"Good morning… Ms. Mercer."The hesitation came before her name.Isla paused just long enough to acknowledge it, then turned her head slightly toward the reception desk. Clara sat behind it, posture straight, smile polite, but not quite steady. The kind of smile people wore when they weren’t sure what version of you they were supposed to address."Good morning, Clara."There was a brief silence.Clara adjusted a file on her desk, then looked back up, curiosity slipping through professionalism."So… you’re back?"The question was careful, almost respectful, but it still carried weight.Isla held her gaze for a moment."Was I expected not to be?"Clara blinked, clearly not prepared for that answer. "I just...well, after everything, I thought...""You thought wrong," Isla said gently.Not sharp. Not rude.Just… final.She didn’t wait for a response.She turned and walked toward the elevators, the quiet murmur of the lobby settling behind her like something unfinished.She wore black.Not
Last Updated : 2026-03-28 Read more