The elevator doors slid open with a soft chime, and Marian stepped out into the sleek, marble-floored lobby of Carson Enterprises. Her heels clicked against the polished surface, the rhythmic sound matching the steady beat of her nerves.
First day, she reminded herself. Just the introduction, the briefing, then the files.
She’d done this a hundred times before—new office, new faces, new expectations. But for some reason, this one felt heavier. Maybe it was being back in LA again, surrounded by the ghosts she thought she’d left behind.
She adjusted the strap of her bag and began walking toward the reception desk when a soft voice interrupted her thoughts.
“Excuse me. Can you please help me? I’m looking for the restroom.”
Marian looked down—and blinked.
Standing before her was a little
