AllFreeNovel
Share Us
While stunned, Sofie didn’t want to convey that she was surprised. Thinking fast, she replied, “Oh, um yeah, I actually can’t make it. My, um, my mom is really sick.” As Sofie spoke, it felt as though she was in a nightmare. Not only had Gabriella banished her to an isolated office, but she had kept the gala event from Sofie, instead asking the receptionist to accompany her.
“Oh goodness, I’m so sorry to hear that! Well, I hope she feels better soon,” the receptionist replied warmly, unaware of Sofie’s hurt feelings. “Sorry, I didn’t ask. Did you need anything from me?”
Sofie mashed her lips together, trying not to cry. Shaking her head back and forth, she murmured. “No, I’m fine. I’m going to head back to my office now. I just wanted to say hi.” Feigning a smile, Sofie shuffled down the hall as tears formed in her eyes.
Sofie arrived at her office just in time; she shut the door and began to cry. She felt utterly betrayed by Gabriella and hurt that the receptionist accompanied Gabriella to the gala. As much as she had tried to make this new arrangement work, Sofie wascompletely miserable, and in a fit of emotion, she decided to craft her resignation to Ms. Galena.
Good afternoon.
After much consideration, I’ve decided it would be best for me to leave Deluxe Redux Magazine. I have greatly appreciated all of the experience you have provided, and it was an honor to work as your assistant.
But the time has come for me to move on to new endeavors. My resignation is effective immediately. I will be leaving the office at four p.m. today.
Sincerely,
Sofie Rosswell.
23
Gabriella Galena pulled the curtain back, gazing out of the large bay window in her penthouse. It was three p.m.; typically, she would enjoy lunch at her desk, brought in by the lovely Sofie. But for the past four days, Gabriella remained home alone after deciding to take a week away from work.
Upon receiving Sofie’s resignation, she was stunned. It had been unbearable for her too, working together, but the thought of never seeing Sofie again, broke Gabriella’s heart. However, in the recesses of her mind, Gabriella realized it was her fault; her harsh attitude finally took a toll on Sofie.What have I done? I’ve pushed away the most beautiful and caring person; Sofie was a true gem. How did I not appreciate her enough? This is all my fault.
Gabriella was racked with guilt and shame. Even while at the gala with the beautiful Evangeline, Gabriella couldn’t concentrate on her surroundings. While she had initially wanted to bring Sofie, upon hearing Sofie’s confession of her feelings, Gabriella thought it might be best not to lead Sofie on, thus deciding at the last minute to bring Evangeline. But uponreflection, Gabriella realized it was a selfish and cruel move, especially after banishing Sofie to another office.
The truth was that Sofie’s confession had terrified Gabriella because she had also developed feelings towards Sofie.
I love her.
But due to the betrayal of her ex-wife, the messy divorce, and the pressure from the magazine, Gabriella imploded. Now was no time for love for her. Was she even capable of love anymore? It had become easier for her to react dismissively and cruelly rather than examine her own feelings and show vulnerability to Sofie.
“Wow, you really fucked up this time. There is no way she is going to forgive you.” Gabriella shook her head, muttering to herself. “And with another leave under my belt, I’m sure Tempest Rutherford will further her conservative influence over the magazine.” She felt as though her career was ending, and Gabriella had never felt more alone, confused, and regretful over her behavior; Sofie’s resignation was a sign that Gabriella had gone too far.
Suddenly, she heard the buzzer announcing Blair’s arrival. Her friend had asked Gabriella to have lunch this week, but Gabriella didn’t want to be in public at the moment. Instead, she asked Blair to join her at the penthouse, where the friends could enjoy privacy on the outdoor patio. Quickly, she moved from the view to greet Blair at the front door.
“Hey! How are you doing?” Blair Cunningham was exquisitely dressed as usual. Her crisp dress shirt was paired well with a jaunty necktie. While Gabriella’s preference had always been toward femme women, she was always so impressed by Blair’s impeccable, masc-presenting style.
Embracing her friend, Gabriella replied, “Ugh, not great, to be honest. This is the fourth day I’ve been miserable and alone athome.” Gratefully, she added, “Thanks for coming over. I really needed to talk to you today.”
“Of course, no problem! And look, I brought us a surprise.” Blair held up a large paper bag. “I picked us up some sushi from Yubari Suki; I know it’s your favorite.”
“Oh, thank you! I had no energy to cook, so I figured we could order takeout when you arrived. But this is perfect.” Gabriella took the bag from Blair’s grip, guiding them towards the terrace. “It’s another beautiful day, so I thought we could eat outside.”
The women sauntered to the patio as the afternoon sun provided a golden hue.
Gabriella remembered the last time she was out here with Sofie. They had spent the most perfect day together, and now, panged with guilt, Gabriella realized that ruined everything between them. She wanted to be a lively host to Blair, but inside, Gabriella was racked with grief.I’m never going to see Sofie again!
As the women settled into their patio seats, Blair looked intently at Gabriella. “So, what is going on? I still don’t understand why you took a week away from work; you just returned from your leave three months ago.”
Sighing, Gabriella rubbed her temples. “I’ve been having some issues with my assistant. I told you about her the last time we met up. Things have becometensewith us, and last week, Sofie quit the magazine.”
“Oh no, that’s awful! I thought you and her were getting along at work and personally. What happened?” Blair asked as she removed the sushi containers from the large paper bag. “I hadn’t seen you so happy inyears.”
Gabriella paused, her heart aching upon hearing Blair’s words. It was true; Sofie had made her feel calm, relaxed, and joyous. She almost felt embarrassed sharing the story, but Blairwas her best friend, and Gabriella knew she could trust her confidence.
“So, one night when Sofie and I were in bed, she revealed that she had strong feelings and asked if I would consider having a real relationship with her.” Gabriella leaned in across the table from Blair. “Now,you knowhow much the idea of falling for someone and dating themterrifies me—especially because of everything that happened between your sister and my ex-wife. My trust is completely gone. Sure, I can enjoy dalliances with cute women sometimes, but I can’t give my heart away again; I just can’t.” Gabriella shook her head as tears formed in her eyes.
Blair nodded with understanding. “Of course, I know how much Madison’s betrayal affected you. And I’m still not talking to Lauren, either. So, then, what happened?”
