Sara returned to the president's office, unaware of the buzz on social media. She carried a cup of coffee, and when Alex looked up, surprise flashed across his face—he hadn't expected her back so soon. A smile tugged at his lips as the aroma of the coffee filled the room.
For a moment, time seemed to freeze as their eyes met. The intensity of his gaze unsettled Sara, but she held her ground, her steps steady and purposeful.
"I don't remember asking for this," Alex said, briefly glancing at the time before focusing back on her.
Reaching his desk, she placed the coffee down. "This is my way of saying thank you," she replied. "You've been a big help to me." Sara stepped back but stayed in place, waiting to see if he would accept the gesture. Her heart skipped when she saw his smile widen, and then he stood, pushing his chair back.