Chapter 14

"Sir, please, let me explain myself," Patricia pleaded, following him to his office.

He turned swiftly, his expression demanding an explanation. "What do you have to say? That your alarm clock malfunctioned and you overslept? Or perhaps there was heavy traffic on your way here? Are those the excuses you're going to give?"

"No," she lied, the words slipping from her mouth against her better judgment. In truth, she wanted to tell him that her clock had stopped working, causing the alarm to go off at the wrong time. But now, hearing him say it out loud, it sounded like a terrible excuse. And it was.

She bowed her head, avoiding eye contact, trying to make him feel her fear.

He nibbled on his lower lip, his arms folded across his chest, staring at her intently. Perched on the edge of his desk, he observed her for a moment before speaking. "If that's not the reason, then tell me a better excuse."

She sniffed, adding a few tears for effect. "Sir, it's not an excuse. It's the truth." He rolle