Elsa's POV:
The sound of my alarm clock rang sharply at 6 a.m. I stretched my hands lazily as I turned it off, the early morning light sneaking through the curtains and casting faint shadows on my bedroom wall. I yawned, feeling the heaviness of fatigue cling to me, and pushed myself out of bed. Sitting upright, I glanced at the calendar stuck on my wall—Monday morning again. The thought alone was enough to make my chest tighten.
All I could think about was how exhausting the day was going to be—especially since I'd have to face Mr. Daniels and his perpetually annoying face. The man was like a cloud on a sunny day, always looming and ready to rain down criticism. I sighed, trying to shake the heaviness settling on my shoulders.
I stood up and padded softly to the bathroom. The cold tiles beneath my feet jolted me awake as I began my morning routine. When I finally finished and slipped into the clothes I had meticulously laid out the night before, I felt a brief moment of accomplishment. I made my way downstairs, the house still quiet except for the faint hum of the refrigerator.
In the kitchen, I brewed myself a cup of strong coffee—the bitter warmth was the only thing that could cut through my lingering tiredness. I cradled the mug in my hands and took a slow sip, trying to mentally prepare myself for the day ahead.
I'm Elsa Williams, a 23-year-old working woman trying to keep it together. About a year ago, I started working at K2 Groups, and somehow, I've earned a reputation as the most hardworking employee. But despite the accolades and the steady paycheck, there's a part of me that remains restless, unsatisfied.
Everything seemed perfect on the surface. After college, I landed a good job, moved out of my parents' house, and carved out my own little corner of the world. But beneath it all, I'm haunted by the past—those dark, confusing years of high school that I just can't seem to shake.
The five years after high school have been filled with more shadows than light. I planned everything meticulously, thinking success would erase the pain, but it hasn't. I find myself trapped in memories I want to forget but can't. Sometimes, I wish I could rewind to that year and fix the mistakes, undo the regrets. But life doesn't offer second chances like that, does it?
For now, the only thing I can truly focus on is my job. I don't have many friends or acquaintances—no romantic interests, either. It's just me and my family, a small support system I'm grateful for, even if I don't always show it.
After finishing my coffee, I grabbed my bag, threw on my coat, and headed out the door. The cold air hit my face as I got into my car and started the engine. Driving through the bustling city streets, I rehearsed what I needed to say at work, trying to push away the nerves knotting my stomach.
As usual, I was the first to arrive at the office. Working with the marketing team—undoubtedly the best team in the company—is both a blessing and a challenge. I've worked hard to earn that title, landing deals that boosted the company's profile and secured my place on the team.
Parking my car in the lot, I stepped out and took a deep breath. K2 Company is part of one of the largest corporations in New York, and working here means a serious paycheck—a far cry from my modest upbringing. My childhood dream was to become a medical doctor, but life's twists and turns had other plans for me.
I walked through the glass doors into the sleek, modern office and took my seat. The room was still mostly empty, save for the soft hum of computers booting up and the occasional creak of chairs. As always, I was the first one here. I settled in and began organizing my tasks for the day.
"Elsa," a gentle tap on my shoulder pulled me from my thoughts.
"Jeez, Elsa, I've been calling your name. Didn't you hear me?" Eunice, a coworker from the marketing team, smiled with a mix of concern and curiosity. "Are you okay?"
I blinked, startled, and turned to her. "Oh, hi, Miss Eunice. Sorry, my mind wasn't here. What did you say?" I forced a weak smile, hoping to hide the storm inside.
Eunice gave me a knowing look. "You've been standing in front of the vending machine for a while now. I was just asking if you could move so I could get a drink."
I hadn't realized how long I'd been lost in thought, standing there like a statue. Flushing slightly, I stepped aside quickly.
"I'm so sorry."
Eunice leaned against the counter, sipping her canned coffee. "You know, since I joined this team six months ago, I've noticed you're always alone. Either lost in your thoughts like now or so focused on work that you don't notice the people around you."
I looked down at my wristwatch, grateful for the distraction. "Oh, look at the time—it's almost time for the meeting."
"See you inside," I said quickly, turning to leave before Eunice could press further.
"Wait—"
But before she could say more, I had already disappeared into the hallway, my heart pounding.