Unbreakable Thread (ɢxɢ) [𝑪𝑶𝑴𝑷𝑳𝑬𝑻𝑬𝑫] [UNDER REVISION] ⚠️

Chapter 3

"In the vast symphony of unspoken words, a delicate confession tiptoes upon a fragile melody, seeking comfort in the whispered secrets of the heart."

****

The months rolled by, each day at Escover Enterprises weaving my connection with Ms. Klineigh tighter into my life. What began as admiration for her intellect and leadership had transformed into something far deeper—something that refused to be ignored. Our bond had begun to stray beyond the confines of professionalism that fills my thoughts even in the quietest of moments.

There were times when she'd pass by my desk during the day, her gaze briefly lingering as she offered a nod of acknowledgment. Her presence carried an unspoken weight, a magnetic pull that drew my attention even when I tried to focus on my work. Then there were the meetings—those hour-long discussions where I found myself stealing glances at her as she commanded the room with poise and precision. I often wondered if anyone else noticed the way her gaze would occasionally drift toward me, as if seeking reassurance.

One particularly memorable moment happened late one evening when most of the office had already emptied out. I was finalizing a report, lost in the rhythm of my typing, when the sound of footsteps broke the silence. Looking up, I saw Ms. Klineigh standing by the entrance to my cubicle.

"Still working this late, Ms. Buenavista?" she asked, her voice tinged with amusement.

I straightened in my chair, a nervous smile playing on my lips. "Just finishing up a few things, Miss. Deadlines don't wait."

She chuckled softly, stepping closer. "They certainly don't. But even the most dedicated employees need to know when to call it a day."

There was something in her tone—a softness that felt out of place for someone as composed and commanding as her. She leaned slightly on the edge of my desk, her eyes scanning the report on my screen.

"Let me see," she said, motioning for me to turn the laptop toward her.

I did as instructed, watching as she reviewed my work. The proximity was unnerving; her perfume—a subtle mix of citrus and cedar—was intoxicating.

"This is good," she finally said, meeting my gaze. "You have an eye for detail. Not everyone does."

"Thank you, Miss," I replied, my voice barely above a whisper.

She lingered for a moment longer, her gaze unreadable. Then, as if realizing she'd overstayed, she straightened and offered a small smile. "Don't stay too late, Shai. We need you at your best tomorrow."

It was the first time she'd called me by my first name. The sound of it on her lips sent an inexplicable thrill through me, one I tried to dismiss as a mere byproduct of admiration.

****

After I gathered up my things to go home, my phone vibrated, interrupting my thoughts of collapsing into bed after a long day at work. Pulling it out, I noticed a message from Mr. Anderson.

~~~

EEA GC

From Mr. Anderson: Hi, everyone! Just a reminder that tomorrow is our company outing at La Escover Resort. Don't forget to bring extra clothes, sunscreen, and lots of energy. Let's make it a fun and relaxing day!

~~~

I blinked at the message, momentarily confused. Company outing? Oh, right, the email. It had come through earlier in the week, but amidst the deadlines and reports, I hadn't given it much thought. I considered skipping it—company outings weren't exactly my idea of relaxation. But as I scrolled through the group chat, the enthusiastic replies from my colleagues made me pause.