Anna stepped into the elevator and rode it up in silence, her reflection staring back at her from the mirrored walls. By the time the doors slid open on her floor, she had already pulled herself together, or at least, she hoped she had.
She had barely taken a few steps toward her office when, as expected, a familiar voice cut through the air.
Claire.
"Anna, are you okay?" Claire asked loudly, tilting her head in mock concern. "You look… exhausted. Overworking yourself again, or just not used to the pressure?"
It was almost impressive how consistent she was. Like she couldn't survive a single day without throwing a jab in Anna's direction, as though cruelty was part of her morning routine. Anna didn't bother responding. She had long learned that silence unsettled Claire more than any sharp comeback ever could.
As Anna walked past, she noticed something was off.
