Forsaking the Years of Longing novel Chapter 97

Chapter 21

Daphne's heart was shrouded in a fog of curiosity and unease as she quietly navigated her weekend.

Matthew's messages remained unanswered, overshadowed by Jonathan's intense anger-a barrier she couldn't ignore as she sought to uncover the truth.

On Monday morning, she stepped into the office only to be met with an unusual atmosphere.

The air felt heavy, laden with an unspoken tension, as if everyone were silently sharing a secret.

Daphne moved cautiously through the corridors, each step taken with care, unwilling to disturb the delicate balance.

Yet, her colleagues' stares cut through her like knives, leaving her with an unfamiliar sense of isolation.

"What are you all talking about?" she asked, mustering her courage to break the silence.

Zoey cast her a quick glance before turning away abruptly, almost as if avoiding a plague.

Daphne was left standing alone, a mixture of embarrassment and confusion washing over her.

The glances around her grew sharper, laced with disdain and curiosity.

Seeking solace, she headed to the break room for water, only to find herself the subject of whispered gossip.

"Daphne's the company's star now — moved up to the top as a phoenix. What's she still doing in our little room?"

"Word is, her success at the financial conference was thanks to Mr. Roberts. It's easy to take shortcuts when you're a woman..."

The cutting remarks struck her like thunder, echoing in her ears.

Startled, she dropped her cup, water splashing onto the floor along with her shock.

The two gossiping colleagues froze, their faces turning crimson with embarrassment.

They quickly fled the scene, avoiding Daphne's gaze as though guilty of a crime.

Just then, Maia walked into the break room, noticing the scene.

She hurried over to Daphne.

"Daphne, are you okay?" Maia asked with genuine concern, her eyes full of worry.