Defiance

Once again, Melody was engulfed by a wave of guilt as Sarah's question lingered in the air. The weight of her secret pressed heavily on her conscience, threatening to overshadow the joy of their conversation.

She took a deep breath, steeling herself for what she knew she had to do. With a heavy heart, Melody mustered the strength to respond to Sarah's question.

"Oh, you know... I just felt like it was time for a change. I wanted to explore new opportunities and follow my passions," she replied, trying to keep her answer vague.

There was a brief pause on the other end of the line before Sarah's voice filled with excitement.

"Isn't it because of Morgan that you quit the office?" Sarah asked, her tone curious and probing.

Melody's heart skipped a beat at the question. The truth hovered on the tip of her tongue, but fear held her back. She couldn't bring herself to admit the real reason behind her resignation, not yet.