His Reluctant Wife

Beep! beep! beep! The shrill alarm clock jolted you from sleep. Another day. Another struggle to balance work, motherhood, and the constant weight of past events. You dragged yourself out of bed, the image of your son, Peter, providing the only motivation you needed. After the usual morning routine – coaxing Peter awake, preparing breakfast, rushing to get ready – you dropped him off at kind Mrs. Trent's.

Arriving at the departmental store where you work, a wave of relief washed over you – you weren't late. This job, though barely enough, was all you had after your former boss ensured you couldn't get work elsewhere. You settled into your routine, the dullness of the job a stark contrast to the constant anxiety churning within you. Everything changed when your coworker informed you the boss needed to see you. A knot of panic tightened in your chest. Why now? Steeling yourself, you walked towards the office, knocked, and opened the door. Your breath hitched. Sitting there, chatting with your boss as if they were old friends, was the last person you ever expected to see: Alexander Laurent.