~LAUREN’S POV~

I moved through the office like a shadow, slipping past curious eyes and muffled whispers. I had mastered the art of invisibility, but today, it felt like everyone’s gaze was on me.

I tightened her grip on the stack of files in my arms, focusing on the hum of the Air conditioner above. Anything to drown out the world around me.

The break room door was ajar, and despite my instinct to keep walking, a familiar voice made me pause.

"...still can't believe she's with Alexandro now.” Patrick’s voice was filled with disbelief.

I froze. My pulse quickened as I ducked behind a corner. “Yeah, right. If I...