Celestial Ties

CHAPTER 8

As I stepped into the department office, the air was electric with excitement. The sound of clapping and cheers echoed around me, making my heart swell with pride. "Evelyn, you just got a big one!" Thomas, one of my coworkers, said with a wide grin, his enthusiasm contagious.

I smiled, feeling a rush of warmth from the support of my colleagues. "Thank you. The win is for all of us," I replied, meaning every word. This success wasn't just mine—it was a reflection of the hard work we all put in as a team.

My boss, Mrs. Bestow, clapped her hands to gather everyone's attention. "We're having an after-party to seal the deal, thanks to our sweet Evelyn!" she announced, her voice full of pride. The room erupted in cheers again, the energy buzzing like electricity in the air.

As the excitement started to settle, I noticed Mrs. Bestow making her way back to her office. Without thinking twice, I followed her, closing the transparent door behind us for a bit of privacy. She didn't even turn around before speaking, a knowing smile playing on her lips. "Evelyn, I know why you're here... You don't have to come to the after-party," she said, sitting down behind her desk.

I couldn't help but smile in return. Everyone knew me too well. Social events, especially parties, were never my thing. I always found a way to excuse myself, and my boss was kind enough to understand that. "Thank you, ma," I said softly, truly grateful for her understanding.

Mrs. Bestow looked up at me, a playful glint in her eyes as she noticed my hesitant expression. "Evelyn, what is it? Out with it," she urged, knowing I had something more to ask.

I took a deep breath, then decided to use my secret weapon—cuteness. "Mrs. Bestow, can I ask for a tiny, tiny favor?" I asked, holding up my fingers to emphasize just how small the favor was. My voice was almost a whisper as I leaned in, trying to look as innocent as possible.

She chuckled, drawing out my name in a teasing manner. "Evelyn, what do you need?"

"Can I please leave early today?" I asked, my words tumbling out in a rush. "I have to go to the healthcare to bid Mr. West goodbye because today is his last day there, and I don't want to disappoint him," I finished in one breath, closing my eyes and clasping my hands together in a pleading gesture.

Mrs. Bestow's smile widened as she shook her head. "Evelyn, breathe. And yes, you can leave early," she said, her tone both amused and indulgent.

A wide, relieved smile spread across my face. "Thank you so much!" I said, feeling like a little kid who had just been promised extra dessert.

Mrs. Bestow leaned back in her chair, a dramatic tone coloring her words as she asked, "Anything else?"

I simply nodded, my happiness spilling over as I quickly made my way out of her office. The day had gone better than I'd expected, and I couldn't wait to keep it going.

I rushed through my morning at the company, doing just enough to keep things running smoothly before making a hasty exit. My mind was already at the healthcare center, with Mr. West, who had become more than just a patient to me. He was like a grandfather figure, someone who brought warmth into my life, even on the coldest days. Thankfully, Mrs. Bestow was understanding enough to let me leave early. I knew she could sense my restlessness, the way I kept glancing at the clock, my fingers tapping impatiently on my desk.

As soon as I stepped out of the office, I felt a surge of relief. The fresh air hit my face, and I quickened my pace, eager to get to Mr. West. He had been talking about his discharge for days, and I wanted to be there for him, to say goodbye properly. I had even brought a little gift—a pie that my mum had baked fresh this morning. The thought of Mr. West's face lighting up when he saw it made me smile.