all the way from New York to Miami for me. That only happens in movies."
"Are you saying that because you think you're not worth it, huh? For the right person, you're worth so much more than any crap he ever gave you. Why do you keep bringing yourself down for an asshole like him?" Nic's words hit me hard, a mix of tough love and unwavering support.
"He's not stalking me, Nic... he's actually the new shareholder that Mark mentioned! Can you believe I didn't figure it out sooner?"
"Did he see you?" Nic asked, moving closer and holding my hands.
"Yeah, we saw each other... all those memories of him that I've been trying so hard to forget are flooding back. I'm sorry, Nic, but you know how much I'm scared of him ever finding out about 'Harry' you know how much my son meant to me. And with him coming back into my life, everything just doesn't feel right.
Nic She hugged me, so tight, and said, 'First of all, stop running into people and make up your mind, bestie. This isn't a healing conversation. These thoughts need the right answers. Sit alone and let the pain come to you. Think about what you and your son really deserve. A person who loves you can never hurt his mum. Accept it, tell your mind why you can't say the truth. Make a mindset of not going back to the one who hurts you. Calm down every negative thought.' And while going through this process, she told me to stop taking advice from people, not even from her. She told me to listen to my heart, girl. And then she left me all alone in the kitchen."
*********
I quickly retreated to my room, feeling the need to call my boss and apologize for what had happened the previous day. I dialed his number, and after what felt like an eternity, he finally answered.
"Kylie," his voice was cold and distant. I could tell he was not pleased with me.
"Can I please explain myself?" I said calmly, hoping to salvage the situation.
"I WANT YOU IN THE OFFICE NOW," he barked, cutting me off before I could finish my sentence. And with that, he abruptly hung up on me.
I couldn't believe it. Was he kidding me? I didn't even get a chance to properly talk to him!
Just then, Nic appeared by the door, concern etched on her face. "Mark?" she asked, her voice filled with worry.
"Who else?" I replied, frustration evident in my tone as I opened the drawer and grabbed my purse.
"Where to?" Nic inquired, offering her support.
"The office. Mark wants me there now," I sighed, feeling like I had no choice but to comply.
"And you're going?" Nic asked, her eyes filled with concern.
"Do I have a choice, girl?" I replied, a hint of resignation in my voice.
"Do you want me to come with you?" she offered, her loyalty shining through.
"No, thank you. Just take care of my baby, please," I said, giving her a grateful hug before heading out.
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HATRED (series 2#)
Romance"He-hello?" Hello sweetie. W-who a..am I talking to? Kylie asked KYLIE!!! Ryan shouted She tremble in fear. She heard Ryan calling her name, I can hear his voice behind me. fear makes me run even faster He was chasing after me, shouting like crazy...
