Quiet Tables and Noisy Minds

𝑴𝒊𝒍𝒂'𝒔 𝑷𝒐𝒗

After hours of intense focus, I finally decided to take a break. I glanced at the clock and realized it was already lunchtime. Lost in my work, I hadn’t noticed when the lunch hour began. My stomach growled, a reminder of how I had skipped breakfast too.

I neatly arranged the papers and samples on my desk and locked them away in the drawer before heading out. As I stepped into the cafeteria, the hum of chatter and occasional bursts of laughter filled the air. My colleagues from the department were gathered at one table, enjoying their time together.

I considered joining them for a moment, but my stomach had other priorities. I headed to the counter, placed my order, and quickly found a corner table away from the crowd. Settling into the seat, I pulled out my phone.

The first thing I checked was the status of the viral video. A grin crept onto my lips as I saw the results. The video had been wiped clean, like it had never existed. I could always count on her to deliver. My contact was swift and efficient, and by nightfall, the culprits who had uploaded the video would surely face the consequences.

Satisfied, I dug into my lunch, savoring the first bites after a long morning. A few minutes later, two colleagues approached my table, breaking my moment of solitude.

“Hey, Mila,” one of them said with a warm smile. “Why are you sitting here alone? Mind if we join you?”

I nodded politely, even as I tried to think of a casual excuse.

“We were talking about the company’s annual party coming up,” the other colleague added, settling into the seat. “Do you know what you’re wearing? It’s always such a fun event!”

The topic was light and harmless, and I appreciated the distraction. We chatted about dress ideas, party themes, and how the event was the highlight of the year for everyone.

Suddenly, one of them hesitated before bringing up a more sensitive subject. “Mila, about that video... you know, the one with those accusations. Are you okay? Do you need any help with... anything?”

For a brief second, I froze, but I quickly composed myself. I offered them a reassuring smile. “Thank you for asking, but I’ve handled it. Things are fine now.” My tone was calm but firm, making it clear I didn’t want to discuss it further.

Sensing my reluctance, they nodded and shifted the conversation back to lighter topics. After a few more minutes, I stood, excusing myself with a polite smile. “I’ve got some important work waiting for me. See you later.”

Back in my cabin, I placed my belongings on the desk and prepared to dive back into work when my phone buzzed. It was Sally.

“Did you eat lunch?” she asked before I could even say hello. Her tone carried the usual mix of concern and authority, like a mother scolding her child.

I leaned back in my chair, a small smile playing on my lips. “Yes, Sally, I had lunch. I’m fine. And before you start lecturing me, just remember I have a mountain of work waiting.”

“You may have a mountain of work, but don’t forget you’re not just taking care of yourself now,” she countered. “You’re carrying a baby. You need to prioritize your health, Mila.”

I sighed, but her words warmed me. “I know, Sally. I promise I’ll take care of myself. You can save the scolding for when I get home.”

She huffed, clearly unsatisfied, but let it go. “Alright. Just make sure you’re actually eating and resting. I’ll see you later.”

With a chuckle, I ended the call and turned back to my desk. There was still so much to do, and the day was far from over. But for now, I felt a little lighter, knowing I had people who cared, even in the midst of chaos.