"Why Her Over Me?"

The significance of the project was underscored as Mr. Rolland envisioned organizational recognition.

If we make this happen, our organization is going to be known," he emphasized, alluding to the prestigious "THE MEDIA STUDIOS ARENA." Kiara absorbed the weight of the moment, understanding the transformative potential of their endeavor.

With a final directive to discuss the project, Mr. Rolland concluded the meeting.

"Thank you, you may now take your leave, and make sure you both create time to discuss this," he instructed, granting Kiara the space to embark on the journey that lay ahead.

As she left the office, with the door closing behind her, Kiara carried with her a sense of purpose and the weight of a transformative collaboration.

Kiara strode purposefully towards her office, the weight of newfound responsibilities pressing on her mind.

Thoughts swirled around how she would manage the challenges ahead, especially with the unsettling prospect of working closely with someone she'd rather avoid.

Unbeknownst to her, Nolan approached, seeking her out. Spotting her emerging from the CEO's quarters, he eagerly waved and called out her name. However, Kiara, engrossed in her contemplations, remained oblivious to his attempts to capture her attention.

Undeterred, Nolan closed the distance, making a second attempt to break through her reverie.

With no response, he resorted to a more direct approach, clicking his fingers in front of her face. Startled, Kiara snapped back to the present, realizing Nolan was standing right in front of her.

"Oh, You!," she said, still shaking off the mental fog.

"Nolan!" He helped her remember his name.

"I've been calling out to you," he chuckled. "Where were your thoughts?"

"Apologies," Kiara replied, regaining her composure. "It's nothing."

Nolan, undeterred, shifted the conversation. "Have you finalized the date and time?"

"Can we make it tomorrow at lunchtime?" she suggested.

"Sure thing. 2 pm it is," he confirmed, a hint of anticipation in his voice.

"Great," Kiara giggled. "I need to work on something quickly."

"Alright, then. I'll take my leave," Nolan said. "But before that, we haven't exchanged contacts."

"Oh, right," Kiara acknowledged, handing her phone over to him as he punched his number into her phone.

---

Lora's demeanor was notably different as she aggressively dropped a file onto Kiara's desk. "This is from the production manager," she curtly declared. "You should go through it."

Kiara, taken aback by Lola's abruptness, could only nod in acknowledgment. As Lola exited, leaving an air of tension behind, Kiara pondered the unusual encounter, wondering why Lola hadn't opted for a more amicable exchange.

Lora, a stalwart at Starvision Studios, had always occupied the pinnacle of the organizational hierarchy.

Her reputation as the top staff, handling every high-standard project that graced the studio's doors, was more than just a mere accolade—it was a testament to her expertise and dedication.

Anticipation buzzed in the air as she envisaged being handpicked by the CEO for the prestigious task of managing the contract with 'EpicVerse Publishers.' Yet, the vibrant hues of her professional pride faded into a stormy shade as the whispers of office gossip reached her ears.

The news of Kiara's potential collaboration with Mr. Darren, intertwined with the impending project, acted as a catalyst, igniting a fiery anger within Lora.

In her realm of excellence, where she had effortlessly maneuvered through high-stakes endeavors, the prospect of someone else sharing the spotlight felt like an affront.

As she navigated her way to her office space, there was a palpable shift in the atmosphere.

The vibrant energy that usually accompanied Lora's confident stride now crackled with a stormy intensity.

Lora's mind swirled with a whirlwind of emotions.

Her infatuation with Darren had long been a poorly kept secret, a fact known to those attuned to the subtle dynamics of workplace relationships. She had subtly sought his attention since his arrival, weaving an intricate web of desire and ambition.

The inner turmoil she harbored manifested in the resounding echo of her thoughts: "Why her over me?"

Behind closed doors, Lora's sanctuary, she pondered the uncharted territory where ambition clashed with personal desires.

_ _

The bustling office atmosphere gradually subsided as Nolan, Kiara, and Kayla made their way home. Nolan, the considerate colleague, turned to Kiara, his offer hanging in the air like a gentle breeze.

"Would you still need a ride home today?" Nolan inquired, his tone a mix of genuine concern and politeness.

Kiara, appreciative of the offer, replied with gratitude, "So thoughtful of you, thanks. But we want to quickly catch up with something at the pastry shop nearby."

As they meandered towards the pastry shop, Kiara revealed the purpose behind their impromptu detour to Nolan.

"It's Kayla's mother's birthday, and she wants to surprise her with a cake".

Kayla's plan was to have Kiara join in the evening festivities, turning their journey into a blend of work and personal connections.

"No qualms, I could take you guys there, and also take you home," Nolan generously offered.

"Okay, let me confirm from Kayla first," Kiara responded.

Meanwhile, Kayla, seemingly engrossed in holding her bag, subtly twirled her eyes around, pretending not to eavesdrop on their conversation, waiting for them to finalize their plans.

Nolan, unlocking the car doors, reiterated his offer to Kayla, "Hey Kayla, how about I drop you all at home?"

Kayla, keeping her cool, replied, "Thank you,

Nolan's face lightened up with a bright smile, suggesting, "How about we all go celebrate her together?"

"Sure," Kayla chimed in, her excitement evident as she opened the car door and hopped in.

—--

After the celebration was over At Kayla's mother's place, Kayla's mom expressed her gratitude, "Thank you all so much for taking out time to celebrate with me," she said warmly, leading them outside.

Kiara responded, "It's our pleasure. She would do the same for my mom, no doubt."

As Kayla's mom bid farewell, she left the trio alone.

Walking toward the car, Kayla seized the opportunity for gossip, playfully suggesting, with a whisper in Kiara's ear

"Don't you think Nolan has a thing for you? Or are you not seeing it?"