Unsatisfying Rejection

As a year passed, Edward noticed that Alayna still remained guarded about her personal life and didn't discuss her family with anyone, including him. Despite that, he and Alayna grew closer and started having lunch together in the hospital's cafeteria. Edward found himself falling in love with her, but he was hesitant to confess his feelings. He was still unsure if Alayna was married or in a committed relationship, and he didn't want to risk losing their friendship by making assumptions or misjudging her situation. He cherished the bond they had developed and didn't want to jeopardize it, so he continued to keep his feelings to himself, even though it was challenging to suppress his emotions.

During a lunch together, Edward mustered up the courage to ask Alayna if she could spare some time on the weekend to accompany him to his favorite art exhibition. However, Alayna politely declined, mentioning that her weekends were typically packed with commitments. Undeterred, Edward expressed his curiosity about Alayna's personal life since he had met her. To his surprise, Alayna agreed to his request and told him he could ask whatever questions he had in mind. Edward felt a mix of nervousness and excitement, as he contemplated what to ask, eager to learn more about Alayna beyond their work interactions.

Edward finally mustered up the courage to ask Alayna if she was single. She didn't expect him to ask such a question because she didn't like anyone being interested in her life. She dismissed his question saying they are not close enough to be asking such questions. They are colleagues, he shouldn't ruin it.

She felt angry and left her work earlier and went home. Edward didn't understand what made her that angry, he called her to apologize for the rude question, but she didn't answer the phone. Alayna called her friends and told them what happened to her.

Blayke told her that she had met Edward a year ago, and he asked her the same question, which means that he is interested in her. Alayna told her friends that she is not looking for a relationship and after what he did today, she will not talk to him. Blayke asked her why she won't give him a chance to prove himself. Alayna told them that she had no time for such things. She has a career and a kid to care for. The next morning, Edward eagerly waited for Alayna in front of the elevator that she took every day, hoping to catch her and apologize for his previous behavior. However, when Alayna spotted him, she quickly changed her route and took a different elevator, avoiding him intentionally. Edward felt disheartened, but he understood that she needed her space.

Throughout the day, Edward tried multiple times to approach Alayna and talk to her, but she ignored him and kept herself busy with work. He realized that his attempts to apologize were not being well-received, and he felt a sense of disappointment. He couldn't understand why she was avoiding him and why she seemed disinterested in resolving the issue.

Feeling determined to make things right, Edward decided to take a different approach. He ordered a bouquet of flowers and went to Alayna's room. When she saw him standing there with the bouquet, she hesitated to enter her room. Alayna finally stepped out and told Edward that she was not interested in pursuing a romantic relationship with him. She explained that their working relationship was important to her, and his persistent attempts to apologize were making her uncomfortable.

Edward felt a mix of disappointment and understanding. He respected Alayna's boundaries and assured her that he would not pursue a romantic relationship if she was not interested. He sincerely apologized for his behavior and expressed his desire to mend their professional relationship. He also acknowledged that he had been curious about her reasons for avoiding him and was willing to listen if she wanted to share.

Alayna appreciated Edward's sincerity and thanked him for respecting her boundaries. She explained that she was going through a difficult time in her personal life and did not want any additional trouble at work. Edward listened attentively and expressed his empathy. He assured her that he would be professional and respectful towards her in the workplace.

As time passed, Edward observed that Alayna's brother and friends were the only ones who visited her. This made him realize that she may be going through some personal challenges that she didn't feel comfortable sharing with others. He decided to offer his support as a colleague and a friend, without any expectations or romantic intentions.