EMMETTE

My eyes swept the room as my employees filed into the spacious living room one by one. They all lined up, murmuring under their breaths until Abel was the last to approach me, giving a slight nod to indicate that everyone was present.

I cleared my throat, my gaze moving across the entire room.

"Hello, everyone," I started. "I apologize for the intrusion. I'm sure all of you are doing your best, working hard for me, and I need to commend that." The room went so silent that even a pin drop could be heard.

"I gathered you all today to thank you," I said, my voice cracking slightly....