The next morning—
The atmosphere felt heavier.
Lina still greeted everyone.
"Good morning!"
But this time—
Fewer people responded.
She noticed.
Of course she did.
Still…
She smiled anyway.
Inside his office, Adrian reviewed documents—
Until raised voices outside caught his attention.
"…It's obvious, isn't it?"
"She's getting special treatment—"
"Lower your voice—"
"Why? It's true!"
Adrian stood.
Walked out.
Silence fell instantly.
Everyone froze.
His gaze swept across the room.
Cold.
Sharp.
"Who said that?"
No one answered.
No one dared.
But Adrian didn't need an answer.
"I don't tolerate baseless gossip," he said calmly.
Which made it even more terrifying.
"If anyone here believes they understand my decisions better than I do…"
A pause.
"Submit your resignation."
No one moved.
No one spoke.
"Focus on your work," he added.
And just like that—
It was over.
But the message was clear.
Crystal clear.
From across the room—
Lina stared at him.
Surprised.
Confused.
Something warm stirred in her chest.
Later that day—
She quietly approached his office.
"Sir…"
"Yes?"
"…You didn't have to do that."
"I did."
"For me?"
A pause.
Then—
"For the company."
Lina looked at him for a moment.
Then smiled softly.
"…Still. Thank you."
Adrian didn't respond.
But he didn't deny it either.