I Hate My Ex

Arin returned after a long phone call, a satisfied smirk on her face.

"They agreed to prioritize our shipment," she announced. "We'll get the materials in three days instead of a week."

Pin crossed her arms. "How did you manage that?"

Arin shrugged. "A little persuasion, a little negotiation. Let's just say they owed me a favor."

Pin narrowed her eyes but didn't press further. "Fine. That helps, but we're still behind schedule."

"Then we'll work late and make up for the lost time," Arin said. "I'm not leaving until this project is done right."

Pin was taken aback. Arin was serious. Committed. It was hard to ignore.

That evening, as they stayed late at the site, reviewing blueprints and adjusting plans, the tension between them shifted. They weren't just exes struggling with their past—they were two professionals working toward a common goal.

At some point, Poly showed up with food. "You two need to eat," she scolded, placing takeout boxes on the table.

Pin sighed. "You didn't have to."

Poly rolled her eyes. "You're both useless when you're hungry."

Arin chuckled, grabbing a box. "Thanks, Poly."

As they ate, the conversation was surprisingly light. They talked about the project, old memories, and even made a few jokes. For the first time in a while, Pin felt at ease around Arin.

When the night ended and they packed up to leave, Arin hesitated. "Pin…"

Pin turned to her, waiting.

Arin exhaled. "I know I messed up before. But I meant what I said. I want to prove to you that I've changed."

Pin studied her for a long moment. There was sincerity in Arin's eyes—something she hadn't seen in a long time.

"You're trying," Pin admitted. "I see that."

Arin smiled faintly. "That's all I need for now."

As they walked away together, the distance between them felt smaller than before.

The next few days passed in a blur of work and planning. Arin and Pin found themselves spending more time together, not just as business partners but as two people slowly relearning each other.

Arin had been true to her word—she put in extra hours, handled problems efficiently, and never once backed down from a challenge. Pin had to admit she was impressed. It was a side of Arin she hadn't seen before, or maybe she had just never paid enough attention.

One evening, they were reviewing reports in Pin's office. Arin stretched, groaning. "I forgot how exhausting this kind of work is."

Pin smirked. "You were always more of a hands-on type. But this is just as important."

"I know," Arin sighed, rubbing her temples. "I just didn't expect to enjoy it this much."

Pin looked at her curiously. "You enjoy it?"

Arin nodded. "Working on something meaningful, seeing it take shape, knowing I'm doing something right—it feels good."

Pin's gaze softened. "You've really changed."

Arin grinned. "I told you I would."

Before Pin could respond, Poly walked in. "I just got the latest update—construction is back on schedule."

Pin exhaled in relief. "That's good news."

Poly smirked. "And that means you two can stop working yourselves to death and actually rest."

Arin chuckled. "Not a bad idea."

Pin nodded. "Let's call it a night."

As they left the office, Arin hesitated. "Pin… do you want to grab dinner?"

Pin glanced at her, surprised. It wasn't a date, just dinner. But the way Arin asked made it feel like something more.

After a pause, Pin nodded. "Okay."

Arin smiled, and they walked off together. It wasn't a big step, but it was something. And for now, that was enough.