Bound To The Broken Alpha (Amy and Daniel) novel Chapter 49

**When Dawn Breaks Slowly Hope Finds Space To Grow by Jin Rowan**
**Chapter 49: An Official Number**

**AMY**

“Something like that,” I replied, sliding into the car, the familiar scent of leather wrapping around me like a comforting blanket.

As we cruised towards the office, the world outside my window transformed into a tapestry of life. The city was awakening, each corner bustling with energy—cars honking, pedestrians weaving through the streets, and the distant sound of construction echoing like a heartbeat. It was remarkable how much had shifted in just a few short weeks; the very fabric of my reality felt altered. By the time we pulled up to the Carter building, my mind had already rehearsed the day ahead, a mental checklist unfolding with each passing moment.

The elevator doors slid open to reveal the executive floor, and a hush fell over the office like a blanket. The vibrant chatter that usually filled the air stilled as I stepped out. I could sense the weight of their gazes upon me—some eyes filled with curiosity, others tinged with awkwardness or guilt. I refused to let it affect me. Instead, I offered polite smiles to a few familiar faces, my chin held high as I strode forward.

At the end of the hall, I spotted Sandra, my assistant. Her expression flickered with surprise, but she quickly masked it with professionalism. “Good morning, Mrs. Amy,” she greeted, a hint of warmth in her tone.

“Morning, Sandra,” I replied, feeling a surge of comfort at her presence. “It’s good to be back.”

“Yes, ma’am,” she acknowledged, falling into step behind me as we entered my office. Everything was just as I had left it—neat and untouched, a testament to my absence. I placed my bag on the desk, the familiar weight of it grounding me, and sank into my chair.

Sandra lingered near the doorway, her posture a blend of eagerness and respect. “Would you like me to get you some coffee?” she asked, her voice brightening the room.

“Yes, please,” I said, appreciating the thought. “And could you bring me my schedule for the week?”

“I’ll print it out and have it ready in ten minutes,” she assured me, her enthusiasm palpable.

“Good,” I replied, my mind already racing ahead. “And Sandra, please ensure I’m copied on all internal emails from the boardroom. No filters.”

She nodded quickly, determination in her eyes. “Of course, ma’am.”

Once she left, I leaned back in my chair, allowing myself a moment to absorb the atmosphere. The view from my window showcased the city skyline, its calmness juxtaposing the storm of thoughts swirling in my mind.

Cole’s earlier words echoed in my head, “They play politics with knives.” He wasn’t wrong. But this time, I was stepping into the fray with my eyes wide open.

A soft knock interrupted my reverie, and Sandra returned, a folder in her hand. “Here’s your schedule,” she said, her voice steady.

I opened the folder, flipping through the pages filled with meetings, conference calls, and internal reviews—a full day ahead, exactly what I needed to regain my footing.

“Thank you,” I said, my gratitude genuine.

She hesitated, her gaze searching mine. “It’s good to have you back, ma’am. People missed your presence here.”

I offered a slight smile, warmth blooming within me. “Let’s just ensure we give them something better to talk about.”

After she left, I sat in silence for a moment, the hum of the office enveloping me like a familiar song. It felt both strange and right to reclaim my space, a sense of control washing over me.

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