Chapter 1 Fresh Start
BECCA'S POV
The sweet air of Atlanta hit me as I hit the ground.
It smelled like freedom and I had to admit, it was. This was my fresh start. Going through the normal security check at the airport, I took my suitcases and walked towards the exit, all the time admiring the beauty of the place. This was one of the biggest airports I've ever seen.
Well, if we added the one back home, then this was the second airport I'd ever seen. I hadn't left my hometown since I was born. But now, I had no choice.
I needed a fresh start.
Once outside the airport, I flagged a taxi. It stopped and the driver poked his head out from the driver's seat. He was an older man, not more than 50 and he had a warm smile.
“Where to, miss?” He asked politely.
“Weaver Avenue, Sir.” I replied, giving him the name of my new address. He nodded and I entered the back seat after putting my suitcase in my car.
Then, he drove off. I had to admit, Atlanta was a beautiful city. There were tall skyscrapers, different expensive boutiques and restaurants. Even companies filled the city.
Before leaving my hometown, I had applied for a job as a personal secretary at Simmons Conglomerate Inc., one of the top companies in the state and I got accepted.
Getting accepted was the best part because I didn't have to struggle for a meal or where to live. And this new job took me as far away as it could from Asher, my abusive ex and the main reason I left my hometown, seeking a fresh start.
Just the thought of him sent shivers down my body, not in a good way and I almost puked inside the taxi. Luckily, I restrained myself. I didn't want to ruin the nice man's car. He looked at me through the rearview mirror.
“You okay , Miss?” He asked and I managed a small smile.
“Yeah, I'm just feeling under the weather.” I told him.
“First time away from home, I presume?” I nodded slowly.
“How did you know?” I asked him, genuinely curious.
“Because you've been staring at the city since you got into my taxi. And I deduced that you're either a tourist or you landed a huge opportunity you just couldn't say no to. So which one is it?”
“Huge opportunity, I guess.”
“Ahh, that explains it. Well, Atlanta is a wonderful city. Spent my whole life here and I wouldn't be anywhere else in the world.”
“Nowhere beats home, huh?" I asked him and he nodded.
“Nowhere at all, my dear.” He replied, turning his eyes away from me. We sat in comfortable silence until he pulled up at the place I now called home.
“This is Weaver Street, Miss. What number is yours?”
“Number 20, Sir.” I replied and he nodded, driving through the quiet street and stopping directly at my new home. When I talked to the agent that got me this apartment, I told him I wanted somewhere peaceful and I was glad he got this place for me.
I stepped out of the vehicle and I saw that the driver had already brought out my suitcase.
“Thank you, Sir.”
“Not a problem, Miss.” I quickly paid him, leaving him a tip and watched as he said thank you and drove off, leaving me to my fresh start.
I walked towards the house, turned the keys the agent had mailed to me and the door opened. Once inside, I had a good look at the apartment.
It's a charming one-bedroom apartment that I felt was perfect. The living area features a comfortable sofa and a TV, while the kitchenette is equipped with essentials for simple meals.
The bedroom is a serene space with a plush bed, closet, and soft lighting. Despite its small size, the apartment feels warm and inviting, making it an ideal haven for relaxation and rest.
I quickly got to work sorting out my clothes. Once I was done, I went into the kitchen and then realized I hadn't had the chance to shop for groceries yet.
So I ordered takeout. It would do for now. I at least had coffee I took from home. I'd use that in the morning. I checked the time to see that it was almost 8pm. I needed to sleep since I'd have to leave the house early to get to the company.
I couldn't be late on my first day.
I stripped out of my clothes, entered the bathroom for a quick shower. I let the water soak my brown curly hair, and cascade down my back.
Once I was done showering, I slipped into my robe and then my door bell rang.
“I'm coming.” I yelled. I hurried to the door, opened it and took the food from the delivery guy.
Thank you.” I said, paying him and taking the food inside. It didn't take me long to finish the food which consisted of chips, fried chicken, a latte and some ketchup.
After I was done eating, I moved to my bedroom and got into bed. I had a long day tomorrow and I smiled from how far I've come.
I was free at last.
With a smile on my face, I slept off, dreaming of a pleasant day at work.
Morning came quicker than I expected. I was dressed immaculately. A white blouse with a blue skirt and some heels. I pulled my hair up in a ponytail and did minimal make-up.
When I was satisfied with my reflection, I left the house and hailed a cab.
“Simmons Conglomerate, please.” I told the young cab driver who just nodded and drove off. The drive was silent plus it made me realize that the place wasn't that far from my home. I decided I'd walk down everyday in order to save some cash.
Once we got there, I paid the driver and stepped out of the cab. I was stunned with how massive and beautiful the company was. I put on my most composed attitude and walked towards the building.
There, I walked straight to the receptionist. She was a young girl, probably in her early 20’s. When she saw me, she smiled at me.
“Good morning. Welcome to Simmons Conglomerate Inc. How may I help you?” She asked politely.
“My name is Becca Charles. Today is my first day of work.” I said, smiling softly.
“Oh, Miss Rebecca. So nice to finally have you join us. Please, come with me.” She said, leading me towards an elevator. We stepped in and she pushed the 30th floor.
“Your office is on the 30th floor since you will be assisting our boss, Miss Becca.” I simply nodded as she led the way. Once the elevator came to a stop, we walked out and she escorted me to my office.
On our way, we met some other employees who just said hello and walked off. I spotted a coffee maker, thanking God silently for that. I'd need it.
Suddenly, the receptionist, who I now knew was named Mary by her name tag, stopped.
“Good morning Mr. Simmons.” She greeted me. That was my boss's name. I quickly turned and came face to face with dark brown familiar eyes.
Oh My God, it was the douchebag from that night at the club. I saw his eyes flick with recognition and then a stupid smirk etched his face.
Mr. Douchebag was actually Mark Simmons, my new boss.
I was in so much trouble.