At some point, Sophie had slipped away, only to return without me noticing. Her voice drifted over from behind me, soft yet unmistakably pointed.
I turned around with a sigh. "You know that's not what I meant."
"Then what did you mean?"
Her gaze was sharp, her tone even sharper.
For a moment, I faltered.
After all, getting caught talking about someone behind their back was awkward for anyone.
"I was just making conversation. Don't take it the wrong way."
Sophie gave me a long, unreadable look but, thankfully, didn't push further.
Just as I was about to find an excuse to leave, she spoke again—this time, her voice carrying a hint of something else.
"I was the one who sent the flowers today."
I blinked.
"You sent them?"
She nodded. "Mm-hmm."
I rubbed the back of my neck, suddenly feeling a little awkward. "Uh... I didn't know. Sorry about that..."
"It's fine."
A slow, knowing smile spread across her lips.
"Just don't throw them away next time. And as for that woman—I'll have security keep an eye on her."
"If you ever need help, just let me know. I have plenty of ways to make sure she never bothers you again."
I had no reason to doubt her.
Her father was a heavyweight in the industry.
As his daughter, she wasn't someone to be underestimated.
But I turned her down as tactfully as I could.
Things between us at work were already skirting a fine line.
Any further, and it'd be impossible to keep things under control.
The last thing I wanted was for people to think I had some kind of relationship with the boss's daughter.
Everything I had, I had earned myself—
Not through favors.
~~~
After work, Amanda showed up again.
Like a ghost that just wouldn't quit.
I exhaled sharply, patience wearing thin. "What do you want now?"
"Do you really have nothing better to do?"
I didn't even bother hiding the irritation in my voice.
Amanda's eyes were red-rimmed, her voice hoarse. "I... I just wanted to make things right..."
"There's no need."