Neighbors

Lucia stood in the cafeteria, mechanically preparing three cups of coffee.

The rhythmic clinking of cups against the counter and the hiss of the coffee machine felt distant, a hollow noise against the growing frustration in her mind.

She could barely believe she was doing this—serving coffee to the men who had done nothing but torment her.

Her fingers trembled slightly as she grabbed sugar packets, arranging them on the tray with forced precision.

She then placed the tray in front of her and let out a long, slow breath.

Today was just another day in this ridiculous charade, and she had to get through it.

As the elevator doors opened on the top floor, where the CEO's offices were, Lucia hesitated for just a second before stepping out, the tray balanced in her hands.

Each step toward the office felt like it took more effort than it should.

She could almost feel their smug grins waiting for her on the other side of that door.