Joseph halted his steps abruptly, as if debating whether to extend a lifeline or plunge her deeper into turmoil. "I'll be at Blue Bridge tonight for a social event. If you're serious about keeping your job, you might consider showing up."
Yolanda clenched her hands, aware that negotiating with him wouldn't be easy.
Yet, with no other options, she bit her lip and compromised, "Understood."
While Joseph headed upstairs, Yolanda busied herself with clearing the dining table. She then tried to rest in the living room but found herself unable to sleep.
It wasn't until the early hours of the morning that she managed to drift off.
When she awoke, it was nearly noon. She hadn't showered all night, so taking advantage of Joseph's absence, she went upstairs.
Pushing open her bedroom door, she
