Ansel: A Short Story (Regretfully Yours) – A Brief But Impactful Read
When I picked up Ansel: A Short Story (Regretfully Yours) by Maya Alden, it was the premise that pulled me in. A workplace romance mingled with themes of betrayal, self-discovery, and personal growth? Count me in! As I delved into Neha and Ansel’s story, I found myself resonating with Neha’s struggles, particularly as a woman of color navigating both the corporate world and her own emotional landscape.
The heart of this story lies in the complex dynamics between Neha, a fiercely dedicated assistant, and her boss Ansel, who initially appears as the charming but misguided hero. Neha’s journey, from being a supportive figure in Ansel’s life to realizing her own worth, is a rollercoaster of emotions. While I found the pacing brisk, and some character motivations inconsistent, Alden beautifully encapsulates the theme of self-worth—and the pain of being taken for granted.
The narrative opens with Neha’s years of hard work at Sterling & Co Investments, but it quickly spirals into turmoil once she overhears Ansel’s dismissive comments. The moment she learns she’s merely “replaceable” resonated deeply, especially given the trigger warnings around parental death and abandonment. It felt raw, real, and relatable. As a reader, I wanted more than just hurt feelings; I wished for Neha to unleash her anger and assert herself more rigidly against Ansel’s cavalier attitude.
And yet, Alden’s handling of their relationship brings in a refreshing dose of angst. Neha’s struggles with her past—raised by a single mother after escaping an abusive familial situation—add layers that elevate the narrative from just a simple love story into something more poignant and relatable. I appreciated that Maya Alden includes POC characters, allowing readers like me to see elements of our own experiences mirrored in the pages.
However, I did wish for a stronger portrayal of the characters. Neha’s decisions could feel overly accommodating, and Ansel’s shift from arrogance to affection occasionally felt unearned. It seemed as if the emotional crescendo needed a bit more build-up. The groveling could have been more pronounced; Ansel’s character development toward the end appeared abrupt, and his late admissions of love felt a touch insincere.
That said, there are notable highlights—particularly the dynamic between Neha and her roommate, Penny, who provides shelter and support amid the turbulence. Their friendship is a warm embrace in an otherwise chilly narrative landscape. The scenes where Neha rediscovers her passion and begins to flourish outside of Ansel’s shadow were genuinely uplifting.
In conclusion, Ansel is an enjoyable quick read for those who love workplace romances and stories weaving in self-realization amid emotional turmoil. While it may not be a ground-breaking literary masterpiece, it provides a comforting escape and meaningful representation for readers. If you enjoy a dash of angst, some heartfelt moments, and a glimpse into the complexities of workplace relationships through a diverse lens, this short story may just be worth your time.
Happy reading, everyone! Stay safe and remember to cherish your worth—just like Neha learned to do.
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