Hadley Marshall stood by the roadside, feeling as if an invisible weight had settled on her heart. In her hand was a suitcase, holding the promise of escape from all she had known. Josiah Marshall stepped forward and hailed a cab, which glided smoothly to a halt beside them.

"Hadley?" Josiah called to his daughter, who seemed lost in thought.

"I'm coming, Dad."

River Marshall picked up Hadley's suitcase and brought it closer to the car, while Josiah arranged it in the trunk.

As Hadley opened the car door, she bid farewell to her parents, "Alright. Dad, Mom, you should head home now. I can take the cab straight to the airport."

Josiah nodded, a heavy guilt evident in his expression, "I know things have been tough for you, but it'll get better. Some time away might help. Please remember to call us often."

River's eyes glistened with unshed tears as she clasped Hadley's hand and slipped a check into her palm. "You've never traveled this far on your own. This check is yours, for emergencies. Stay safe out there."

Hadley looked down at the check, her hands shaking slightly as she accepted it without a word.

Once inside the car, she managed a faint smile for her parents, "I will. You should head back."

The car rolled forward, the scenery outside the window blurring as it passed. Hadley gazed at two items in her hand: a check given to her by Coleson Reynolds’ mother and a plane ticket to the UK, courtesy of Emir Holmes.

For a moment, it felt as though her heart was crushed beneath the weight of a mountain. The car turned onto the road leading to the airport.

Hadley leaned forward slightly and spoke to the driver, "Excuse me, could you take me to the bus station instead of the airport?"

The middle-aged driver glanced at the road, then nodded, "Sure thing."

She sank back into her seat, her mind replaying Emir's words, ‘If you're set on ending things with him, cut ties completely. Don’t meet again. Travel or move abroad—it'll hurt less. I’m heading to the UK office tomorrow. Here’s a plane ticket. I’m not pressuring you; I just hope you’ll give me a chance. I hope you’ll come with me.’

Hadley stared at the car ceiling blankly. She knew she could never love Emir. She couldn't offer him the hope he sought. Thus, she had to leave—leave New York, leave Emir, and leave Coleson Reynolds.

Coleson, the one who had always tugged at her heart, bringing both pain and yearning. But despite her longing, there was nothing left for her to do. She had tried, fought, and now, she was utterly spent, incapable of holding onto anything any longer.

Her phone rang, Coleson's name flashing across the screen. As always, whenever he crossed her mind or someone mentioned him, he seemed to appear.

Her body trembled, her exhausted fingers reluctantly answering the call.

His voice came through, fraught with anxiety, "What do you think you're doing without my say-so? Where are you going?"

Hadley exhaled deeply, attempting to quell the storm within, "We've broken up. My plans are none of your concern."

"I haven’t accepted it! You don’t get to call quits on your own. Tell me, where are you now?"

"What good would it do to tell you?" she countered.

"There are too many misunderstandings between us. I need to see you immediately!" Coleson's voice carried urgency.

Hadley sighed, her voice softening, "Let it be. It's truly over. Meeting again won't change anything. Being with you is draining. I've decided to go to the UK with Emir."

"You wouldn't dare. I refuse to give up," he declared, igniting a pang of guilt within her. Through the call, she could hear the rush of wind and blaring car horns, testament to Coleson's reckless speed.

Hadley said wearily, "Stop me if you can. I’m on my way to the airport now."

"No matter what you think, I won't let go!"

"Fine, let's see if fate has other plans."

As Coleson continued speaking, Hadley no longer had the strength to listen. Her hand fell limply to her side, the phone still held within it.

Fate, such a fickle force, seemed absent between them. Unable to hold back any longer, tears traced paths down her face as she leaned forward, resting her head on her knees, sobbing quietly.

The cab carried on toward the bus station, drawing Hadley further away from a love that had once seemed true...

The cozy indoor restaurant exuded a quiet elegance. Hadley Marshall, with her long, slightly wavy hair, wore a light peach dress that complemented her fair skin. She glanced at her watch now and then, rhythmically tapping her index finger on the white floral tablecloth. After what felt like forever, the person she was waiting for finally showed up.

Eloise Cunningham, her hair tied up, hadn't changed out of her flight attendant uniform. She approached Hadley's table with an apologetic smile and took a seat. "Sorry, work held me up a bit. Have you been waiting long?"

Hadley shook her head. "No worries. Waiting for a beauty like you is hardly a chore."

Eloise quickly touched up her makeup, resting her elbow on the table as she leaned forward to ask, "So, how's the new job treating you?"

Hadley made an okay gesture, radiating confidence. "Another day of doing nothing—it’s like paradise. Thanks for tipping me off about this great gig at the company. I'm treating you to lunch today, order anything you want."

Hadley called over a server, but Eloise didn't even glance at the menu and just ordered an iced coffee instead.

Hadley lightly objected, "Eloise, I really want to thank you with a proper meal. My salary’s double now, so don’t worry about the cost."

Eloise shook her phone lightly. "It's not about saving your money; I just don't have time. I got a message about a last-minute flight change. I need to head back soon."

"Always on the go," Hadley said, resigned, and ordered a drink for herself as well.

Eloise smiled and asked, "So, with your job going so well, Emir must be looking out for you, right?"

Hadley rolled her eyes and sighed, "What are you getting at now?"

Seeing her expression, Eloise couldn't help but laugh. "Okay, okay, I'll drop it."

Emir Holmes, Hadley’s direct boss and Eloise’s occasional acquaintance, had needed an administrative assistant at the prestigious company just when Hadley was between jobs. Eloise, being a good friend, connected them. Given Emir's charming demeanor and integrity, Eloise secretly hoped something more might develop between the two.

Eloise suddenly noticed someone familiar enter the restaurant, discomfort flashing across her face as she tried to hide.

Hadley picked up on Eloise's unease and glanced over to see a couple passing by. The man wore a sleek gray leather jacket and sunglasses, his sharp features, particularly his strong nose and confident thin lips, catching her eye. He was with a cute, fresh-faced woman, heading to a table by the window, drawing attention from other diners.

"Do you know them?" Hadley inquired.

Eloise glanced at them from the corner of her eye before coolly shaking her head. "No, I don't."

"Liar," Hadley teased. "Your face says otherwise. What's the deal?" She paused, then added mischievously, "You must know the guy, right?"

The server brought their drinks, and Eloise took a sip, deciding there was no harm in sharing. "It's not much of a story. His name's Coleson Reynolds. Met him on a flight; he asked for my number and we went out a few times. He was supposed to meet me today, but..." Eloise gestured discreetly toward the couple.

Hadley's eyes widened. "Is he playing you?"

Eloise brushed her hair behind her ear. "Just a few dinners. I don't really know much about him, his background, or his job. I thought I’d give it a shot, but realizing he's the type to play around doesn’t sit well with me."

Hadley knew Eloise's personality well; she was never one to react hastily or get easily upset. In Hadley’s eyes, Eloise epitomized grace and elegance.

"He’s clearly messing with your feelings. Just look at him—a classic player," Hadley said irritably, casting a disdainful glance toward Coleson at the window. The topic struck a nerve with Hadley due to a painful experience in college, leaving her particularly sensitive to such matters.

Eloise, wanting to calm things down, said, "I'm done with him anyway. He probably doesn't even remember me now. I should get back to the airport."

"Wait, doesn’t remember?" Hadley was incredulous for a moment before a cunning idea sparked. She smirked, "Eloise, you've helped me find a great job, let me return the favor. I'll teach that philandering man a lesson."

With that, Hadley was on the move. Eloise made a half-hearted attempt to stop her, but Hadley was already heading toward Coleson's table. Coleson and his companion were engaged in light conversation, the woman bubbling with enthusiasm.

"Can't believe you love this artist's work, too! My favorite piece of his is his breakthrough illustration. It’s so atmospheric, inspiring my own love for painting," she gushed.

Coleson, flashing his charming smile, replied, "I happen to know his work will be auctioned in Paris. Since you like it so much, I'll get it for you next time we meet."

Hadley approached, listening in on their superficial exchange. She deduced they weren't deeply acquainted and that this woman was probably his latest interest. Without missing a beat, Hadley pulled out a chair and sat down at their table.

Coleson looked startled, as did his companion.

With a determined expression, Hadley accused, "She’s pregnant, and you're still out here with other women? Are you ever going to take responsibility and marry her?"

Coleson was taken aback, asking instinctively, "Who... are you?"

He blinked in confusion; though he'd encountered many women, each left an impression. Yet the strikingly unfamiliar woman before him, with her unique aura and unknown face, was a mystery.

Hadley Marshall continued her performance, claiming, "I'm her close friend. We just met yesterday. You promised her you'd be faithful and marry her. And now you've completely forgotten about her? She's poured her heart and soul into you, and she's even expecting your child. Is this how you repay her?" Hadley finished, still unsatisfied, and turned to the calm, refined woman sitting nearby, exclaiming, "Honey, don't waste your time with a guy like him. He's just a smooth talker who's only out for himself and won't settle down."

Coleson Reynolds jumped up, furiously responding, "Where did you come from, you crazy woman? What nonsense are you spouting? Who is 'she' exactly? Tell me!"

Before Coleson could finish, a splash of wine hit him square in the face. The elegant woman, now holding an empty glass with a serene expression, looked at him and said, "I don't want to see you again." With that, she turned and left.

Hadley was momentarily stunned by the boldness of someone so composed. But seeing her plan succeed, she thought it was best to make a quiet exit. Just as she started to back away, Coleson grabbed her wrist firmly, "Caused a scene, and now you're trying to bail?"

Her wrist ached from his grip. Hearing his words, Hadley was even more eager to leave. She put on a look of feigned innocence, "Getting defensive, are we? Going to hit me? Once you do, your chances with that lady are gone for good." Hadley pointed at the woman walking away.

Coleson, clearly not pleased, released her hand and moved to try to explain himself to the woman. This gave Hadley the perfect chance to slip away.

Coleson caught up to the woman, desperately trying to explain. Seeing she had no intention of stopping, he grew anxious, "Mia, wait. Listen to me, I don't even know her. Don't believe—"

The woman he called 'Mia' stopped abruptly, fixing him with a direct gaze, "My name is Lynn, not Mia."

Coleson was momentarily speechless, then quickly corrected himself, "Yes, yes, Lynn. That woman confused me completely. I'm sorry. But you have to believe me..." He placed his hands on her shoulders, trying to make her stay and listen.

To his surprise, she easily pushed him away and slapped him hard across the face. The sharp sound of the slap was impossible to ignore, drawing the attention of everyone around.

The woman spoke slowly and calmly, "I don't know why you know my friend's name, and frankly, I don't care. I was testing you earlier—my name isn't Lynn. After all this time together, you didn't even remember my name, proving just how unreliable you are."

She stepped around Coleson and left the restaurant swiftly, her steps full of anger.

Coleson gritted his teeth, pacing a few steps where he stood, and angrily undid the button on his jacket. He had never been in such a situation before. Today was turning out to be a disaster, with someone unexpectedly throwing a wrench into his plans.

He fumed internally, hoping he wouldn't find out who that crazy woman was. Or else... Just as he was about to leave, he felt something under his foot. Coleson moved his foot to find an employee badge on the floor. He bent down, long fingers picking it up, and read aloud softly, "Reynolds Industries, Design Department Assistant, Hadley Marshall. Well... isn't that interesting." His smile turned more mischievous.

The sun shone brightly, and a cool breeze wafted gently through the streets.

Hadley arrived at the company entrance, only to realize she had forgotten her employee badge. She didn't have time to go home and retrieve it, but without the badge, security wouldn't let her in.

Reynolds Industries had thousands of employees across various departments, and security didn't recognize each one, especially the lower-level staff.

Emir Holmes' car was parked a short distance away. Hadley walked over to him, "Sorry, Mr. Holmes, I think I left my badge at home. I'll have to tag along with you inside."

Emir smiled warmly, "Try not to be so forgetful next time. Let’s go."

Hadley nodded, and they walked toward the company together. Emir wore a tailored black suit, his athletic build accentuated by the impeccable fit. His hair was neatly parted, and his features sharp. When Hadley first met him, she thought it was a shame he hadn't pursued a career as a model.

After arriving at the office, Emir received a phone call and subsequently instructed Hadley to organize a quick meeting.

"The main focus of this meeting is that Reynolds Industries will soon welcome a new, highly talented CEO. The administration has informed us that the CEO's office will be located within our design department. Today, there will be personnel arriving to make the necessary rearrangements to our office space. I hope everyone can proceed with their tasks smoothly, despite the changes. Also, ensure that all design department data remains confidential. Any questions?" Emir always kept his meetings concise and to the point. "If not, let's get back to work."

Shortly after the meeting concluded, the renovation team arrived.

As they began inspecting and replacing some software systems and electrical appliances, the team had to turn off part of the main power. The air conditioning was off for just a short while, making the office stuffy and uncomfortable. The noise from the renovation added to the discomfort.

Hadley used a piece of paper to fan herself as she headed to the café to collect her now-cool coffee. She walked back to her desk, sipping her drink.

Emir’s office was a closed space, lacking airflow, so he came to the shared office area to cool down. He was absorbed in reviewing design plans, unaware of the renovation workers carrying a large painting behind him. The workers couldn't see him from the other side.

Hadley quickly reached out and pulled Emir to the side, "Mr. Holmes, mind stepping aside?"

Though she didn't use much force, the unexpected pull caused Emir to lose balance momentarily and bump into Hadley's shoulder.

"Ah!" The coffee Hadley had cooled spilled all over her white shirt.

"Are you alright?" Emir quickly steadied himself and helped her.

Hadley wiped at the coffee stain, "I'm fine. Thankfully, the coffee was cold."

Emir found some tissues on the table and handed them to her, "Here you go."

She took them and attempted to wipe the stains, but it was useless, "This isn't working. I better go to the restroom and clean up."

Emir watched her as she walked toward the restroom, checking his watch.

When Hadley emerged from the restroom, as Emir expected, the stain on her shirt was lighter in color but had spread further.