Life in the Friend Zone

Chapter 10- It's not always about me

I was in an exceptionally good mood when I got to work the following week, everything was looking up, and for once in my life I could genuinely say I was happy.

My relationship with Alex was beyond great, well, even better since I finally found out what he was hiding-his adorable little angel, Gabriella- so now I could freely visit him at any time, it was more of a two-way street now.

I greeted everyone with a warm smile, which seemed rather shocking to some of my employees who had witnessed my numerous bad days, especially when my father paid me surprise visits. But not even my father could ruin my good mood.

Just as I settled down in my office, ready to call my secretary in so she could give me my itinerary for the day, my phone started ringing.

I answered it without checking the caller ID. “Emily Taylor, good morning.” I was in full on business mode.

“Em,” her voice cracked on the other end of the line, “I-I really need a friend right now.”

Too many things were going through my mind. Firstly, I remembered all the drama from the previous week- Rachel had a fling of sorts with my cousin Jason, but then got engaged to another man- secondly I felt horrible because I had not been there for Jason or Rachel.

I had been so selfish and caught up in my own world and in my own happiness that I neglected two very important people to me when they needed me most. And now Rachel was reaching out to me, and I remained silent, again, caught up in my own thoughts.

“Of course sweety. I’m so sorry for not being there for you this past week Rach.” I apologized sincerely. Rachel was one of my best friends, and she meant the world to me. I knew she wouldn’t go to Kimberly. Even though the three of us were best friends, they had always had trouble seeing eye to eye, but they agreed to disagree for the sake of their friendship.

“You can come to the office if you don't mind; I have a pile of work to get through today. Or I can come to your place this evening? Whatever works for you.” I was hoping she would chose the former, because it meant I would see her much sooner and I really wanted to be there for her.

“I’m already outside your building. I was hoping you’d say yes,” she sniffled, “But I can’t risk seeing him Em, not after what I did.” She choked out. Clearly she was crying.

“I understand honey, but you don’t have to worry, Jason won’t be in the office today, so you can come right up.”

She agreed and hung up. I decided not to start with my work immediately because I needed to give Rachel my full attention. Instead I thought about Jason and how I had really neglected him this past week. I needed to make it up to him somehow.

My PA opened the door for Rachel and I smiled at her and thanked her. Rachel stood awkwardly at the door, probably debating on whether to approach me or not. I opened my arms and gestured her to come to me.

She looked relieved as she walked up to me and I gave her a hug. I pulled back and held her at arm’s length, “Are you alright?” I asked.