Becomes

Chapter 0103

Bill’s POV

I sit in the backseat of my car, staring blankly out the window. How could one of the happiest days of my life turn into an absolute nightmare by the end?

Everything was going well. The baby’s check–up, the plans we were making – I thought Serena and I were finally on the same page.

But then Calvin had to show up and ruin everything.

Did Serena really cheat on me days before our divorce? Something feels off. If there’s one thing I learned during our marriage, it’s to never trust other people’s stories before hearing hers.

I remember she injured her ankle the day of the dinner. She couldn’t possibly have slept with someone in that condition, right?

One thing I know for sure: Calvin is a snake and I’ve lost all respect for him.

I can’t stop thinking about whether the baby is mine. But even if I’m not sure, I’m going to be there for Serena.

Right now, I just need to focus on work. I lean forward, feeling the cool leather of the seat beneath me, and tap on the partition.

“Tyler,” I say, “take me to the office instead.” The driver nods, and I settle back, trying to clear my mind.

When I arrive at the office, the lobby is quiet, a big change from the usual daytime rush. The overhead lights cast a clean glow on the polished marble floors. Only a few people are around, their footsteps echoing softly in the spacious atrium.

A security guard nods at me from his post, and a janitor slowly mops the floor.

I head to the elevators, the soft chime of the arriving lift breaking the stillness. As the doors slide open, I step inside, the weight of the day pressing heavily on my shoulders.

As I walk into the office, Sarah greets me with a tired “Good evening, boss.” Her voice lacks its usual energy, and I notice the weariness in her eyes.

“You’re still here,” I say. “You should be home by now.”

“I can’t,” Sarah replies with a sigh. “I’m still finishing up the end–of–month reports for the Johnsons.”

“Speaking of the Johnsons, have you shown them our projections for Project Alpha?” I ask.

While on our way to see Serena’s OB–GYN, I sent clear instructions to Sarah on how to handle the clients if I couldn’t make it to the meeting.

Sarah nods. “Yes, I showed them the projections. They had a few questions, but I think we addressed all their concerns.”

“Did they seem satisfied with the projections?” I ask, watching her closely.

Chapter 0103

+25 BONUS

Sarah nods. “Yes, they’re very happy with it,” she says, a small smile breaking through her tired expression.

Sarah’s always been reliable, but it’s clear she’s burning the candle at both ends. I need to find a way to lighten her load before she burns out completely.

“Sarah, do you need anything? Maybe we should consider hiring someone to help you out,” I suggest, concerned.

“Yes, actually, that would be really helpful. It’s been a bit overwhelming lately,” she replies.

“Done. Anything else?” I ask, wanting to ensure she has everything she needs to lighten her load.

“A raise wouldn’t hurt,” she says, a hint of humor in her tone.

“Hm.” I say, considering her request. “I’ll offer something much better. How would you like to have Doris’s old job?”

Sarah looks at me, shocked. “A–are you sure? I don’t think I’m qualified.”

“Don’t say that,” I reply. “You’ve been working here for three years. You know this place inside and out.” Sarah takes a moment, then nods. “Okay, I’ll do it.” But as soon as she agrees, doubt flickers across her

face.

“What’s wrong?” I ask, concern creasing my brow as I study her face.

Sarah hesitates, then says, “I still need guidance until I get the hang of things. I remember Doris giving a lot of presentations to clients and shareholders. I’m not that confident yet.”

I offer a reassuring smile. “You earned this promotion, Sarah. Of course, I’ll be here to guide you.”

Sarah’s shoulders relax slightly, and she lets out a small sigh of relief. “Thank you, Bill. That means a lot,”

she says.

I realize how valuable Sarah is to the team. She’s dedicated and hardworking – an asset I can’t afford to lose. Watching her, I understand the importance of finding balance in my own life.

I don’t care what Calvin says. I’m the father of Serena’s baby. Just as I need to support Sarah in her new role, I need to prove to Serena – and to myself – that I am reliable and can handle both responsibilities.