CHAPTER TWENTY-ONE

Abby

Every seat in the conference room is filled. I can’t believe I’m standing in front of my coworkers, about to co-present a workshop, yet here I am. I try not to yawn since I barely slept last night. But the adrenaline surging through my body should keep me going. This meeting needs to go well.

As I scan my coworkers’ faces, my heart races. Some appear curious, others look bored, and a few are not happy to be here. I take a deep breath, reminding myself of what John and I are doing. This is our chance to set things right at the office.

“Good morning, everyone.” My voice sounds steadier than I feel, and my smile doesn’t waver, making me proud. I’m fighting back, not only for my relationship, but also for a better working environment. “Thank you for coming to our first team-building exercise.”

A few mutters ripple through the crowd. Sarah rolls her eyes. A part of me wants to be surprised, but I’m more hurt after learning my friendly coworker, who always wanted to chat with me, is the ringleader of the office gossipers.

I can ignore her and everyone else. Too much is riding on the meeting to be distracted.

“Today, our focus is on effective communication and breaking down barriers,” I add. “Let’s start with an icebreaker.”

John comes up and stands beside me. His presence immediately reassures me. “We call this game Two Truths and a Lie. Everyone will share three statements about themselves. Two should be true, and one should be false. The group guesses which is the lie.”

The collective groan from the audience is resounding, but I press on. “I’ll go first to demonstrate. One: I once won a hot- dog eating contest. Two: I’m deathly afraid of butterflies. Three: I have a cat named Powerfluff.”

The room buzzes with speculation. Finally, Mark from IT pipes up. “The hot dog contest has to be the lie. There’s no way you could eat that much.”

Others nod as if Mark has picked the lie.

Shaking my head, I pat my stomach. “Actually, that one’s true. I did that in college, and I still regret it.”

Laughter ripples through the room, and some tension dissipates. That’s progress, so I press on. “The lie was about being afraid of butterflies. Though, I’m not particularly fond of moths.”

I shiver for effect, and that brings a few more laughs.

As we move through the exercise, everyone loosens up. Even Sarah smiles when we learn quiet, unassuming Dave from HR used to be in a punk rock band.

When John’s turn comes around, he clears his throat. “Okay, here goes. One: I’m colorblind. Two: I once accidentally set my kitchen on fire trying to make pasta. Three: My family owns this company.”

The room falls silent. Finally, Lisa from marketing speaks up. “The company one has to be the lie, right? I mean, we’d know if that were true.”

Everyone else except me nods.

John shakes his head, a wry smile on his face. “Actually, that’s true. My maternal grandfather founded the company, though I don’t advertise it.”

A deafening silence follows. Everyone’s faces are shocked. A few people whisper to the person sitting next to them.

Satisfaction flows through me. I shouldn’t gloat, but a part of me is pleased by my coworkers’ reactions. I hope this teaches them a lesson.

Sarah stands, her face flushed. “Are you some sort of undercover boss like on that TV show?”

“Not at all,” John says. “I earned my position on my own merits, not because of my family.”

I step up, sensing the need to redirect. “The point of this exercise isn’t only to share surprising facts about ourselves. We wanted to show there’s more to a person than what you see. We all have pasts and even present situations that shape who we are, and jumping to conclusions about someone without knowing the full picture can lead to…misunderstandings.”

The room goes quiet again, and people exchange glances and whispers.

“That explains why the betting pool on when Abby gets fired is off, huh?” Dave from HR speaks up.

“Yes, but isn’t that something HR should’ve put a stop to if they knew about it?” John asks.

Dave turns red. “Uh, I… Yes.”

At least that’s something, but I need to say more. “Just so everyone is clear, I knew about that bet, and it hurt. I considered many of you friends. But I’ve been applying for other jobs.”

Silence and shamed looks fill the room. Most stare at their laps or the ground. No one meets my eyes.

“No one wins the pool if I quit,” I add.

Laughter erupts. Even I laugh, though I’m still hurt at the reminder of how some people see me by dating John.

“I hope you all didn’t lose too much money on that one,” John says. “But I would’ve assumed this office was more professional and would know how wrong a bet like that is, especially when Abby is the top financial consultant at the firm. Do you think her clients will stay with us if she leaves?”

The laughter and smiles stop.

“I won’t tolerate bullying of Abby or anyone at this office,” John adds. “I realize I’ve been unapproachable, and that’s why I want to do the town hall and suggestion box in case you aren’t ready to discuss issues with me one on one. But please know I have an open-door policy now, and you can always come talk to me about work or interpersonal issues, because I don’t want anyone feeling uncomfortable here.”

People glance at each other with surprised expressions. I’m shocked, too, but I’m also filled with pride. I had no idea John would say all that, but I see he wants to learn and change to be the best boss possible. I look at him to see he’s staring at me. I smile and wish I could hug him, but that can come later.

“Now, let’s discuss what many of you might be wondering about,” I say, ready to get this over with. “Mr. Barrington and I are dating. Our relationship didn’t start until after I received my promotion. And no, our dating has not and will not affect our professional conduct or decision-making.”

The room goes silent again, but thoughtful expressions replace the skeptical ones this time.

“Abby and I understand our relationship may raise concerns,” John adds. “That’s why we wanted to be transparent and open this dialogue. Headquarters knows we’re dating. That’s why Abby no longer reports to me. You have my word that we’re committed to maintaining a fair and professional work environment.”

I nod, grateful for his support. “Which brings us to our next exercise: open communication.”

We spend the next hour guiding the team through various communication exercises, encouraging them to express concerns and ideas openly. People slowly open up to each other, but when they do, we hear frustrations about the break room coffee machine and suggestions for improving interdepartmental collaboration.

As we wrap up, the room’s energy has shifted to a cautious optimism.

“Before we end,” John says, “I want to implement an anonymous suggestion box in the break room and hold monthly town hall meetings to openly address concerns and ideas.”

People nod, and tension unexpectedly releases from my shoulders. Only time will tell if what we’ve shared here today works, but it’s a start.

“Maybe they’re not so bad after all,” Melanie says, walking out of the conference room.

“I can’t believe I never knew about John’s family,” another voice chimes in. “Makes you wonder what else we don’t know about each other.”

I try not to grin, since they aren’t speaking directly to me, but the point we wanted to make has hit home. I catch John’s gaze, and we share small, triumphant smiles. I hope this is the first step toward progress, because I never want to choose between my job and being with him. Thinking about how I felt when I didn’t see another choice makes my stomach churn.

* * *

That afternoon, I sit at my desk, ensuring a new client’s account is set up correctly. A knock sounds at my door. “Come in.”

Sarah opens the door but doesn’t come in all the way. “Got a minute?”

I nod, gesturing for her to come in. “What’s up?”

She finally enters and sits, fidgeting with the hem of her blouse. “I-I want to apologize for what I said about you and John. It wasn’t fair, and I’m sorry.”

I’m taken aback by her sincerity. “Thank you. I appreciate it and accept your apology.”

She nods, still looking uncomfortable. “I guess I was jealous. It was easier to assume the worse than to admit maybe you just worked harder than me to get the promotion.”

Sarah moved from client services to accounting after I was promoted. The exercises we did today have given me more insight into why she did that, but I didn’t know the real reason until now.

I offer her a small smile. “Thanks for telling me why, but what matters is how we move forward from this.”

She hesitantly returns the smile. “So, um, maybe we could grab coffee sometime? Get to know each other better?”

A warmth spreads through my chest. I can’t wait to tell John our plan is working, and I hope he’s as happy as I am. “I’d like that. How about tomorrow morning?”

She nods, the lines on her face relaxing. “Sounds great. And, uh, for what it’s worth, you and John seem good together.”

I wiggle my toes. “Thank you.”

As Sarah leaves my office, a sense of accomplishment makes me sit taller. She’s only one person, but we’re headed in the right direction. I want it to continue.

* * *

The week flies by in a whirlwind of client meetings and more team-building exercises. A few people test my patience, but I understand we’re hitting them with a lot quickly.

By Friday afternoon, I can’t stop yawning, and even my feet hurt, which makes no sense since I sat most of the day. But I’ve been doing more than my usual responsibilities this week, so that might explain it. The tiredness and soreness are worth it. The office morale and atmosphere have improved. The best part? People are talking, not gossiping and cracking jokes about the now-defunct betting pool.

As I pack my things, John pokes his head into my office. “Got a minute?”

“For you, take as long as you need.” My pulse kicks up a notch. “What’s up?”

He enters and closes the door behind him, suggesting that whatever he has to say is either serious or personal—maybe both. “After working so hard this week, we deserve a celebration.”

A celebration? A thrill shoots through me. “Do you have something in mind?”

“I do.” He leans against my desk, and it’s all I can do not to reach out and touch him, but even with the door closed, the office isn’t the place to show affection. “I made a reservation at that new rooftop restaurant downtown. I’ve heard it has a killer view of the east side.”

My mouth gapes. “No way. Rachel said that place is impossible to get into. How did you manage a reservation?”

He grins, looking pleased with himself. “Let’s just say being the boss’s grandson has its perks sometimes.”

“You name-dropped.”

“Maybe.”

I laugh. “You’re incorrigible, you know that?”

“Is that a yes for tonight?”

I pretend to consider his invitation when I can’t wait to go there. “Well, I suppose I could be persuaded to join you for dinner at an impossibly exclusive restaurant with breathtaking views.”

John’s grin widens. “Pick you up at seven?”

I nod, unable to keep the smile off my face. “It’s a date.”

As John leaves, I lean back in my chair and twirl around. That’s my favorite part of my office—they have chairs that swirl, while the ones in cubicles don’t. I’ve heard things happen for a reason, but I’ve never bought into that thinking, based on my parents and my sister. Maybe I should.

I wouldn’t change anything about this rollercoaster of a week. John and I have faced challenges head-on, and we seem stronger and more connected. I’m no relationship expert, but I think that bodes well for the future.

It’s not that I’m trying to think that far ahead, but being with John brings back much of the dream of having a husband and children that I buried after Jake.

I finish gathering my things and head out, already trying to figure out what to wear tonight.

As I pass Sarah’s desk, she waves. “Have a great weekend, Abby.”

“You too. See you on Monday.”

Outside, I take a deep breath. The air is cold, but I feel lighter than I have in days.

Walking to my car, I hear my phone buzz with a text notification. I glance at the screen before I open the driver’s-side door.

John: Can’t wait for tonight. Couldn’t have gotten through this week without you.

I smile, even though without me, he wouldn’t have had to face anything this week, and reply.

Me: Right back at you. We make a good team, don’t we?

His response arrives almost immediately.

John: The best team. See you at 7.

As I tuck my phone away, my heart is full. This week has been a turning point. I went from shutting down and needing to quit to wanting to fight. Maybe that’s why my family treated me the way they did—I just took it and never fought back. Well, not until Christmas Day when I finally spoke up to Rachel, and that still felt good. Maybe that’s why I found the strength to stay and do whatever it took this week to create a more open, understanding workplace, and to be honest, I’m proud of the part I played.

I glimpse my reflection in the rearview mirror as I enter my car. I almost don’t recognize myself. The sparkle in my eyes wasn’t there before Christmas, but it’s not only that. I’m more confident and thankful for John’s role in making me feel my worth. He’s shown me respect and made me feel cherished in such a short time. I have no doubt Grandpa would have loved him.

I drive home. As usual, traffic to the west side is heavy, but it doesn’t take me long. This is good since I want plenty of time to prepare for my date tonight.

Powerfluff greets me at my apartment door with an impatient meow, reminding me that, no matter how much things change, her demand for dinner remains constant.

As I feed Powerfluff, I tell her about my date tonight. She’s more interested in food being put into her bowl, but occasionally she glances at me. “You can help me get ready after you finish your dinner.”

As I search my closet, I decide to wear my favorite dress. It’s black and simple and fits me like a dream. No boots are necessary, even though the temperature is cold; since the hotel should have underground parking, I won’t have to walk far. High heels make my legs look great, but they don’t perform well in the winter. I apply my makeup and then brush my hair.

Looking good .

My phone buzzes with another text.

John: I may have a surprise for you tonight. Nothing big, but a little something.

My heart flutters with anticipation. I reply:

Me: I love your surprises, but you know you don’t have to do that, right? Being with you is enough. Though, I’d never say no to dessert.

I don’t know what kind of surprise he could’ve come up with so quickly, but dessert would be nice. Another text arrives.

John: I know, but where’s the fun in that? Besides, you deserve to be spoiled. See you soon!

Since Grandpa died, I’ve stopped being spoiled, but I could get used to it again. As I wait for John to arrive, I play with Powerfluff. “I’m so happy things worked out the way they have.”

My cat tries to catch the feathers at the end of my stick.

“I’ve learned not to let my first impression or second or tenth make me judge someone.”

Powerfluff pounces on the feathers, but I’m too quick, so she misses catching it. She meows.

“Keep trying, sweetie.”

She does.

“Good girl. I’m not giving up, either.” I always thought I deserved better but did nothing about feeling that way. No more.

I move the stick slower so Powerfluff can catch the feathers.

The doorbell rings, and I nearly break out in a dance. “Mama loves you, pretty girl. See you later.”

I put away the cat toy, where Powerfluff can’t reach it, blow her a kiss, and skip to the door. I can’t wait to find out what my surprise is.