Flying off on vacation with her boss’s husband, the happy woman waited for him at the airport. Suddenly, a fortune teller touched her hand…
Contract for a year, work in Europe. Congratulations,» Emily said sincerely. «That’s a great opportunity.»
«Did you accept?» «Still thinking,» Michael replied. It means moving to another country, starting from scratch. Not sure if I’m ready for such changes.
Emily understood his doubts. After everything, starting a new life in a new place would be logical. But leaving everything familiar and dear, heading into the unknown—required courage.
«And you?» Michael asked. «Any plans for the future?» Emily pondered. The last months she’d lived day by day, not making long-term plans.
Work, home, rare meetings with friends. Her life was calm but somehow incomplete. «Don’t know,» she honestly replied.
«Like the job, but something’s missing.» «Maybe change?» «Maybe new goals?» Michael looked at her attentively. «You know,» he said, pausing, «I could recommend you to this international company for opportunities there.
They’re looking not only for consultants but also financial analysts with auditing experience.» «Your profile would be ideal.» Emily raised her eyebrows in surprise.
«You’re suggesting I go to Europe with you?» «Not exactly,» Michael shook his head. «I’m suggesting you consider a good career opportunity.» «Whether we go together or separately is another question.»
Emily looked at him, trying to sort her feelings. Part of her still loved Michael, despite all the complications and deceit. Another part feared trusting him again, feared repeating past mistakes.
«I’ll think about it,» she finally said. «It’s a serious decision, can’t be made on impulse.» Michael nodded, understanding her caution.
«Of course.» «You have until the end of the month to decide.» «I can send your resume, and then it’s up to you.»
They continued talking, discussing the upcoming trial and other topics. After the cafe, Michael walked Emily home; she finally decided to return to her apartment after Paul assured her the danger had passed. «Thanks for the meeting,» he said, stopping at the entrance.
«And think about the offer.» «It’s really a good opportunity, regardless of…» «Us.» Emily nodded.
«I’ll think.» «Really.» «And thanks for suggesting.»
They said goodbye, and Emily went up to her apartment. Sitting on the couch, she pondered Michael’s offer. «Move to Europe—new job, new life.»
It was tempting. Especially now, when so many memories and associations tied her to this city, to Apex Commerce Inc., to the story of deceit and betrayal. But was she ready to work near Michael again? See him every day, collaborate with him? And most importantly, was she ready to trust him again? Emily went to the window and looked at the city bathed in autumn gold.
So much had happened in the last six months. So many shocks, discoveries, changes. She was no longer that naive Emily who planned a vacation with her boss’s husband.
She’d become stronger, wiser, more cautious. Perhaps that’s why she could now make a decision based not on emotions, but on sober calculation and self-understanding. Emily took her phone and dialed Michael’s number.
«I think,» she said. «When he answered, I’d like to learn more about this company and opportunities there. You can send them my resume.»
Of course, Michael’s voice had a smile. «I’ll do it today.» But, Emily added, this doesn’t mean that we.
That we’ll be together again. «I’m still not sure about that.» «I understand,» Michael replied.
«And I respect your decision. Whatever you choose, I’ll support you.» They said goodbye, and Emily put down the phone.
She felt a strange calm and confidence. For the first time in a long time, she looked to the future with hope, not fear. Life went on, despite all the shocks and disappointments.
And who knows, maybe the new page of this life would be brighter and happier than the previous one. Maybe all these trials were needed to lead her to true happiness. Emily smiled and opened the window, letting in fresh autumn air and city sounds.
She was ready for new beginnings, new challenges. Ready to write her story further—without lies and manipulations. Her own story, where she decides what to do and who to trust.
And though this story was just beginning, Emily felt it would be much happier than the previous one. Because now she knew the price of truth and believed in herself more than ever.
