"Yes," Stella replied.
Lucas also paused, his voice sounding as if something were stuck in his throat.
His tone grew colder and more distant. "Alright, I understand."
Stella didn't know what else to say. The warmth between them just moments ago seemed to have vanished in an instant.
Lucas said, "I might need a few more days before I return. If anything comes up, call me."
"I know. You focus on your work. Don't worry about me. Everything's fine here." Stella buried her thoughts, and the questions she wanted to ask never made it past her lips.
Lucas's lips moved slightly, but all he said was, "Alright."
"I'm almost at Green Group, so I'll hang up now." Stella could already see the Green Group building. Just two more intersections, and she'd be there.
Stella was driving her newly boug
