The Picture

Chapter Fifteen – The Picture

Alina’s Pov

“Everybody, gather here,” she said loudly. “I have something interesting to show you.”

I felt my stomach twist. I already knew what it was. My heart began to race as the staff gathered around her desk. She waved her phone, and then with a smirk, she turned it to everyone.

On the screen was the picture. Me, stepping out of Lucien’s car. His hand near me like he was helping me. The angle looked so intimate. My knees almost gave way.

Gasps filled the office. Murmurs started. Someone whispered, “That’s her? That’s Alina.”

Vanessa crossed her arms, smiling proudly. “See? Our little probation staff here is already clinging to my man. Isn’t that shameless?”

Laughter broke out from some corners. Whispers turned into louder voices. My hands shook. I stood, trying to explain, but my throat was dry.

“It’s not what you think,” I finally said, my voice trembling. “He saw me on the street and helped me, that’s all.”

“Helped you?” one staff repeated with sarcasm. “Since when does the CEO help anyone?”

Another woman scoffed. “He sees me wait for taxis every morning. Has he ever stopped? No. But he stopped for you? Who are you really?”

Their voices stabbed me from every side. I swallowed hard, tears threatening to fall.

“I swear…” I tried again, “there’s nothing like that. He was just—”

Vanessa snapped her fingers, cutting me off. “Enough of your lies. You think you’re special? Don’t forget you’re still on probation. You’re not even officially one of us yet.” She stepped closer, her eyes cold. “And I promise you, with my influence, you will never be confirmed as a staff. You’ll be thrown out before you can blink.”

My heart broke. This job was all I had left. My only chance to survive. My voice cracked as I whispered, “Please… please don’t do this…”

Vanessa smirked, tilting her head like she enjoyed my begging. “Beg louder. Let everyone hear how desperate you are.”

I shook my head, unable to stop my tears. My body trembled so much I could hardly stand.

Then, suddenly, a sharp sting exploded on my cheek. Someone had slapped me. The sound echoed in the office. Gasps filled the air. I touched my face in shock, staring at the person who hit me.

“You cheap girl,” the woman hissed. “Climbing up using your body!”

Before I could react, someone else shoved a dirty tissue at me. Then another threw a crumpled paper. Soon, little pieces of trash were flying toward me. Laughter mixed with insults filled the room.

I covered my face, my tears soaking my hands. My whole body shook. Shame burned through me. I wanted the ground to open and swallow me.

“Look at her,” Vanessa said loudly, her voice dripping with triumph. “This is what happens when you try to steal what’s mine.”

“Please…” My voice was barely a whisper as I begged. “Please stop…”

But they didn’t stop. The insults grew louder. My ears rang. My vision blurred with tears. I wanted to run, but my legs were weak.

And then—

The door opened.

The sound of strong footsteps entered the room. The laughter and voices died instantly. Silence swallowed the office.

I slowly lifted my head, my face red, my eyes swollen.

There he was.

Lucien.

Standing at the door, his eyes cold, sharp, and terrifying.