Own Me (Savage Bosses)

17. Ayana

CHAPTER 17

Ayana

M onday morning arrives, and I take a deep breath before entering the office. I've decided to give Sterling a chance, not because I'm ready to forget the pain he caused, but because somewhere deep down, I want to believe that people can change. As I approach my desk, Sterling is already there, a serious expression on his face.

"Ayana," he says, his tone soft but determined. "Can we talk?"

I nod, still guarded but willing to hear him out. We move to a quiet corner of the office, away from prying eyes and judgmental glances.

"I meant what I said, Ayana. I'm truly sorry for what happened, and I want to make things right. I've started taking steps to rectify the situation at work, to ensure that you get the credit you deserve for our project."

I raise an eyebrow, skeptical. "I know I said it before, but actions speak louder than words, Sterling. I need to see real change."

He nods, understanding the gravity of his words. "I get it. And I want to show you. I've talked to the higher-ups, and I'm going to make sure your contributions are acknowledged. No more games, Ayana. I promise."

I study his face, searching for any signs of deceit. There's a sincerity in his eyes that I hadn't seen before, but trust is something that takes time to rebuild.

"I'll believe it when I see it," I reply, crossing my arms.

He nods, accepting my skepticism. "Fair enough. But I also want you to know that this isn't just about work. I want to make things right between us, personally. I care about you, Ayana, more than I realized."

I tilt my head, studying him. "You have a long way to go, Sterling. I'm not going to forget everything overnight."

He sighs, but there's determination in his eyes. "I know. I messed up, and I must earn back your trust. I'm willing to do whatever it takes." He walks away with these words. My heart flutters, I be damn if he doesn’t look as good walking away as he does coming.

The day at the office unfolds, and true to his word, Sterling starts making changes. He involves me more in decision-making, acknowledges my ideas during meetings, and ensures that my contributions don't go unnoticed. The office atmosphere begins to shift, and I find myself cautiously appreciating the positive changes.

As the days and weeks pass, Sterling continues to prove himself. He becomes more open, sharing his thoughts and fears. It's as if a veil has been lifted, and I see a vulnerability in him that I hadn't noticed before. We have more conversations, both about work and personal matters, and I start to see him as a person rather than just my boss. I also see that Lux is nowhere around. I heard in a passing discussion that she had been moved to an affiliate company. That was a relief.

One afternoon about a month later, Sterling invites me to lunch. It's a simple gesture, but it speaks volumes about his willingness to bridge the gap between us. We sit at a small cafe, and he opens up about his past, the struggles he's faced, and the reasons behind his controlling ways.

"I never meant to hurt you, Ayana. I was just lost, and I made some terrible decisions. But meeting you made me realize what I was missing in my life. I don't want to lose you."

His words touch me, and not for the first time, I sense a genuine sincerity in his voice. "Sterling, change takes time. I appreciate the effort, but I can't forget what happened."

He nods, understanding the gravity of his actions. "I know. I just want you to see that I'm trying, that I'm serious about making amends."

As the weeks pass, Sterling's actions align with his words. He becomes a mentor rather than just a boss, guiding me in my career and offering support when needed. The dynamic between us shifts from a strictly professional relationship to something deeper. I want to tell him about the news I’m keeping from him, but I don’t. My belly is getting softer, but my pregnancy isn’t showing. I still have time to make sure he keeps to his promises.

One evening, after a successful presentation that highlights both our efforts, Sterling suggests grabbing dinner to celebrate. I'm hesitant but agree. As we sit in a cozy restaurant, he looks at me with sincerity in his eyes.

"Ayana, I know I've hurt you, and I can't change the past. But I'm willing to work towards a future where we can be more than just colleagues. I care about you, and I want to be there for you in every way possible."

His words hang in the air, and I can sense the vulnerability in his gaze. It's a risk, considering our history, but there's a part of me that wants to believe in the possibility of change.

"I need time, Sterling," I say, my voice steady but cautious. "But I’m getting there."

He nods, accepting my terms. "I understand. Take all the time you need. I just want you to know that I'm serious about us, about being a better person for you."

As the night progresses, Sterling continues to show a side of himself I hadn't seen before. He's attentive, respectful, and genuinely interested in getting to know me beyond the confines of the office. It's a slow process, but for the first time, I begin to see a glimmer of hope that maybe, just maybe, Sterling can change.

As we part ways that night, I find myself contemplating the possibility of a future with him. It's a complex journey filled with uncertainties, but there's a growing belief that people can evolve, and forgiveness might be within reach. The days ahead will be a test of his sincerity, but for now, there's a chance – a chance for redemption, growth, and the possibility of a more meaningful connection with the father of my baby.