Esther shut her laptop and stacked her files straight. She smoothed her skirt, then nodded to the desk beside her.
“Have a good evening, everyone. See you tomorrow.”
“You too, Esther. Sleep well.” One of her coworkers whispered.
She exchanged quiet words with three more colleagues. No one rushed her. No one spoke sharply.
As she reached for her bag, Margaret looked up from her screen. Her tone was sharp, loud enough for those nearby to hear.
“Always rushing to get home meanwhile you came to work late today.”
Esther paused for half a beat. She met Margaret’s gaze calmly, gave a small, polite nod, and said nothing. She turned and walked out without looking back.
When she stepped out to the car, the air felt soft and warm.
She settled into the seat and rested her head back.
Her fing
