I somehow managed to cover the bruises with foundation, but there was nothing I could do about my sunken cheeks. When I arrived at work, I went straight to Viktor Ivanovich’s office. He looked so pleased about something that my desire to deliver bad news noticeably faded. I began to retreat, but he stopped me.
“Verochka, go on—what is it you wanted to talk about?”
“Viktor Ivanovich, this is awkward for me to say, but I want to resign.”
My boss froze, staring at me intently. His good mood vanished in an instant.
“Vera, are you joking? What happened? Is it about your salary? I can raise it.”
“I’m sorry, but it’s not about work. I’ve found myself in a complicated life situation, and I’m planning to move to another city.”
“Are you sure about this decision?”
“Yes,” I replied, hesitating
