Always You ✔

23 Chapter

Sebrina P.O.V

Lunchtime:

The horrible scene from earlier still haunted me. Austin and Valeria together—ugh. I hated myself for letting him get under my skin like this. I decided to check on him, if only to keep up appearances. I knocked on his door and stepped in. "Sir, it's lunchtime. Do you need anything?" My voice was calm, but inside, I wanted to rip his head off.

Austin glanced up from his desk. "No, you can go," he said, his tone as cold as ever.

I nodded, ready to escape this icebox, but he stopped me. "You heading to the cafeteria?" His voice was casual now, almost like he cared.

"Yes. You need anything?" I replied, forcing politeness.

He shook his head. "No, that’s all. You can go."

Great, I thought as I made my way to the cafeteria. He’s perfectly fine acting like I don’t exist.

The cafeteria was buzzing, but Ander had already snagged a table for the two of us. As I approached, I forced a smile. "I ordered our meals ahead of time so we can chat more," he said with a grin.

"Smart move," I quipped, giving him a proud pat on the back.

"So, what did you want to talk about?" Ander asked, but before I could answer, our food arrived, and I wasted no time digging in.

"Hey, you know Polo's birthday is coming up, right?" I asked between bites. Ander nodded, still chewing.

"I need your help picking out a gift. You always know what to get him, and he loves whatever you pick out," I said. "He doesn’t even know it’s always you behind the gifts."

Ander laughed softly. "So, I’m your secret gift guru? I should start charging."

"You’re coming with me to help this time," I insisted, twirling my fork in the air for emphasis.

He chuckled. "Sure, when do you want to go?"

"After work today," I said excitedly. "Polo’s got a long wish list, and I’d rather get it done ASAP."

Ander raised an eyebrow, laughing. "Let me guess, he’s already handed you that list? And it’s not short, is it?"

"Of course. He’s demanding a huge birthday party to celebrate both his birthday and his soon-to-be graduation," I said with a grin.

"Well, he deserves it. A big party sounds perfect," Ander agreed, smiling at my enthusiasm.

"Alright, text me when you’re done with work, and I’ll pick you up," Ander said as we finished up our meal.

I narrowed my eyes playfully. "Heading somewhere?"

"Just a quick meeting with C&C after lunch. It’s more of a formality. Won’t take long," he replied, standing up.

We both headed to the elevator, chatting and laughing. Once I reached my floor, Ander followed me out, teasing, "Don’t take forever, you know I hate waiting."

I laughed, flashing him a grin. "Okay, boss!" I waved him off and hurried to the bathroom, finally dealing with the coffee I’d had earlier.

As I was washing my hands, I felt a presence behind me. I looked up and saw Valeria in the mirror, her expression venomous.

"So, you’re the reason he’s been acting weird," she spat, her voice dripping with disdain.

I turned to face her, raising an eyebrow. "Excuse me? What are you talking about?"

"Oh, don’t play dumb," she sneered, stepping closer. "We both know what’s going on."

I crossed my arms, not backing down. "Listen, I don’t know you, and you don’t know me, so maybe you should stay in your lane."

Valeria let out a bitter laugh. "Oh, I know you. I know you saw me and Kai that day."

My eyes widened in shock, but I quickly regained my composure. "Look, I’m not interested in your sordid little drama, so why don’t you save the gossip for someone who cares?"

She blocked my exit, smirking. "Why haven’t you told Austin I’m cheating on him? You had the perfect chance."

I sighed, tired of her nonsense. "Like I said, not my business. If you feel guilty, go confess to him yourself."

Valeria’s eyes gleamed with mockery. "Guilty? Oh, sweetie, I’m far from it."

I blinked, confused. "Then why are you dating him?"

She leaned in, her voice dripping with malice. "Because he’s good in bed. That’s all." I recoiled at her words, disgusted.

"Look, I’m serious about Kai. I love him, but it’s complicated. If you so much as breathe a word to Austin or Kai, I’ll make sure you regret it."

I stared at her, speechless. Was this girl for real?

"I told you all this because you saw me, and you didn’t tell him. But if you ever get the bright idea to spill, I’ll destroy your career. I have people wrapped around my finger, especially men. So keep your mouth shut if you know what’s good for you." She gave me a sickly sweet smile, her eyes glinting with malicious intent.

My anger boiled over. "You witch! How dare you drag me into your mess!"

She gave me a bored look. "Choices, darling." With that, she sauntered out of the bathroom, leaving me standing there in stunned silence.

This woman is insane, I thought, my heart pounding. But she was smart. I couldn’t deny that. Now I understood why Austin hadn’t caught on—Valeria was a master manipulator.

One thing was clear, though: I wasn’t going to let her threats scare me. I just had to wait for the right moment to tell Austin the truth. He had to know eventually, and I wasn’t about to let this viper win.

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Till then adios mi amor <3.