Chapter 6

The impact of my statement on Mabel was immense.

Had Atlas not been there to support her, she might have collapsed.

"Are you okay, Ms. Allen?" he inquired with genuine concern.

"I'm alright," she replied softly, attempting a smile that appeared forced.

Throughout the remainder of the meeting, Mabel seemed distracted and distant.

When her turn came, Atlas had to assist her in approaching my desk.

"Ridley..." she started, then quickly corrected herself, "Mr. Atticus," in an uncomfortable manner.

I responded with a simple nod and motioned for her to take a seat.

After a brief pause, she began again, "Mr. Atticus, regarding earlier..."

"No explanations are necessary," I interrupted, focusing on the documents before me. "Let's concentrate on business matters."

Despite her mental preparation, Mabel was visibly unsettled by my cold demeanor.

Previously, I had followed her instructions without question, like a devoted servant.