chapter 1

A single ray of sunlight peeked through the window curtain, gently touching Timika's face. She opened her eyes, then closed them again, enjoying the familiar smell of aftershave and tobacco in the air. The scent was strong, but comforting, like a warm hug she was used to. When she tried to get up, she felt a gentle pressure on her waist, reminding her of her partner's presence. Timika closed her eyes and wondered if she would ever get used to this part of their morning routine. The soft light and comforting smell made her feel warm and close to her partner, but the gentle pressure on her waist made her feel a bit trapped.

As Timika set the glasses on the table, she heard the familiar sound of footsteps coming closer. "Good morning," she whispered, watching him sit across from her, just like he did every morning.

"Good morning," he replied, flashing a warm smile that could make any woman's heart skip a beat. But for Timika, it was a smile she had seen every day for the past year, and it no longer had the same effect.

"Are you still in pain?" he asked, taking a sip of the warm milk she had poured for him. Timika's cheeks turned bright red as she nervously cleared her throat and shook her head.

"I took some medicine for my period," she replied, forcing a big bite of bacon into her mouth. "That's good," he said briefly, and they continued with their breakfast routine.

~that same day at the office~

Timika sat down restlessly on the sofa near the window in her office, her light brown eyes staring out the window at nothing in particular. Everything seemed so old and familiar, like a repetitive routine. She felt like she was stuck in a rut.

Just then, a slight knock came from the door, followed by a creak. A young, fair-skinned lady in a royal blue suit walked in, carrying an envelope. "Ms. Jones, we received an email from the landlord," she began, but Timika cut her off.

"Leave it on my desk," she said, still staring out the window. "And make me a hot black coffee." The assistant nodded and left, closing the door behind her.

As the door closed, Timika closed her eyes she was trying so hard not to think of her company recent failure in business,but it kept hauting her every moment,she couldn't shake it off, a new advertising company was launched and there seem to be more capable with their beautiful designs and Innovative strategies, making Timika's company look outdated and ineffective. She felt a pang of frustration and disappointment, wondering how she could turn things around ,to worse it all she owed alot of debts now ,she had to pay her workers the landlord and

The bank loan that was looming over her head like a dark cloud. Timika's mind was racing with thoughts of financial struggles and the weight of responsibility. She felt like she was drowning in a sea of debt and uncertainty. Just then, her assistant walked back in with a cup of steaming hot coffee and a curious expression. "Ms. Jones, I know this might not be the best time, but I have an idea that could help the company."

Timika raised an eyebrow, intrigued despite herself. "What is it?" she asked, taking a sip of her coffee.

The assistant hesitated, then blurted out, "I think we should partner with the new technology company,it was launched two days ago and so far has no advertising company."

Timika's eyes widened as she considered the idea. Partnering with a new technology company could be a bold move, but it could also be exactly what her company needed to stay relevant. She thought about the innovative strategies and fresh ideas that the new company could bring to the table. It was a risk, but it could be a game-changer.

"Tell me more," she said, her mind racing with possibilities.

The assistant smiled, "I knew you'd see it, Ms. Jones. We could offer them a collaboration, a joint project that showcases both our companies' strengths. We could help them with advertising and marketing, and they could help us with technology and innovation. It would be a win-win situation."

Timika nodded, determination etched on her face. "Let's do it. Let's make it happen." She took a deep breath, feeling a sense of hope that she hadn't felt in a long time. Maybe, just maybe, this was the start of something new, something that would bring her company back to life.

The assistant beamed, "I'll get in touch with them right away, Ms. Jones. I'll set up a meeting for tomorrow."

Timika nodded, feeling a sense of excitement and anticipation. She knew that this was a chance to turn things around, to prove to herself and everyone else that she still had what it took to succeed. She was ready to take on the challenge, to make it happen.

As the assistant left the room, Timika felt a sense of determination wash over her. She was going to make this work, no matter what it took. She was going to prove to herself and everyone else that she was still a force to be reckoned with. She was going to turn her company around, and she was going to make it thrive.

\*\*\*\*

At home

Timika took a deep breath a she soakes her whole body into the warm water,As she sank into the warm water, Timika felt her muscles relax and her mind unwind. The stress and anxiety of the day melted away, and she closed her eyes, letting out a gentle sigh. The water enveloped her like a warm hug, soothing her tired body and calming her racing thoughts. She felt her breath slow and deepen, and her mind began to quiet, like a still pond on a windless day.

As she lay there, Timika's thoughts turned to the conversation with her assistant earlier that day. She thought about the new technology company and the potential partnership. She thought about the possibilities and the risks. And she thought about her own determination and drive to succeed.

***Download NovelToon to enjoy a better reading experience!***