"Owe Me One"

In the emotional whirlwind of the previous night's conversation, it had completely slipped her mind. "The kiss...," she murmured, more to herself than to Rachel.

"Yes, ma'am," Rachel confirmed. "Apparently, it's sparked a lot of rumors about your relationship with Mr Vice."

Relief washed over her, quickly replaced by a surge of annoyance. "Of course," she sighed, pinching the bridge of her nose.

Kimberly took a deep breath, trying to steady her nerves. "Thank you, Rachel. That will be all for now."

Rachel nodded and left the office, leaving Kimberly to her thoughts. Rising from her desk, she knew there was no avoiding it. She had to face Nicholas. She left her office and made her way to his, each step feeling heavier than the last.