The wave of nausea had hit me like a freight train, leaving me reeling and disoriented. By the time I got my bearings, I found myself in one of the plush lounges adjacent to the boardroom. Adrian was there, leaning against the doorframe, a mask of concern shadowing his striking features.
My cheeks flamed with embarrassment. "I'm so sorry," I began, but he held up a hand to silence me.
"Are you okay?" he asked, his voice soft but commanding.
I took a moment, steadying my breathing. "Yes, just... I don't know what came over me."
Adrian pushed off the doorframe and took a step closer. "You don't have to explain. Just tell me if you're okay."
His genuine concern caught me off guard. I wasn't used to this side of Adrian – the side that cared about people, about me. But before I could thank him, he continued, "Did Derek say something to you? Before today, I mean."