Sarah stood frozen for what felt like an eternity, Nicole’s piercing gaze still searing into her even as the conversation around the room carried on.
It was only Mr. Henley’s voice, tight with concern, that jolted her back to reality.
“Sarah? Are you okay?”
Sarah blinked hard, inhaling deeply to steady herself. The conference room seemed to close in on her, the soft murmurs of executives blending into a hum of static.
Her palms were clammy, her heart pounding in her chest. Nicole’s presence felt like a cruel hallucination, but she couldn’t falter now.
“I’m fine,” Sarah said quickly, forcing a tight smile. “Sorry, just… caught off guard.”
Mr. Henley raised a dubious eyebrow, but there wasn't time for any further questions. The Griffins Industries team was waiting, and Nicole, seated
