Chapter 1621

In front of Jenson International Financial Corporation, Germaine pulled her coat tightly around herself. She trembled in the biting wind as she looked toward the distant street corner. It was 11:00 pm, an hour later than her usual finish time. "He probably won't come," she thought, pulling out her phone to request a ride. Just as she opened the app, a bright beam of light swept across the area, illuminating everything around her. Germaine tucked her phone away and watched as the car pulled into its familiar spot. When the door swung open, Jenson stepped out and walked around to open the passenger door for her. She slid into the seat and fastened her seatbelt, observing him as he moved to the driver's side. He started the engine and smoothly executed a turn, his actions flowing together effortlessly. Seven years had passed, yet Jenson had never missed picking her up from work. While his commitment remained unchanged, he had matured into a more confident version of himself, exuding the presence of someone who could truly stand on his own. "I thought you weren't coming today," Germaine finally broke the silence. "Something held me up," Jenson replied, keeping his focus on the road. "Are you hungry? Do you want to grab a bite before we head back?" "Do you have a girlfriend?" Germaine asked unexpectedly. "You know my life better than anyone," Jenson said, a hint of a smile on his lips. "I'm always busy; I don't really have time for relationships." Germaine looked down, a smile creeping across her face. "I'm genuinely curious. After seven years of picking me up and dropping me off every day, don't you ever get tired of it?" "I've gotten used to it," Jenson said casually. Realizing how it sounded, he quickly added, "It's the least I can do for the company's top accountant." "I'm planning to resign," Germaine stated abruptly. Jenson's eyes widened for a moment as he tightened his grip on the steering wheel. With a calm demeanor, he teased, "Is it because I'm the CEO now? I can always step down; we built this company together, after all. It doesn't matter who's in charge." Germaine smiled brightly. "Your promotion to CEO was well-deserved. I'm not that petty; my reasons are personal." Jenson paused, choosing his words thoughtfully. "I respect your decision, but you're essential to the company. Please give me some time to find a replacement—at least six months to a year, if not longer. Just not right now." "Alright, I'll wait another year," Germaine agreed readily. She leaned against the car window, tilting her head to gaze at the cold, bright moon above, her mood gradually sinking. Seven years had gone by; what difference would another year make? Perhaps she was simply fooling herself. When did she start wanting their relationship to evolve? Was it his unwavering punctuality, his thoughtful check-ins when she was sick, his meticulous care for every detail, or his newfound maturity and charm that stirred these feelings? But what good was hope? She had already passed her prime. No matter how well she took care of herself, she would always be overshadowed by the youthful, vibrant Jenson. In the end, it seemed they were destined for different paths, with little chance of a future together. As she sighed, the car came to a stop outside her apartment building. "Good night and sweet dreams," Jenson said, offering his typical farewell. He watched her walk up the steps until she vanished into the hallway. Only then did he look away, a momentary sadness glimmering in his eyes.