Embracing Her Comfort

Previously: 

"Bai, remember that you don't have to go through this alone," she insisted, "I told you that I'm here for you. Just like you've always been there for me."

Bai looked at her then, his eyes filled with gratitude and sadness.

"Thank you, Lai," he said softly, "That means more to me than you'll ever know."

Lai smiled, hoping to offer him some small comfort.

"Anytime, Bai," she said, squeezing his shoulder gently before turning to leave, "Just remember, I've got your back."

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

As she walked to her seat, Lai couldn't help but feel a sense of unease settle over her.

Lai sat at her desk, her eyes flickering to the clock on the wall. It was well past the usual hours, but Bai, her boss, remained seated behind his desk, his eyes fixed on the screen of his laptop.

His usual air of confidence seemed to have dissipated, replaced by a subtle tension that hung heavy in the air.