CHAPTER 9: Miss Moore
The clock on the wall mocked me with its relentless ticking. Lunchtime. My stomach grumbled in agreement, but the thought of navigating the cafeteria with Sarah and Emily's watchful eyes held no appeal. Just as I was about to gather my things and make a solo escape, the office door swung open, revealing Vance, the head of IT. Unlike the rest of the seemingly homogenous executive team, Vance sported a relaxed demeanor, his tie perpetually askew, and a hint of amusement twinkling in his hazel eyes.
"Heading out, Evie?" he asked, his voice a welcome change from the clipped tones I'd grown accustomed to.
"Just grabbing some lunch," I replied, forcing a smile.
"Actually," he said, leaning against the doorframe, "Mr. Westcott requested your presence for lunch. In his office."
My stomach lurched. Lunch with Alexander? Alone? This wasn't part of the plan. "Are you sure there isn't some misunderstanding?" I stammered.