The Land of Phaleno: The Princess's Rebirth (Book I)

Chapter Seven: "The Hidden Wounds"

With utmost care, Jun lifted the woman's body, ensuring that each movement was gentle so as not to aggravate her frail condition. His hands, strong and steady, cradled her back and neck, as if he were holding a precious treasure. The woman, unconscious, rested fully against his chest, her pale face obscured by the slightly shifted blanket.

Jun's footsteps echoed softly along the deserted corridor, each step sending a gentle reverberation through the near-empty space. The large wooden door, pushed open with a gentle creak, revealed a passageway illuminated by soft-glowing lights along the walls. These lights cast a warm, orange glow, creating an atmosphere that contrasted with the tranquility and silence of the corridor.

A few workers in the vicinity of the corridor turned their heads, their eyes wide with curiosity reflected in their expressions. However, despite their inquisitiveness, none dared to approach or interfere, as if they understood the unusual nature of the situation and chose to maintain their distance.

Jun carried the woman to his serene office on the second floor of the building. Large windows, draped in heavy red curtains, filtered the gently streaming sunlight. The floor of the room was covered in a plush black carpet.

In one corner of the room stood a black sofa, adorned with cushions at each end. With meticulous care, Jun transferred the woman to the sofa. With one hand supporting her back and the other supporting her legs, Jun slowly lowered her onto the couch. He tucked her legs in, ensuring she was in a comfortable position.

With gentle care, Jun positioned the woman on the sofa, ensuring her comfort. He meticulously adjusted her head to rest comfortably against the cushions. The creaking sound of an opening door diverted Jun's attention from his focused care.

Ralph, a middle-aged man with a distinctive thick mustache, entered the room, clad in a crisp suit. Riau held a stack of thick documents in his right hand, his expression composed as his eyes briefly glanced towards Jun.

In an instant, he noticed the presence of the woman under the blanket, but he quickly dismissed his curiosity and maintained his focus on the task at hand. Ralph understood that such moments demanded the professionalism he embodied as the Head of Finance.

Approaching Jun's desk, Ralph placed the crucial financial reports on the surface, stating, "Sir, I have brought the financial reports you requested. There are a few matters that require your review before the upcoming meeting."

Jun cast a brief glance towards Ralph, who seemed oblivious to the woman's presence. Focused on his work, Ralph delivered the information swiftly before returning his attention to the documents he had placed on the desk.

After ensuring the woman on the sofa was decently covered with the blanket, Jun proceeded towards his desk. He calmly settled into his chair, opening a drawer to retrieve his glasses. With deliberate movements, Jun donned his spectacles and began scrutinizing the documents that Ralph had just presented.

Meanwhile, Ralph stood by the desk, waiting patiently as Jun began reviewing the diamond sales report. The sound of turning pages and hushed whispers filled the tense atmosphere. Jun scrutinized each page, his brow occasionally furrowing as he encountered figures that demanded closer attention.

Ralph interjected, "Sir, this report encompasses all diamond sales transactions for the current quarter. There are a few items that warrant specific attention, such as the decline in sales volume in some key markets. However, overall, sales performance remains in line with projections."

Jun, who had grown satisfied with the report, nodded slowly. "Thank you. This report is quite clear. There is nothing further to discuss at this time. You may dismiss yourself. I will complete this review on my own."