Chapter 64

Checking those reports wasn’t exactly rocket science, just kinda mind-numbing and really straining on the eyes. Even though Cody had been super helpful, Maria was clearly feeling worse—her coughs were getting more frequent thanks to that cold. By noon, Grace had ordered lunch, and James finally let them take a break. Knowing Maria wasn’t well, Grace thoughtfully picked something light for her. But Maria barely touched it. She just didn’t have an appetite—every bite made her stomach turn a little. “Ms. Lewis, why don’t you take a break? There aren’t many reports left. I can handle the rest,” Cody said with concern. Maria looked over at James, who was buried in work, and then politely declined, “It’s okay, I can keep going.” With James keeping silent, how could she just leave? Especially with how petty he could be—after the fight yesterday, she knew he wouldn’t say yes anyway. Cody picked up on her hesitation and sighed quietly, helpless. Right then, James called Grace over and whispered