13. Second Gift

Fri, 22 May 2026 01:59:33 +0000

I step back into my office after the quick restroom detour, still feeling the faint warmth on my cheeks and the lingering tenderness in my chest. The door clicks softly behind me, and I freeze for a second— Mrs. Sella is already there, seated on the small sofa near the window. She's dressed in her usual elegant but understated way: navy blazer, cream blouse, hair neatly pinned. A small leather portfolio rests on her lap. She looks up and smiles—warm, a little sad, but steady.