It didn't take long.
Veronica approached Lina directly.
"You," she said.
Lina turned.
"…Yes?"
"You're the one who's been… close to Adrian."
It wasn't a question.
It was a statement.
Lina remained calm.
"I work here, yes."
Veronica stepped closer.
Her presence alone made the air heavier.
"You should know your place."
Silence.
A few employees nearby froze.
Lina blinked once.
Then—
She smiled.
Not her usual bright smile.
But something quieter.
Stronger.
"I do know my place," Lina said gently.
Veronica raised an eyebrow.
"Oh?"
"I'm someone who works hard for what I have."
A pause.
"And I don't take things that aren't mine."
The meaning was clear.
Very clear.
Veronica's smile tightened.
"…Careful. Confidence can look like arrogance when you don't have the status to back it up."
Lina tilted her head slightly.
"Maybe," she said.
Then—
"But I think kindness matters more than status."
Silence.
Tension.
Then—
A voice cut in.
"That's enough."
Both women turned.
Adrian stood there.
His expression cold.
But his eyes—
Were on Lina.
"…Return to your tasks," he said.
It sounded like an order.
But it felt like protection.
Lina nodded.
"Understood."
And walked away calmly.
No fear.
No hesitation.
Veronica watched her go.
Then glanced at Adrian.
"…She's interesting."
Adrian didn't respond.
Because he already knew that.
Better than anyone.