RC.

Ch4 .... D

After several hours of work, my stomach is complaining of hunger. You know, that very chic and feminine sound that's impossible to master ...

I don't dare say a thing ... But I'm begging for him to be hungry too!

He raises an eyebrow and looks at me, amused.

Mark:"You're hungry, it seems. Let's not torture your stomach any longer, would you be okay with a sandwich?"

T:"Yes, absolutely!"

I switch my computer off and grab my bag to follow Mark.

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He takes me to a small sandwich store where the sandwiches look fresh and appetizing!

There are only a few people in front of us. This is a good place to know!

Mark:"I know you prefer more refined cuisine but I hope this will do."

T:"You're kidding! It's perfect!"

(I talk about work.)

T:"Do you have a little more time for yourself, now that Mr. Carter has found a new assistant?"

Mark:"Time is a funny thing. I always feel like I'm lacking it."

T:"It's this city that does that. Have you always lived in New York?"

He smiles at me.

Mark:"Not at all! I come from a small town in Illinois."

The waitress interrupts us to take our order. Mark, being a gentleman, gestures to me to begin.

A sandwich with smoked salmon.

We walk a little down the street as we eat.

T:"Do you know why Mr. Carter wanted me to become his assistant?"

Mark stares at me for a moment. My question is probably a bit abrupt but it's been lingering in my head for so long that I can't help asking it.

Mark:"This isn't the first time Mr. Carter has made such a swift decision. And up to now, he's rarely been wrong."

He suddenly seems uneasy.

Mark:"Not that I should doubt his decision, on the contrary! You are a great asset!"

I look at the passers-by while taking a bite from my sandwich. That wasn't much help...

T:"Thank you, it's kind of you."

I still don't understand why me in particular, but I can't really complain to someone as influential as Mark in the company.

Mark:"Do you have family in New York?"

(My family...)

T:"No."

I don't like to talk about my family. Difficult memories I'd rather forget.

Mark looks at me almost tenderly.

Mark:"I don't mean to pry."

(I miss them...)

T:"Not at all ! It's just ... that my family ... Let's say it's complicated."

I suddenly feel put off my food. I feel oppressed, in the dark, frightened ... I almost lose my balance.

Mark:"Are you okay?!"

T:"Yes ... It's nothing ... Just a little dizzy spell ..."

Suddenly my eyes become clouded. I feel my body weaken ...

T:"..."

I fall against Mark who quickly catches me.

Mark:"Tayla!"

I blink, breathing gently trying to come to. This time Mark's eyes are worried.

Mark:"Are you sure you're okay?"

T:"Yes, I often get like this. Don't worry. . ."

Mark:"You should eat something, you've hardly touched your sandwich."

(I'm not hunger anymore.)

T:"No, I'm not very hungry."

Mark:"Come. . ."

Mark holds me helping me over to a small wall in the shade.

I know that one day I'll have to face my demons. But Mark, despite his solicitude, is not the right person to talk to about it.

We remain silent for a few moments. I thank him inside for not trying to know more ...