She looked hurt and baffled. I wanted to open my mouth to explain.
“Idle gossip,” I whispered softly. She nodded.
I grappled with an emotion that was convoluted, but becoming more familiar by the day.
Feeling sorry for her and myself at the same time.
Wishing we could both be happy, but knowing we never could be at the same time.
I smiled at Maya, cleared my throat, and walked briskly into the break room.
“That’s enough,” I said coldly.
Laila and Elle both looked down toward their feet.
“Get back to work,” I said quickly. I spoke quietly in part because the nausea was threatening to overtake me. But my voice sounded tense and authoritative. They nodded and immediately exited the room.
I peered around the doorframe after they left and waved Maya into the break room. She c
