Jealousy Alpha's Regret novel Chapter 144

1 stretched languidly in bed, my body feeling surprisingly good. Looks like we’re having a good day,” I murmured to my stomach. “Let’s not waste it.”

After a quick shower, I stood in front of my closet, considering my options. Today wasn’t just any day–it was my first day returning to Crescent Design as a

professional consultant rather than an intern. I needed to make an impression.

My fingers trailed over the clothes until they stopped on a bold red blouse with billowy sleeves and a flowing midi skirt. Not my usual safe choice, but

perfect for today’s statement.

Over breakfast, I reviewed my plans one last time. I was done hiding in shadows, done playing small. Today marked the beginning of Iris Stone stepping

fully into her power–both as Aurora the renowned designer and as herself.

I parked my car in front of the gleaming glass building of Crescent Design, staring up at the familiar logo. “Crescent Design,” I read aloud, feeling a strange

mix of nerves and determination. “Funny how I’m back here already.”

Taking a deep breath, I smoothed down my skirt and checked my reflection in the rearview mirror. My loose waves framed my face perfectly, and the touch of red lipstick completed my transformation from meek intern to confident professional.

“You’ve got this,” I whispered to myself, grabbing my portfolio case. “Time to show them who you really are.”

The moment I pushed through the revolving door into the lobby, I felt the shift in energy. The receptionist’s eyes widened as she recognized me, bet gaze traveling from my face to my outfit and back again.

“Good morning,” I said pleasantly, enjoying her stunned expression. “Iris Stone to see Marcus Foster.”

“M–Ms. Stone,” she stammered, quickly regaining her composure. “Of course. You can go right up. Your badge still works.”

I nodded my thanks and headed toward the elevators, aware of the whispers trailing in my wake. The confidence flowing through me was intoxicating. No

more shrinking, no more hiding. This was who I was meant to be all along.

In the elevator, I caught my reflection in the mirrored walls. The red blouse made my skin glow, and the flowing skirt moved elegantly as I shifted my

weight. My hair bounced with each subtle movement, the golden waves catching the light. I barely recognized myself–not because I looked different, but

because I finally looked like the person I’d always been inside.

When the doors opened on the design floor, the familiar hum of activity greeted me. Except this time, the conversations faltered as heads turned in mes

direction. I stepped out confidently, portfolio case in hand, and walked toward the design department.

I could feel eyes tracking my movement, heard the hushed whispers and gasps of recognition One voice rose above the others–Lisa’y showked exclamat Iris? Oh my god, is that really you?

I turned to see her rubbing her eyes as if she couldn’t believe what she was seeing. Her expression was comical mouth hanging open in prie

“When did you get back? Lisa hurried over, her eyes wide with excitement. And why didnt you tell anyone? We’ve all been wondering whore to wit alles that whole thing with Megan!

Before I could answer, other designers began gathering around, the faces showing various degrees of surprise and coinsity The attention might have mad me uncomfortable before, but now I welcomed it. This was exactly the entrance I’d hoped for

“I just got back,” I replied with a smile, deliberately vague. It’s good to see familiar faces.

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3:23 pm Pppp.

Chapter 144

The growing crowd of designers fell silent as a stern voice cut through the chatter: “What is going on here? It’s almost time for the morning meeting, and

you’re all standing around chatting like it’s a coffee break!”

Marcus Foster pushed through the crowd, his expression shifting from irritation to surprise when he spotted me. “Iris!” he exclaimed, his professional

demeanor briefly slipping. His eyes took in my transformation, from my confident stance to my stylish outfit.

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