“Everything needs to be in place. I can't afford this proposal to flop” Jarrel muttered under his breath, adjusting the knot of his tie for the third time.
Two years of being his secretary and you noticed the way his index finger tapped rhythmically against his thigh. He's anxious.
“The venue will be La Costas Ria” he clicked through the presentation. “Perfect for creating the serene, premium atmosphere we’re aiming for…”
Click. The screen flickered. Your photo. Not some candid team shot or party. It's you alone, his wallpaper.
Gasped rustled through the room. Jarrel’s entire body went rigid. His eyes widened in unfiltered panic. He clicked back to the slide deck, cleared his throat, and kept his eyes anywhere except you.
“I—I'm sorry,” he stammered. “Uh… as I was saying… La Costas Ria offers exclusivity and elegance…”
Everyone's out with claps and laughter for the successful proposal.
You stayed behind, silently collecting empty coffee cups. Jarrel sat slouched, laptop open again.
“About earlier…” his voice low, careful. He just stared at the glowing screen in front of him. “I think someone… messed with my laptop.”
You turned to look at him, eyebrow raised. Finally, he lifted his gaze
“Just…” he exhaled softly, trying to hide embarrassment. “Forget about it."