CHAPTER SIXTY NINE: WHAT IF

The news of the canceled collaboration with Axel’s company hit Sarah like a sudden storm on a clear day. She couldn’t fathom why the order had been abruptly canceled, especially considering the promising discussions they had just had. The realization that it came from higher up only added to her confusion and frustration. As she sat in her studio, trying to make sense of it all, her phone rang. It was Axel. She hesitated for a moment before answering, unsure of what to expect. “Sarah, I just heard about what happened with the collaboration,” Axel said, his voice filled with concern. “I’m so sorry. I had no idea this was going to happen.” Sarah’s jaw clenched at his words. She had known Axel long enough to recognize his smooth-talking ways. But she wasn’t about to let him off the hook so easily. “Save your apologies, Axel,” she said, her voice cold. “I find it hard to believe that you had no idea about this. You’re the one who brought me into the fold in the first place.” There was