Chapter 80

The next day, Cody brought a bunch of popsicles and started handing them out in the office. He passed one to Maria. The cold treat instantly took the edge off the heat, and with everyone enjoying a brief break from work, the mood lightened and laughter filled the room. After wrapping up her last bit of work, Maria stretched lazily, unwrapped the popsicle, and took a bite—just as the office went oddly silent. Something felt off. Curious, she walked out, looked up, and locked eyes with Amelia. Well, that explained the sudden hush. Amelia was holding a lunchbox. A second ago, she’d been chatting away with Cody, but the moment she saw Maria, her smile froze. A second later, a sharp snort escaped her lips. “The company’s hiring you to create actual results, not to coast by and enjoy perks.” She didn’t lower her voice. Everyone nearby heard it loud and clear. Instantly, they all scrambled back to their desks, too nervous to even breathe loud. Maria, on the other hand, was totally unbothered.