Beyond the Divorce

It had been a while since I'd properly worked, so I arrived at the office early the next day.

To my surprise, Carol was already there, tidying up my office. When I entered, she exclaimed, "Chloe, you're back? I missed you so much!"

"Yeah, I'm back." I stepped in with a refreshing smile, feeling a weight lifted off my shoulders.

"Did everything go smoothly?" she asked, then chuckled. "I guess that's a redundant question. I can tell from your expression that things went well." "You're sharp. Bring me the proposal for old Bourdamun that Ryan prepared. I'm back to work properly this time."

As soon as I said that, I realized it might be too early for me to be sure of that.

"Oh..." I coughed awkwardly, trying to cover up, "Um... I'll have to leave again on Wednesday."

Carol looked at me with a knowing smile. "Do you have to go to Gerby again?"

"How do you know everything?" I glanced at her and nodded. "Yes, I have to go again. Good things must be seen through to the end."

Carol gave me a thumbs up and smiled, "That's right, it's your call. I'll get the documents for you right away."

I relaxed into my chair, enjoying the

me to roll

as possible to finalize some project details so I wouldn't have to postpone things again on Wednesday. Just as I picked up the phone, it started ringing. It was Poppy calling. I wondered why she had taken

I answered

you in

I'm here," I

be able to catch up due to your busy schedule. You

and said into the phone with a smile, "You're actually late. Atticus

"Oh? Really?"

must go out of town on Wednesday, so

tonight?" she

she clinging to me? It seemed like she couldn't bear to be

afraid I won't be able to make it if you're not in

been away from Foswood for a while, and many things have piled up. I've scheduled everything tightly for today and tomorrow. Do you have something important to