Chapter 12: It must've been hard

                                    

                                          
Two weeks later
Elina's point of view 
Luckily, our team was able to complete the project within the deadline. The interview seemed to go well, attracting more foreign recognition and boosting the company's already solid reputation. I watched the interview and saw Sia, or better say Rylie; she had changed completely, just as her name had.
Third person's point of view
"Ms. Elina, you are requested to join all the other managers," a worker informed Elina. She nodded, understanding why she was being summoned. Taking the bouquet from her team, she walked towards the gathering of managers, spotting Fredrick waving at her with one hand while holding a bouquet in the other. Elina smiled and approached him.
"Your bouquet looks the best," Elina complimented as she stood beside him.
"Does it?" Fredrick asked, glancing at it. "I hope the CEO likes the effort I've put into it," he said, making Elina laugh a little while he smiled.
Just then, Kevin arrived, and everyone started congratulating him. He accepted their words wholeheartedly. Bouquets were being handed to him and then taken care of by Liam.
Fredrick stepped forward, saying, "Congratulations, sir, from the directing team," as he handed over his bouquet. Kevin nodded, taking it and passing it to Liam.
Next, Elina stepped forward with a smile. "Congratulations, sir, from the creative unit," she said. Kevin paused for a couple of seconds before a small nudge from Liam prompted him to take the bouquet. He nodded slightly and walked ahead.
Why did he pause like that? 
What if someone noticed? 
And why the heck was he wearing shades inside?! 
Elina thought to herself, shaking her head as she watched him walk away.
Meanwhile, Kevin and Liam entered the elevator. As soon as the doors closed, Liam spoke, "I'll update your schedule for today."
Kevin nodded, then cleared his throat. "Um, was I too obvious back there?" he asked.
Liam nodded politely. "Yes, you were."
Kevin licked his lips, nodding in acknowledgment. A silence settled between them. As soon as they exited the elevator, Kevin broke the silence.
"Can you try to get Ms. Elina's schedule and find out if she's staying late today?" he asked.
Liam nodded slightly, heading off to fulfill the request. Kevin walked into his office, finally taking off his shades and letting out a heavy breath.
_______________________
Emma's point of view at school
"Guess who?!" someone said, placing their hands over Emma's eyes. Emma blinked, trying to guess. "Jieun?" she said, turning to see Jieun pouting.
"How do you always know?!" Jieun exclaimed.
"Magic!" Emma replied with a laugh, and they both giggled as they continued to study together.
Emma and Jiho had been selected for the show, requiring them to practice together. Surprisingly, Jieun had apologized to Emma, and Emma saw no reason to hold a grudge, so she forgave her. Emma felt good about finding a good friend alongside Jiho. Occasionally, she noticed others giving her awkward or worried looks when she was with Jieun, but she shrugged it off, focusing on her priorities.
"Are you here to study with Jiho for the show?" Jieun asked.
"Yeah, he went to fetch some more books," Emma replied, sitting down while Jieun joined her.