I was worn out after everything with Aunt Linda. I was burdened by the familial expectations, the whispers, and the never-ending desire to prove myself. I tried to concentrate on my job for the remainder of the day, but my thoughts kept returning to the meeting with Global Enterprises. I could see the potential, how it might change the company and provide me the freedom I desired. I was aware of the dangers, however, particularly if Uncle Richard and Aunt Linda persisted in manipulating events against me.
My phone buzzed as I was ready to end the day. Ethan's message caught my attention as I looked down: "Hey, how about some fresh air? Let's go away for a while. Will you meet me at the lake?
I experienced a sense of relief. It seemed like Ethan could always tell when I needed a rest. He served as a kind of stabilizing influence in my life, and I wouldn't have preferred to see anybody else at that time.
"That sounds ideal. I said, "I'll be there in 20."
