Then, noticing the large bento box Ashley had been carrying the entire time, Lily instinctively reached out to help her set it down.
Before she could lift it, Ashley gently tapped the back of her hand.
"Careful," Ashley said softly, her tone calm and considerate. "It's heavy."
She quickly explained it that way so the girl wouldn't misunderstand her action or think she was being aloof or unwilling to let others touch her belongings.
"Oh! Okay!" Lily replied immediately. She cast the bento box a curious glance but wisely didn't pry any further. Instead, she enthusiastically threw herself into explaining the onboarding process, talking quickly as she pointed out different areas of the office and the basics Ashley supposedly needed to know.
Meanwhile, several employees who had noticed Ashley's arrival found their attention lingering on her longer than intended, momentarily captivated by her appearance.
