FIFTY-TWO

KIERA’S POV

I strolled into the office earlier than usual. The morning sun streamed through the windows, casting warm rays across the floor. The stillness was comforting, a stark contrast to the chaos that usually erupted once everyone arrived.

My first stop was Gabriel’s office, to confirm if he needed assistance with any other thing since he had left me a text stating that he was done sorting the emails—the task that was literally a thirst trap.

I knocked lightly before stepping inside.

"Hi.. umm. I came to see if you need any assistance with anything," I asked, my lips twisting to the side.

He barely glanced up from his PC screen, his fingers flying across the keyboard, “I’ll call you if I need anything,” he said, his tone flat and dismissive, like a door slamming shut.

Disappointment washed over me, but I kept my face neutral, “Sure thing,” I replied, forcing a smile before retreating to my own office.

I sank into my swivel chair, the creak accompanying my movements. I spun around