Chapter 50 50 Chapter 50 - Forgiven Not Forgotten Monica's POV The conference room felt like a trap waiting to spring. I scanned the faces around the table, my heart hammering against my ribs. Besides my current boss Mr. Sebastian, the room contained Natalie, Mr. Louis, Morris, Darren, Jason, Paula, and Harris. A reunion I never asked for. I caught Natalie's eye, hoping for some explanation, but she gave a subtle shrug. Clearly, she was as blindsided as I was. Mr. Louis gestured toward an empty chair next to Morris, and I felt my stomach clench. Seriously? The suspicion that this entire meeting was Morris's elaborate scheme to corner me flashed through my mind. There was no way he genuinely wanted to purchase our system. Still, I would maintain absolute professionalism. At minimum, my boss would witness my capabilities. "Monica, I understand this might be uncomfortable," Grady said, his voice gentle but firm. "I requested your presence because your previous employment at Group Lorenzo gives you unique insight into their current challenges." I straightened my spine. "Of course, sir. I'm happy to contribute however I can." The words came out smoother than I felt as I slid into the designated seat. Mr. Sebastian launched into his presentation of our software solution, with me chiming in at strategic moments. Despite my personal discomfort, we established a seamless rhythm that impressed everyone present. Our collaboration felt natural, our explanations complementing each other perfectly. When we opened the floor for questions, I fielded each inquiry with confidence while my bosses exchanged satisfied glances. Morris remained uncharacteristically quiet, his intense gaze studying me before turning to his team members, silently seeking their assessment. "I'm impressed, Morris, Harris declared decisively. "The security features are exactly what we need. This system should be implemented immediately." "Agreed," Darren added. "Grady, I had no idea your company had developed something this sophisticated." - Morris leaned forward, his business persona fully engaged that commanding presence that still affected me more than I cared to admit. "Grady, send over the final proposal, and we'll proceed with the acquisition." Natalie distributed folders containing the proposal details, and remarkably, they reached an immédiate decision. All that remained was eming the service contract the following week. As the meeting concluded, the atmosphere shifted from formal to friendly. Former colleagues approached me with hugs and warm greetings, expressing how much they missed me. Morrist 1/3 50 Chapter 50-Forgiven Not Forgotten. remained seated, observing the interactions without approaching. Jason pulled me aside, speaking in hushed tones. "Monica, you're coming to Paula's farewell celebration tomorrow, right?" "I'm really going to miss her, I admitted, genuine sadness washing over me. "We all will. The good news is they've arranged for her to visit monthly. Nobody at the company can function without Paula for long." Jason smiled. "You and Natalie are already on the guest list. Attendance is mandatory." I shook my head firmly. "I can't, Jason. I won't set foot in that building again. I don't need another humiliating exit." "Who would dare throw you out?" Jason looked genuinely confused. "Everything's been clarified. They should never have questioned your loyalty in the first place." "It might seem resolved to you," I whispered, fighting back tears. "But Morris's treatment and Darren's accusatory glare that day cut deeper than you know. I can't revisit that pain." "Listen, beautiful, I've already given Darren hell for not defending you. And Morris?" Jason rolled his eyes. "But this is for Paula. She needs you there." "I'll consider it," I conceded reluctantly. "I miss our lunch conversations, you know, You've been a true friend through everything" "Then let's revive our lunch tradition!" Jason's face brightened. "Saturday works for me. My wife is dying to meet you she's equally furious with those two idiots." "One of those idiots would like a moment to apologize, Darren interrupted, appearing behind. me. Jason squeezed my shoulder supportively before departing. "Darren, this really isn't necessary," I said quickly. "Yes, it absolutely is. His expression was earnest. "I offered you friendship, then abandoned you when accusations flew. I was a complete jerk "Look, I understand you received information that implicated me. It's disappointing your accepted it as fact without investigation, but I get it. Your loyalty to Morris runs deep - he's practically your brother" "Supporting Morris doesn't justify acting unjustly," Darren countered. "I should have followed. Paula, Jason, and Harris's example they never questioned your integrity for a second." "Let's just move forward, Darren. You've already cleared things up. It's in the past." "It matters to me," he insisted. "I need your forgiveness. I'm truly sorry" "Fine, Darren. You're forgiven. Please stop beating yourself up," I said, hoping to end the conversation. 50 Chapter 50 - Forgiven Not Forgotten Darren's face lit up. "Excellent! So you'll attend Paula's celebration tomorrow and consider returning to the company?" "Absolutely not. I'm never setting foot in that building again, I stated with finality. Darren's brow furrowed. "But you just said you forgave me." "I've put it behind me and harbor no resentment. That doesn't mean I need to return to a toxic environment." "So I need to grovel more thoroughly?" he asked, half-joking. "No groveling necessary. We're fine, Darren. Really" "We'll win you back eventually, he said with a confident wink. "On another note, I brought your final paycheck. You earned it fair and square. I shook my head emphatically. "I won't accept that money. Please don't insist - I want nothing from any of you. Let's not create another uncomfortable situation." "That's pride talking, Monica, Darren sighed. "You're entitled to it, of course. I'm sorry things deteriorated so badly our fault entirely. But we're committed to making amends. And somehow, we'll convince you to return." Darren tucked the check into his inner jacket pocket with a smile before departing. Despite myself, I found his persistence oddly endearing and returned his smile with a small one of my In "A Relationship Kept in The Dark" by CrushReel, the storyline unfolds as renowned photographer Jane finds herself drawn to the charismatic rookie model, Hector. Little does she know that Hector harbors a secret—he is actually the heir to a powerful business empire. As their romance blossoms, Hector grapples with concealing his true identity to capture Jane's heart. However, their love story takes a tumultuous turn when jealousy rears its ugly head, threatening to unravel the delicate balance they've built. This modern romance novel delves into themes of hidden identities, unexpected love, and the complexities of maintaining a relationship shrouded in secrecy. With its blend of sweet romance and suspenseful twists, "A Relationship Kept in The Dark" stands out for its exploration of hidden feelings and the consequences of revealing long-held secrets. For readers seeking a captivating tale that combines elements of romance, intrigue, and emotional depth, this ongoing story is available to read at CrushReel. Immerse yourself in the world of Jane and Hector as their journey unfolds against the backdrop of hidden truths and heartfelt revelations.