Chapter 14

"Are you actually firing me?" Juliette asked, clearly shocked.

"Yes, I am," Ryan confirmed.

"Um...why? Why are you firing me? I demand -and deserve- an explanation," Juliette insisted.

"You don't know why?" Ryan questioned.

"If I knew why, I wouldn't bother asking you in the first place," Juliette responded, her tone changing.

Ryan stood up from his seat, his movements tense yet purposeful as he moved towards Juliette. He reached out, gently resting his hands on her waist and pulling her closer, until she was standing between his legs. His touch both comforting and confusing.

"H-hey, calm down, pretty lady. It's not that serious," Ryan stuttered, trying to regain control of the situation. His touch lingered, his fingers absentmindedly stroking her hair as he spoke.

"We have something special, right?" Ryan whispered, gently stroking her hair. But Juliette remained silent.

"Don't you want to talk to me?" Ryan pressed.

"Why are you firing me?" Juliette asked, her voice filled with confu