Semua Bab MY SECRETARY HATES ME? [ ENGLISH VER. ] : Bab 21 - Bab 30

Two weeks later…October 21.The day my room turns into a boiling pot of emotions.The day I cry into my pillow like it’s a full-time job.The day that should’ve been the happiest date on my yearly calendar—but instead, it never fails to break me.My birthday.I walked through the plaza carrying a bouquet of flowers. There weren’t many people around anymore; late afternoon had painted everything in a soft, quiet glow. The place was beautiful—trees everywhere, a small playground, a gentle breeze. Anyone else would find peace here.But not me. Not today.Because today was also the day I lost the woman who raised me when my parents didn’t—the grandmother who became my entire world. She died on my birthday, and since then, every year felt less like a celebration and more like a wound reopening.I sat on a bench near a huge tree, leaned back, and looked up at a sky slowly being swallowed by dusk. A few people passed by, happy, laughing, living their lives freely. My vision blurred before I

A few days passed, and Sir Asher had practically become a daily visitor at the company. And honestly? I was thrilled. I mean—who wouldn’t be? Getting to see him every day felt like an unexpected blessing from the universe.And today? He actually invited me to have lunch with him.My boss wasn’t here—apparently he had “important matters” in Cebu. I asked what he was doing there, but he hit me with a cold, “It’s none of your business.” Rude. He’d been there for three days already, so Sir Asher was temporarily managing the company.Which is why… here I am. Agreeing to join him for lunch, because let’s be real—who am I to refuse that smile?We returned to the same restaurant Francis brought me to the other day. I still remembered when he said we’d always eat here during lunch. But since he wasn’t around, I was with his brother instead.The same waiter approached us—the one who helped us last time. He looked surprised. Maybe he remembered me? Or maybe he noticed I wasn’t with the same man.

I have no idea how long I’ve been standing in front of the company doors, just staring blankly while waiting for the rain to stop.My mind’s been drowning in thoughts, and I didn’t even notice it was getting dark already.Why is it that whenever I actually bring an umbrella, it never rains — but the moment I leave it at home, the sky decides to attack me?Great. How am I supposed to go home now?And as if that’s not enough, my brain keeps replaying what happened earlier.I bit my finger as the guilt crept in again. I don’t know why I still feel bad about it.Was what I said wrong? Was I the one at fault? Ugh!And there it goes — the flashback hits me right in the face.---[ FLASHBACK ]“Why aren’t you eating?” my boss asked.We were at our usual lunch spot. The food looked delicious, but for some reason, I felt full — or maybe just not in the mood. That awkward atmosphere again.“I’m not hungry,” I replied, bored.Of course, he ignored me. What’s new.Since I had nothing to do, I jus

“Your pout reaches the floor, you know,” my cousin teased, arching an eyebrow as I adjusted my seat.“What’s your problem? You’ve been like this since morning,” she continued.“Uh… let me rephrase that,” she added with a smirk. “Your pout’s been going strong since the other day. What happened to you?”I scowled, irritation rising.“Who did you inherit that mouth from? Always gossiping!” I snapped.She shrugged, unbothered.“Temper’s hot, huh? But tell me, why are you always scowling like that?”I averted my gaze.“Nothing. Just… my thing,” I mumbled.“Is that so? Wow, impressive,” she replied sarcastically.“Oh, look, Sir Locan! He’s looking for you,” she added.I turned sharply to see who she meant. My stomach sank.There he was, Francis, striding toward us with Ms. Akeshia hanging on his arm. My chest tightened as my gaze followed them. She had been visiting the company almost four times this week alone.And him… my boss… completely calm. Like the near-kiss incident never happened.

Next DayI kept my eyes glued to the floor as I walked toward the elevator. I wasn’t avoiding Francis—of course not. I knew we’d bump into each other eventually—but for now… please, just not yet.Inside the elevator, there were only two people: a woman and a janitor. I positioned myself in between them and let out a deep breath.The doors opened, and just my luck, I ran into my cousin. I quickly dragged her to the side, near the fire exit.“Ouch! What’s your problem?” she asked, annoyed, as I released her hand.“What happened to me last night? Why did you let me go with Francis?” I demanded.“Well, you were drunk, and he insisted on taking you home. I trust him,” she explained. “Wait… why are you asking that? Did something happen?”“Nothing. Just curious. Why is that a problem?” I replied, leaving her behind.As I approached Francis’ office, I paused at the door. Should I go in or not? What was I afraid of, Gianna? Just act like last night didn’t affect you. Okay?I took a deep breath