Chapter 52. Something’s Changing

Vanessa’s POV

The car rolled to a smooth stop in front of the company building. Mr. Garcia stepped out first, not even glancing in my direction. He walked ahead, his long strides confident with his expression unreadable.

I stayed seated for a moment, gripping the strap of my bag tightly. I inhaled. Exhaled. I could do this. I had spent the last few weeks away from here, so much so that I almost didn't remember what it was like to work in this kind of setting.

After my small mental prep, I finally stepped out—only to meet his gaze, pinning me in place.

"Scared of going in?"

I shook my head quickly and got out of the car. His warm hand found mine, his fingers slowly pressing against my cold ones. "Let's go."

The air around me shifted. Everything felt blurry as I tried to understand why he was holding my hand, walking beside me so naturally. But I found no reason.

The moment we stepped into the lobby, everything seemed to pause