Hearts On The Horizon

stead of feeling rested, I felt like a bundle of nerves, my heart racing. It was my first official

look-business professional, sharp-but I still felt out of place. My mind was buzzing with

was still pretending to be someone I wasn't. I was a small-town girl who had earned a spot at one of the most prestigious hot

g by the conference table, a cup of coffee in

said. "Ready for yo

to shake off my n

ey all smiled and waved at me, welcoming me to the group. I couldn't help but feel like

me papers. His serious expression didn't change when he noticed me walking in. He just gave a small no

sn't looking at me directly. I knew he was still sizing me up

odernizing the hotel's operations and integrating new technology to improve customer experience. It was a huge task

stayed on track. He was sharp, driven, and didn't hesitate to call out anyone who seemed distracted. But what surprised me was

ng reports, the meeting finally came to an end. M

t out for you," he said with a grin.

e project? Would I be able to keep up with the high expectations? And what about Elliot? What did he really think of me? He hadn't said much, but I couldn't sha

o prove that I belonged here. But by the time I left the office, I felt exhausted, my mind spinning. I needed a break, some

ing the towering buildings, the bright neon signs, and the constant hum of life. I couldn't help but think about how far

could escape the pressures of the hotel and just enjoy the simple act of being in the momen

. I felt a presence behind me

li

ching me with a calm expression. I couldn't tell if he was surprised to

e smooth but guarded. "Did

ould be flattered or embarrassed. "E

should. Everyone needs a moment to clear their head. The wor

of where this was going. "Y

if you're serious about making a difference here, Clara, you're going to have to do mor

ilding on my shoulders once again. Was he testi

d began walking away, leaving me sta

going to make this easy for me. But

sun dipped below the horizon. Tomorrow would be another day.