Under Her Thumb

Underneath the Neon Glow

❤️‍🩹

The fluorescent lights flickered erratically in the dimly lit corridor of Briston's Corp. Katherine Scott methodically wiped down the polished marble floors, the late-night quiet punctuated only by the muted hum of the industrial vacuum cleaner. She was exhausted, her muscles aching from hours of back-breaking labor, but her mind was fixated on the image of her sister, Lizzie, lying frail and weakened in a hospital bed.

Every swipe of her mop seemed heavier than the last, her thoughts swirling around the latest update from Lizzie's doctor. The cancer had progressed faster than they had hoped, and the new treatment was their last chance. Katherine's stomach twisted into knots at the thought of how much it would cost. Each dollar she earned was another step towards that elusive hope, but it came at the price of her own health and sanity.

The clock on the wall ticked slowly, each second an agonizing reminder of how little sleep she was getting. Katherine's hand trembled slightly as she mopped near the reception desk. The usual calm of the night shift was interrupted by a familiar hum. She looked up to see the headlights of a sleek black SUV cutting through the darkness outside the glass doors. Her heart skipped a beat, recognizing the vehicle.

Madam Monica Halston, the billionaire CEO of Halston Corporation, had once been Katherine's boss, and now she was something of an unexpected benefactor. Katherine had never imagined that the demanding and high-profile Monica would have any interest in her life beyond the office walls. But she had made an exception. The doors of the SUV swung open, and out stepped Monica in a tailored suit that spoke of wealth and authority.

The door to the lobby swung open, and Monica walked in with a purposeful stride. Katherine, her mop still dripping, tried to hide her shock and exhaustion, but it was impossible. Monica's gaze swept over the unkempt appearance Katherine had become accustomed to hiding, her expression softening as she approached.

"Katherine," Monica said, her voice a blend of warmth and concern. "What are you doing here?"

Katherine forced a smile, though it felt more like a grimace. "Just finishing up my shift," she replied, trying to sound casual despite the fatigue pulling at her every word. "I didn't expect to see you here."

Monica's eyes narrowed slightly as she took in the dark circles under Katherine's eyes and the way her shoulders slumped with weariness. "I heard about Lizzie," Monica said quietly. "And I couldn't help but notice the extra hours you've been putting in."

Katherine's heart skipped. She had kept her dual job a secret, not wanting anyone's pity or interference. "I—" she started, but the words felt stuck in her throat.

"Don't," Monica said, her tone gentle but firm. "I can see how hard you're working, Katherine. You don't need to explain."

There was a long pause, and Katherine felt her composure slipping. Her eyes misted over as she struggled to hold back tears. "I'm just trying to give her the best chance," she said, her voice breaking. "She's everything to me."

Monica's expression softened further, and she took a step closer. "You're an incredible sister, Katherine," she said, her voice filled with genuine admiration. "But you don't have to go through this alone."

Katherine shook her head, her breath hitching. "I can't afford to stop. Every day, every hour matters."

Monica looked at her for a moment, then made a decision. "Come with me," she said, reaching out and gently touching Katherine's arm. "I'm taking you home."

Katherine blinked, confused. "But I—"

"No arguments," Monica said, her tone brooking no dissent. "You've been working far too hard, and I'm not going to let you continue like this."

With a mixture of gratitude and reluctance, Katherine followed Monica outside. The cool night air felt like a balm to her tired skin, but her exhaustion was not easily dismissed. They reached the SUV, and Monica opened the door for her. As they drove through the city, the neon lights streaking past seemed to blur together, and Katherine felt an overwhelming wave of relief mixed with anxiety.

"Thank you," Katherine said quietly as they neared her modest apartment.

Monica glanced at her, her expression thoughtful. "You don't need to thank me," she said. "I just want you to take care of yourself, too. Lizzie needs you strong."

Katherine nodded, a tear escaping despite her efforts to stay composed. "I'll do my best."

Monica pulled up in front of Katherine's building and turned to her. "I'll be here for you, Katherine. Whatever you need."

Katherine stepped out of the vehicle, her heart full of conflicting emotions. She glanced back at Monica, who looked at her with a mix of empathy and determination.

"Goodnight," Katherine said softly, her voice still wavering.

"Goodnight," Monica replied, her gaze lingering until Katherine closed the door.

As Katherine walked up to her apartment, she felt the weight of the day lift slightly, replaced by a flicker of hope. The generosity she'd been shown tonight was a light in her darkest hour. For the first time in weeks, she allowed herself to believe that maybe, just maybe, things could get better.

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