Lemira’s heart skipped a beat as Orion’s face loomed closer to hers, her mind blanking out in the moment. Suddenly, voices from outside snapped them back to reality.
Lemira quickly turned her head away from his embrace and dashed out the door without looking back. Orion stood there, his gaze darkening, unconsciously touching his lips.
He had to admit, some things were beyond his control.
Like wanting to be near her, to hold her, to kiss her.
Leaning against the wall, he rubbed his shoulders and instinctively lit a cigarette.
Outside, Lemira stopped to catch her breath, her cheeks flushed as she noticed in the restroom mirror.
She splashed her face with cold water, trying to calm down before stepping out.
Glancing towards the emergency exit, she wondered if Orion had followed but didn’t check, heading straight back to the office.
Entering the conference room, it seemed everyone had arrived.
Thaddeus, sitting at the head of the table, raised an eyebrow at Lemira’s quick return and her noticeable blush.
What’s the matter? Someone had a comforting chat? he teased.
Lemira kept her head down, silent.
Thaddeus then started the meeting, Alright, let’s begin.
The project lead, Mr. Orion, isn’t here yet, someone pointed out.
Lemira felt Thaddeus’ eyes on her as Orion’s absence was mentioned.
Thaddeus just smiled, Let’s not wait for him. We’ll start.
Distracted, Lemira fumbled with her documents but soon focused, detailing a solution for a bug they’d found.
Thaddeus, observing her dedication, texted Orion: Meeting’s started. How’d you cheer Lemon up so quickly? Share your secret. Orion’s blunt reply: Buzz off!
Thaddeus smirked, knowing well Orion’s actions contradicted his words.
After the meeting, Lemira finally took
a
to drink some water,
noticing Orion had returned to his
office, which she had overlooked earlier.
She avoided his gaze, but Orion watched her, her earlier vulnerability contrasting sharply with her current professionalism.
Thaddeus teased Orion about his failed attempt at comfort, hinting at an unspoken tension.
As everyone dispersed, Lemira packed up, telling Thaddeus she’d head back to her studies but would remain available for the project. Take the weekend off, Lemon. Rest up, Thaddeus suggested.
Her glance briefly met Orion’s before she hurried out, ignoring his offer to drive her home. Thanks, but I’ll catch a cab, she said, speeding up her pace.
Orion watched her leave, Thaddeus teasing voice in his ear, What kind of comfort did you offer? She runs from you like a mouse from a cat.
SUMS
Mind your own business, bachelor, Orion retorted, following Lemira out.
Thaddeus, in mock offense, pointed at himself, Bachelor? Look who’s talking You’ve got a long way to go
if you’re chasing after that one. You
haven’t even started the trials yet!