Bleeding Heart
Valentine’s Day Reflection
Standing in her sleek, modern office, Elsa stared out through the expansive glass window that framed the breathtaking view of Beverly Hills. The city below sparkled with an opulence that mirrored her own success, yet, as another Valentine's Day approached, Elsa couldn’t escape the bitterness that clung to the day. Each year, this date was a harsh reminder of the joy that once was and the heartache that followed, an irony not lost on her.
Lost in her somber thoughts, Elsa was abruptly pulled back to reality by the sound of a throat being cleared. She turned to see Stevia, her new assistant, standing at the entrance of the office. The young woman was holding a meticulously wrapped Valentine's gift, her eyes bright with the excitement of spreading a bit of festive cheer. Stevia had knocked several times and, with no answer, had decided to enter, believing her boss might need a reminder of the occasion.