Shadows in Glass

The office was quieter after hours– the hum of the city outside, the soft clink of glass from the cleaning crew, and the occasional ding of the elevator. Ainara sat at her desk, reviewing the final specs for the floating boardwalk. Her screen glowed against the dim room, casting soft light on her face.

She didn't hear Pia approach until the scent of jasmine and espresso reached her again.

"Still here," Pia said, placing a cup beside her. "You really don't know how to leave do you?"

Ainara looked up. "I could say the same to you."

Pia smiled, slow and unreadable. "Touché."

She perched on the edge of the desk, her cherry-red nails tapping lightly against the folder Ainara had just closed.

"You know," Pia began, "Nakatrabaho ko na si Sir Andres for four years. Nakita ko kung paano umiyak ang mga interns, 'yong mga executive nagkakagulo at 'yong ibang board members na nagmakaawa. Pero ikaw? Pagdating sa 'yo, iba."

"What do you mean?" Wala sa loob na tanong niya.

"You make him pause."

"P