Chapter 16

The next day, Neal was about to go downstairs for lunch when Joyce came in with a lunch box. "You haven't eaten, have you, Neal? I brought you some food. Let's have lunch together," she said as she placed the lunchbox on his table. To her surprise, he stopped her. "No need. I'm going down for lunch." Neal's rejection was firm, but Joyce refused to give up. She smiled awkwardly and pushed the lunchbox in his direction. "I brought this just for you. Just take it…" Before she could finish, a shrill male voice came from behind her. "Joyce Slater, I packed that lunchbox for you! How could you take my thoughtful gesture and give it to someone else?" Neal turned and realized that he knew the newcomer too. It was Corey Swank. Corey's voice was shrill and harsh. It was especially grating on the ears in the middle of the quiet office. The other office workers couldn't help but frown. Neal pushed the lunchbox back at Joyce. In contrast to her panicked expression, he looked incredibly cal