You Are Mine Little Sister (by Syra Tucker) novel Chapter 102

RALI

The engine rumbled to a stop, slipping into place between the maze of parked cars.

My head leaned against the headrest, eyes slipping shut as I pulled in a breath meant to steady me. It didn't.

"We can do this, Rali." Veronica's hand found my thigh. "You won't be alone for a single second. I promise."

Looking out the window, My eyes landed on the bold signage crowning the tall structure: Fable and Fabric.

My stomach twisted.

So this would be the last time I'd see it like this.

Moments later, we were stepping through the glass doors into the busy reception. The air inside smelled of fresh polish and artificial lemon, exactly the same as always.

A few of the staff that knew me appeared surprised as the knit tank top and wide-leg beige slacks didn't look work-ready.

I avoided their eyes, shrinking into myself as we moved toward the elevator.

But the real trial came on my floor.

The moment the elevator opened, I was swallowed by friendly faces and the buzz of confused voices.

"Rali?"

"You're late today—everything okay?"

"That's not your usual outfit…"

"Are you here to call in sick?"

"You could've just emailed, you know."

I bled inside and answered each one with the softest deflections I could muster.

I caught sight of Evie in the corner. She leaned with a mean look on her face and didn't come over. Thank goodness.

At last, Veronica and I made it to Grayson's office.

He was there, calmly seated and typing one-handed.

My chest pulled in on itself, tight like it had been zipped shut from the inside.

The flashbacks were violent:

Slammed against the wall. «Don't waste your breath, Ze. Trust me, I've got every one here under my wraps.»

«You should relax and enjoy this, Zerali»

My hand tightened on the strap of my bag.

God. This man was rot in human skin.

"Zerali."

My name in his voice made my soul recoil. I never thought I'd hate the sound of my name on someone's tongue until now.

I stood intentionally far from his desk.

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