Beyond The Lie

Chapter 30: "You lied to us"

Adeline.

Minutes earlier ...

As I stepped into my office, the familiar surroundings provided a sense of comfort. The receptionist greeted me with a warm smile, but I couldn't shake off the feeling that she was judging me. My mind was preoccupied with thoughts, making me sensitive to every glance.

I made my way upstairs to my cabin, where I ran into Rachel. I wasn't ready to face her questions, but to my surprise, she approached me with concern etched on her face.

"Hey, are you okay?" she asked, her voice gentle.

I nodded, trying to brush off my worries. "Yeah, just a tough week."

Rachel's expression turned sympathetic. "Do you want a cup of coffee or something?"

A smile spread across my face, grateful for her kindness. Rachel was more than just our boss; she was a mentor and a friend. She treated us like equals, not subordinates.

I nodded, accepting her offer. "Yes, please."

Rachel smiled and headed to get me a cup of coffee. As she walked into my cabin, I felt a sense of gratitude towards her. She was a reminder that not everyone was out to get me, and that I still had people who cared.

As I settled into my cabin, the familiar scent and comfortable surroundings enveloped me, providing a sense of solace. This was my third home, a place where I could escape the chaos of my life.

I collapsed into my chair, letting out a deep sigh. "Give me strength," I prayed, feeling overwhelmed. I gazed at my table, cluttered with work I had forgotten amidst the drama with Eryx. This week was crucial for collection planning and styling, and I had a lot to do.

Just then, Rachel walked in with a cup of coffee and handed it to me. "Thanks!" I said gratefully.

Rachel's expression turned serious. "We have work to do, but you look exhausted, Addie. Why don't you go home and take a break?"

I forced a smile. "Home is the last place I want to be right now."

Rachel's concern deepened. "Addie, you're not just my best designer, but also like a little sister to me. Let me tell you something about Eryx—"

I tried to interrupt, but Rachel continued, her voice gentle but firm. "You didn't do anything wrong, Adeline. Don't think that way. I know why you're hesitant to go home—it's hard to face the aftermath of keeping your relationship a secret. But wanting a private relationship isn't a crime, and standing up for yourself isn't either."

Rachel's words struck a chord within me. She was right; I hadn't done anything wrong. I thought back to the events that had transpired, and realized that maybe I had been overreacting.

Rachel's eyes locked onto mine. "If you think about it, nothing big really happened, right?"

I hesitated, considering her words. Was she right? Had I been blowing things out of proportion?

I hesitated, knowing that Rachel didn't know about the web of lies surrounding my relationship with Eryx. The word "lie" sent a shiver down my spine.

Rachel's expression turned concerned. "Your parents are worried, Addie. They've been trying to reach you, and so have I."

I took a deep breath, trying to explain. "I just needed some time alone, Rachel. I mean, some peaceful time, not alone."

Rachel's eyes sparkled with amusement. "So, you weren't alone?"

I sighed, feeling a flush rise to my cheeks. "No, I wasn't."

Rachel's smile grew wider. "Eryx isn't a bad man, Addie. He's...fine. A bit too fine, if you know what I mean."