**Chapter 18: Christopher Garrison** In the bustling heart of the city, Janet found herself at the doors of the Larson Group, a place she had longed to be since the moment she received the call with the thrilling news — she had passed her second round of interviews. The end of the month had brought her not just an offer, but hope, igniting her ambition to carve a niche in the world of design. As she stood outside the sleek, glass-fronted buildings of the Larson Group, a wave of nervous excitement washed over her. The design department, housed on the seventeenth floor of the first building, was revered for its team of innovative thinkers and artistic talents. Janet had heard whispers of their exceptional skills, all graduates from prestigious universities, and she felt a tingling sense of belonging — this was where her journey was meant to begin. Before making her way upstairs, she decided to stop by a small convenience store nearby to grab a much-needed cup of coffee. The aroma filled the air, stirring her senses and easing her jitters just a bit. As she was about to turn away with her drink, an unexpected tap on her shoulder broke her thoughts. “Miss, your change fell on the floor.” Startled, Janet spun around, looking into the face of the man who had nudged her. “Oh, thank you,” she replied, extending her hand to retrieve the coins. At that moment, their eyes locked, and recognition painted astonishment across her features. “Chris? What a coincidence!” Christopher Garrison stood before her, his black hair tousled and his brown eyes sparkling with surprise and warmth. Clad in a navy blue shirt and smart suit pants, he exuded a quiet confidence, his laptop bag casually slung over his shoulder. It felt surreal to see him again. Years had passed since their college days, where Christopher had harbored a crush on her, a feeling she was oblivious to at the time. Back then, she had politely turned down his advances, focused as she was on her own goals. Now, finding him in such an ordinary setting felt like destiny playing its hand. “Do you work at the Larson Group too?” Janet asked, glancing at the ID card swinging from his neck. Christopher nodded, a friendly smile gracing his features. “Yes. I interned here throughout college and secured a position right after graduating. Are you in the design department?” “Yes,” she replied, her heart lighter. “It’s my first day.” They strolled together, exchanging stories as they walked. Christopher revealed he held a prestigious role in a different department, and Janet couldn't help but wonder if his influence had played a part in her acceptance into the company. The Garrison family was renowned, powerful — perhaps his voice had carried weight during her application process with Elaine. “Thank you, Chris. I really appreciate it,” she said, her gratitude genuine. He chuckled softly at her earnestness. “No need to thank me for a small favor. Why do you always act like you owe everyone something?” With a shy smile that revealed her dimples, Janet responded, “I just prefer not to owe favors to anyone. It feels better that way.” Their shared history danced silently between them — moments when she had intentionally kept her distance during their college days because of his proposal. But time had softened her heart, and she felt a warmth in their reconnection. Christopher, with his gaze lingering on her, felt hope swell within him. Years had transformed Janet into someone even more beautiful and graceful; her bright eyes sparkled like stars, capturing his heart anew. He couldn't deny the lingering feelings from their college days — he had never quite forgotten her. “Let’s have dinner sometime. You can treat me to a meal, and we’ll call it even,” he suggested, a playful tone weaving through his words. “Sure,” she agreed, though hesitation flickered in her eyes. “But I’m a bit busy right now. Can we do it next month?” Janet tried to mask the concerns of her financial struggles, the burden of medical bills for Hannah looming large in her mind. “Of course, no rush at all,” Christopher replied, undeterred. “How about I show you around the company in the meantime?” “Thank you, buddy,” she said, a bright smile returning to her face. However, the moment of warmth faded like a soft sunset as they stepped into the elevator together. It was there that another man awaited them, impeccably charming with a smirk playing on his lips. “Well, if it isn’t Miss Lind. Fancy seeing you here again.” Garrett’s gaze flitted between Janet and Christopher, the air thickening with unspoken tension, setting the stage for what was sure to be an interesting day ahead.