chapter 4

**Freya's Pov**

A thrill of accomplishment coursed through me, igniting a fire of pride within my chest as I reflected on the transformative journey that had led me here. It was hard to believe that merely a month ago, I had been wandering through uncertainty, and now I was embraced by the warm glow of success in my new job. The sunlight streamed through the window on this bright Monday morning, casting playful shadows across the room and urging me to rise.

My fingers drummed excitedly against the smooth surface of my bedside table as I prepared for the day ahead. Today was special; it held the promise of meeting Liam, a thought that caused butterflies to flutter in my stomach. Standing under the invigorating spray of the shower, the water cascaded over my skin like a refreshing waterfall, washing away any remnants of doubt. The warmth enveloped me, and I reveled in the knowledge that payday was just days away. The prospect of finally paying off my daunting student loans felt liberating, like breaking free from the shackles I had carried for too long.

Once I stepped out of the shower, I wrapped myself in a plush towel, its fibers soft against my skin. I switched into my carefully pressed emerald green gown, which hugged my figure perfectly. Standing before the mirror, I studied my reflection, my dark hair glistening and framing my face in soft waves. "Am I not lovely?" I asked aloud with a playful smile, my spirits buoyed by a sense of self-acceptance.

Eagerly, I bounded into the sitting room, my heart radiating warmth.

"Good morning, Mom!" I greeted, my voice melodic and bright, reflecting my bubbling happiness.

"Morning, darling," she replied, her voice laced with maternal affection, her eyes crinkling with joy as she handed me a piece of toast.

Despite my excitement, I realized I had lost my appetite for breakfast. "I can't stick around," I announced, already envisioning the day's events and racing to the office.

**Liam's Pov**

The drive to work was an almost meditative experience, with the rhythmic hum of the engine and the gentle swaying of the car creating an atmosphere of calm. But amid the tranquility, thoughts of Freya surged like a tidal wave, captivating my mind. I couldn't shake the magnetic attraction I felt toward her, a force so strong it left me breathless. Despite the diligent efforts I made to maintain my distance, the pull was irresistible the moment I saw her.

As I navigated into the underground garage, I parked my sleek sedan in its usual spot, the smooth movements guided by muscle memory. I stepped out, taking a moment to breathe in the cool air, which invigorated my senses. I made my way to the executive elevator, pressing the button for the sixth floor with anticipation bubbling in my chest. The familiar chime echoed as the doors slid open, welcoming me into the sleek, glass-walled corridor that led to my office.

Yet, an overpowering urge compelled me to sneak a glimpse of Freya before diving into my responsibilities. Peeking into her office, my heart skipped a beat. There she was, cocooned in her chair, a vision of serenity. Her head rested gently against the back, her dark lashes casting soft shadows on her cheeks as she surrendered to deep slumber. "Isn't she adorable?" I murmured to myself, entranced by her peacefulness. I stood there for a moment longer, captivated, before realizing I should let her rest, and quietly retreated to my own office, where stacks of documents awaited my eager attention.

**Freya's Pov**

I stirred from my sleep, stretching luxuriously like a cat basking in the morning light. A soft yawn escaped my lips, and I blinked against the brightness of my surroundings. The cozy warmth of my dreams slowly lifted, but then a jolt of realization cut through the haze — I had overslept! I glanced at the clock, the bold numbers glaring back at me, and a surge of panic shot through me. "Shit!" I exclaimed, feeling a rush of dread. It was already noon! How could I have lost track of time?

Quickly, I stood up, the cool air brushing against my skin as I tried to smooth out the creases in my gown. Clutching my phone tightly, I hurried toward Liam's office, my heart racing with a mix of flustered anxiety and eagerness.

"Good morning, sir," I managed to say, forcing a cheerful tone despite the butterflies fluttering in my stomach.

His eyes found mine, and I noticed a flicker of concern flash across his face. "Are you okay?" he asked, his voice low and warm, sending a wave of reassurance through me.

"Yes," I replied, but even as I spoke, dizziness washed over me, my body becoming unsteady. "I think I might be coming down with a fever." My words emerged with a tremor as shivers coursed through me.

I slowly made my way toward the inviting plush sofa in his office, seeking solace from the waves of fatigue that crashed over me. But just as I reached for the soft cushions, darkness closed in around me, and I felt myself slipping away into a quiet void, the world falling silent.

**Liam's Pov**

I watched as she moved toward me, her steps tentative and uncertain, as if she was trying to grasp the swirling chaos of the moment. Suddenly, without warning, she collapsed, her body crumpling to the floor like a marionette whose strings had been cut. "Freya!" I shouted, my heart racing as panic surged through me. I sprang to my feet and rushed over, careful yet frantic as I gently laid her down on the sofa. Her skin felt alarmingly warm, a wave of concern washing over me.

Desperate to help, I dashed into the restroom, my thoughts racing. I grabbed a towel and filled a bowl with water, my hands trembling slightly as I soaked the fabric, then hurried back to where she lay. I sprinkled a bit of the cool water across her forehead, hoping to bring her back to me. Moments felt like hours as I worked to revive her, but despite my efforts, she remained unresponsive.

Unable to bear the weight of the situation any longer, I called for the family doctor. Thankfully, he was nearby, and I paced the room, anxiety twisting my stomach into knots as I awaited his arrival. Each ticking second felt like an eternity.

Finally, after what felt like an age, he burst through the door, his expression focused and urgent. He ran a few quick tests, assessing her condition with practiced efficiency, before administering a series of injections. I held my breath, watching intently as her eyelids fluttered and her consciousness gradually returned. She opened her eyes, briefly taking in her surroundings, only to close them again almost immediately, as if the light was too harsh. Relief and worry battled within me as I kept vigil by her side, praying for her full recovery.