As the morning sun filtered through floor‑to‑ceiling windows, I settled into my desk in the graphic design department. Joonseo disappeared into his private office, and I tried to focus—but something felt off.
"Nakyung!" I greeted with a cautious smile.
She returned it, but her expression wavered.
"Good morning, Minji."
"Good morning."
She tapped lightly on the edge of my desk.
"Long time no see—in the office."
"I was a little sick yesterday," I said.
"How are you feeling now?"
"Better, thanks."
My words were halting, uneasy. Then Nakyung leaned in, voice low.
"Listen—there's been a lot going on today."
My pulse quickened.
"You mean…?"
"Look, Ms Misoo and Jieun were chatting non‑stop all morning. Probably about you."
My stomach dropped.
"About me?"
She nodded.
"Yeah. Ms Misoo even asked if you'd shown up today."
