Chapter 260. Stay Cool, Asher

ASHER

“I’m sorry, Auntie…” I pouted, leaning in to kiss Auntie Marie on the cheek, holding the kiss just a little longer to soften her up. “I’ll be off early later, I promise. I’ll even bring home your favorite boneless chicken, Jack Daniels flavor, to add to our dishes for the New Year’s Eve dinner…” I grinned, hoping the bribe would work.

Auntie gave me a half-smile, but I could tell she was still trying to convince me to skip work. She was pushing for me to join their plans for the day—cooking together and binge-watching that new hit thriller series. I shook my head, giving her a pleading look as I held her hands.

“I really can’t, Auntie,” I said, my voice almost a whisper. “It’s way too late to ask for leave now. Plus, I already used up a sick day recently.” I rubbed the back of my neck, feeling the weight of her disappointed gaze. “I’m sure the head and HR are already keeping an eye on me, so I really can’t risk it.”

“Asher will lose his job if he