HIS WOMAN| J.JK

Chapter 11

Yn

I sat perched on the edge of my book counter, the smooth surface cool against my skin as I gazed out at the rows of shelves filled with books. The familiar scent of old paper and ink enveloped me, a comforting aroma that never failed to bring me solace. This small book store was my haven, a place where I could escape into worlds crafted by words and imagination.

But today, my sanctuary was tainted by a different kind of reality—one filled with regret and uncertainty. The decision I had made the previous day weighed heavily on my mind, casting a shadow over the familiar surroundings. Instead of heeding my parents' wishes and joining my father's struggling company, I had followed my heart and opened this humble book store.

While it brought me immense happiness to be surrounded by stories and ideas, I couldn't shake the guilt that gnawed at me. Every time I thought about my dad's struggles with funds and investors, a pang of remorse shot through me like a bolt of lightning. I should have been there for him, should have taken the practical route and contributed to the family business.

But in my pursuit of personal joy, I had inadvertently caused them pain. The weight of that realisation settled like a heavy stone in my chest, making it difficult to breathe. The quiet of the store was a stark contrast to the turmoil within me, and I found myself lost in a sea of conflicting emotions.

As I sat contemplating the weight of my decision, the familiar scents of cakes and flowers began to mingle with the comforting aroma of old paper and ink in my book store. Lost in my thoughts, I didn't notice Nick and Steve approaching until they placed a tray of cakes and a bouquet of flowers in front of me. Their gesture of kindness brought a bittersweet smile to my lips, a fleeting moment of respite from the turmoil within.

"Hey, we noticed you've been a bit down lately," Nick said, his voice filled with genuine concern as he exchanged a meaningful look with Steve.

Steve nodded in agreement. "Yeah, we thought these might cheer you up a bit," he added, gesturing to the treats before me with a warm smile.

I looked at them, touched by their thoughtfulness. The cakes were adorned with colourful frosting, and the flowers were a vibrant mix of roses and lilies. It was a simple yet heartfelt gesture that spoke volumes about the depth of our friendship.

"Thank you," I murmured, my voice choked with emotion. "It means a lot."

Nick and Steve exchanged a knowing glance, their eyes reflecting understanding and support. "Anytime, buddy," Nick replied, patting my shoulder reassuringly.

Steve nodded in agreement. "We're here for you, no matter what," he added, his sincerity evident in his tone.

As I reached for a slice of cake, I couldn't help but feel a sense of gratitude for their presence in my life. In that moment, surrounded by friends and the comforting embrace of familiar scents, I found a glimmer of hope amidst the turmoil. It was a reminder that even in the darkest of times, kindness and friendship could light the way forward.

I was lost in the quiet ambiance of my bookshop, the familiar scent of old books and the soft murmur of customers creating a soothing background melody. The peacefulness was abruptly shattered by the sudden entrance of Ella, her energy bursting into the space like a whirlwind.

"Babe, you won't believe what I got!" Ella exclaimed, her voice slicing through the calm atmosphere like a sharp knife.

Startled by her exuberance, I nearly choked on the bite of cake I had just taken. Steve, always quick to sense a situation, handed me a water bottle, which I grabbed and chugged down heavily, trying to compose myself amidst Ella's animated energy.