Chapter 45
Aria’s POV
I move swiftly down the halls of the office, the buzz of noise flashing by me. It’s comforting, like the hum of a well-oiled machine.
I’m back, fully recovered and ready to dive headfirst into work. The major race is looming on the horizon, and I’m determined to prove myself, not just to my team but to myself as well.
“Aria!” Jackson calls out as soon as I walk in. He’s already in racing gear, his face flushed with excitement. “We’ve got a team meeting in ten. Can you help me go over some last-minute strategies?”
“Absolutely,” I reply, my pulse quickening. It feels good to be needed, to be in control.
I walk over to the whiteboard, where various notes and diagrams from previous meetings are scattered. I pick up a marker and begin outlining our plan.
In the meeting room, the atmosphere is charged. Team members mill about, glancing at the clock, each one eager for the race.
I can sense the competitive energy buzzing in the air. When I take my seat at the head of the table, I can feel their eyes on me, waiting for direction.
“Alright, team,” I start, drawing in a breath. “I’ve been thinking about Jackson’s performance. I believe we can give him a serious edge if we adjust our approach.”
Skepticism ripples through the group, but I stand firm.
“I know you’ve all seen him race, and I respect your opinions, but hear me out. I propose we tweak the pit stop strategy. Instead of going with the standard three-tire change, let’s consider doing two tires and a quick fuel top-up. It’ll cut down on time significantly and allow Jackson to keep his momentum.”
“Are you sure about that?” one of the engineers asks, raising an eyebrow. “It could backfire if we don’t get the timing right.”
“Trust me,” I reply, confidence pouring from me. “Jackson is quick on his feet, and this will give him an opportunity to push ahead while the other drivers are still fumbling in the pits. He can take the lead when it counts.”
There’s a moment of silence, tension thick in the air as the higher-ups exchange glances. I can see doubt flickering in their eyes, but my determination is unshakeable.
Finally, the team leader nods. “Alright, let’s give it a shot. We’re all in on this plan, Aria.”
“Thank you! Jackson, are you ready?” I turn to him, and he’s nodding vigorously.
“Let’s do this!” he exclaims.
The day of the race arrives, and the adrenaline thrums through my veins as I watch the team execute our strategy. The sound of engines roaring to life fills the air, and I can feel the excitement building.
Jackson is in his element, and I can see his focus sharpen as he grips the wheel.
During the race, I stay glued to my radio, relaying information back and forth.
“Jackson, keep your speed steady! Remember our strategy for the pits!” My heart races as I listen to his responses, and when the moment comes for the pit stop, I hold my breath.
“Two tires and fuel!” I yell into the mic, my voice firm.
The crew moves like a well-rehearsed dance, and as Jackson pulls in, I can’t help but feel a rush of pride.
The stop goes flawlessly; in just under ten seconds, he’s back on the track.
“Let’s go!” I shout, fists pumping in the air as Jackson accelerates ahead. He overtakes the competition, and my chest swells with exhilaration.
As the race continues, I can see the rival team’s manager scowling from the sidelines. When Jackson crosses the finish line in first place, I can’t contain my joy.
The team erupts in cheers, and I bask in the energy.
“Great job, everyone!” I shout, hugging Jackson. “You killed it out there!”
“Couldn’t have done it without you, Aria,” he replies, beaming with pride.
Just then, I spot the rival team’s manager coming over, a smug look on his face. “Impressive tactics, Aria. Didn’t think you had it in you.”
“Glad you noticed,” I shoot back, my confidence soaring.
Later that day, I return to my apartment, still buzzing from the race. The taste of victory lingers in the air, and I can’t wait to share the news with Isabel.
As I step inside, though, my excitement is short-lived.
There, on my doorstep, stands Logan, flowers in hand. My heart sinks.
“Aria,” he starts, looking genuinely remorseful. “I wanted to apologize.”
“Logan, now isn’t a good time,” I say, trying to push past him. But he blocks the door, his eyes pleading.
“Please, just hear me out. When we started seeing each other, I used our relationship as a way to get back at Liam for overshadowing me professionally. It was immature, and I was wrong. But my feelings for you grew real over time,” he admits, his voice low.
I fold my arms, anger bubbling up inside me. “You think that makes it okay? You used me to get at Liam. How am I supposed to trust anything about our relationship was honest? I thought I could move past it, but your antics last weekend showed he’s still in your head.”
“Understand that I made a mistake, but I truly care for you now. I want to make it up to you, starting right now.”
I can feel my emotions swirling. I’m furious with him, but there’s a part of me that’s conflicted. Did he really mean what he said?
“Logan, I can’t do this right now. You need to leave,” I say firmly, trying to keep my voice steady.
“Aria, please!” he begs, stepping closer, but I take a step back, shaking my head.
“No! I’m done listening to your excuses. You need to go.” I can feel my heart racing as I speak, frustration boiling over.
“Just give me a chance to prove myself!” he pleads, his desperation apparent.
“Prove yourself? How can I believe anything you say? You lied to me before!” I yell, feeling the weight of his betrayal.
In a sudden surge of anger, I slam the door shut, my heart pounding in my chest. I lean against the door, breathless, wrestling with the turmoil inside me.
Part of me is still angry, but another part of me can’t help but wonder if his feelings are genuine.
I stand there for a moment, staring at the door, my emotions churning. I can’t afford to get wrapped up in Logan’s drama again, not when I’m finally finding my footing at work and in my life.
Just as I begin to feel the panic rise, my phone buzzes on the counter, and I grab it, desperate for a distraction.
It’s a message from Jackson: Great race today! Thanks for everything. Can’t wait for the next one!
I smile, allowing a little light back into my heart. Jackson’s support reminds me of why I’m here—to push forward, to make a name for myself, and to be strong despite everything swirling around me.
I take a deep breath, shaking off the chaos of the day. Logan’s words may linger in my mind, but I can’t let them pull me under.
I have work to do, and I refuse to let distractions derail my progress. I’m going to rise above it all, and I won’t let anyone—or anything—stand in my way.
