CHAPTER 28 CLOCK IS TICKING.

The office was still tinged with the remnants of scandal, the air heavy with the aftermath of accusations and suspicions. Amelia, usually the vibrant heartbeat of the workplace, found herself withdrawing into a cocoon of hurt and disappointment. The theft scandal had cast shadows not only on the integrity of the office but also on her relationship with Mark. In the days that followed, a palpable tension lingered between them. Amelia, wounded by the lack of trust, decided to wield the silent treatment as a shield against the pain that threatened to consume her. The once lively exchanges between her and Mark dwindled into a cold and distant silence. Mark, sensing the growing chasm, attempted to bridge the gap. "Amelia, can we talk? I hate seeing you like this." Amelia, her eyes reflecting a mix of hurt and anger, remained silent, her gaze fixed on the computer screen in front of her. Mark, undeterred, continued, "I understand you're upset. I want to explain my actions. It was