The Billionaire's Widow

75

Kim’s POV

"Kim." I looked up when I heard Ry’s voice.

"Yeah?"

"You’ve been sitting here for hours just staring into space. Are you okay?"

I sighed, then gave her a small nod. “I’m okay, Ry.”

"Are you sure?"

I didn’t respond right away.

"Okay… I won’t push," she said gently.

"Can I ask you something?"

She nodded. “Of course.”

“What do you think about people who run away from their problems? Do you think they’re cowards?”

She hesitated. “It depends.”

“On what?”

“On what kind of problem they’re running from. Some people walk away from responsibilities, which isn't always okay. But others leave behind toxic relationships, or families that hurt them.” She shrugged lightly. “Different situations. Different reasons.”

I studied her face. “So… what do you think about someone who walks away from a toxic family or relationship?”

Ry looked at me, her expression turning serious. “Kim… are you thinking of running away?”

I let out a deep breath and glanced away.

“Kim, talk to me. Maybe I can help. Ever since you stood up for me against Logan, I’ve thought of you as a friend. Please don’t shut me out.”

I giggled softly, the memory of that day flashing in my mind. “No one can help me, Ry.”

“Why not?”

I finally met her eyes and smiled faintly. “You still haven’t answered my question.”

She sighed. “I think everyone deserves a break sometimes. And if leaving is the only way someone can breathe again… then yeah, I think that’s fair. You’re not a coward for wanting peace.”

I felt something in my chest loosen. “Thank you… for being honest.”

A few hours later…

“Yo Kim, the boss wants to see you,” Max said as he walked past.

“Me?” I blinked, confused. “Are you sure?”

He nodded and kept walking.

I made my way to Paige’s office and knocked. Her voice called from inside, “Come in.”

I stepped inside. “You asked to see me.”

“Yeah… we need to talk.”

“Yeah, we do,” I said, sitting down. “Actually, I wanted to tell you something first. After I leave for the holidays… I’m not coming back.”

Her eyes widened. “You’re finally quitting?”

I nodded. “Yeah. I don’t think this job is for me. Honestly… I never wanted it in the first place. But that doesn’t matter now.”

She studied me for a second, then nodded. “I understand. If that’s your decision, I hope you find peace in whatever comes next. Good luck, Kim.”

“Thanks. So… what did you want to talk about?”

“Oh—uh,” she hesitated, “I just wanted to check when you’d be back from your trip, so I could plan the shift schedule. But I guess that’s not needed anymore.”