CHAPTER EIGHTY-EIGHT - CROSSING THE LINE

  Over the next few weeks, Justin's behavior grew increasingly erratic. Elaborate flower arrangements began arriving at Nia's desk, each accompanied by romantic notes that her coworkers couldn't help but notice. The whispers and sidelong glances in the hallways grew more frequent, and Nia found herself constantly on edge, waiting for Justin's next move. The situation came to a head at a company event. Nia stood near the bar, engaged in polite conversation with some of the board members, when she felt a hand on her arm. She turned to find Justin, his eyes glassy and his breath heavy with the scent of champagne. "Nia, we need to talk," Justin slurred, pulling her away from the group. "Justin, you're drunk," Nia hissed, trying to extricate herself from his grip. "This isn't the time or place for whatever you think you need to say." But Justin was persistent, backing Nia into a quiet corner. "I can't stand it anymore, Nia. Seeing you with Leon, pretending there's nothing between us.