Chapter 5 - Meetings (2/2)

Adam turned around and scolded her politely, ”If you have something bothering your mind, just ask me Stella. No matter what it is I will answer it.” He raised his voice the slightest bit and continued, ” And at least watch where are you going. What if it was a door rather than a living person?”

”Well! Your back is no less than a door Sir.” She replied still rubbing her nose. Her snarky reply made him laugh that echoed within the quiet hallway.

He wanted to make a sarcastic remark but decided not to when he saw her misty eyes.

”You alright Stella? Should I call a doctor for you? Uhhh! Of course I should. Why am I even asking such a silly question?”

Before he could even unlock his phone, he was interrupted by Stella.

”There is no need for that Sir. It's just my nose is stinging a bit, that's why my eyes are tearing up. It will be fine in a while on its own.”

”Are you sure?” Adam asked with concern.

”Yes Sir! I am sure.”

”Okay. You should go and take some rest and there's no need for you to accompany me to the lunch meeting.”

”But it's a meeting...” She tried to speak up but was interrupted midway.

”It's just a casual lunch meeting to discuss one of the previous projects. It's not that much of a big deal. I can handle it on my own. Now off you go. Go take some rest. You can carry later on with your work.”

”As you say, Sir.”

Just as she was about to leave Adam gave her his handkerchief to wipe off her tears which has almost escaped her eyes. Seeing her hesitate, he spoke up, ”Just take it, or else my staff is going to think that I bullied a newbie.”

She took it with hesitation. No matter what, he was her boss and she wouldn't feel comfortable if he was going to be misunderstood because of her. ”Thank you.”

”You're welcome. Now, off you go.”

Adam watched her leaving as he made his way back to his office.