Chapter 2 2

Kyla

It seems I'm not the only one feeling an unfamiliar aura in the office. Our department suddenly became quiet. Our manager has been running back and forth. I wonder what's wrong with him.

Our office used to be a bit noisy. Our former CEO was friendly and kind. He inspired many people, including me. I wish I had a father like him. His children must be very lucky.

"Hey, OMG." I was startled when Lotie suddenly spoke as we grabbed trays in the cafeteria.

"Why?"

"Look at the table near the window." She whispered. I looked in the direction she pointed.

I didn't expect to see Mr. Pogu there, eating food from trays like the employees. No wonder people were whispering.

"Why is he eating here?" Lotie whispered.

"Well, isn't he allowed to eat here? It's his place. Besides, let's not meddle in other people's business," I told Lotie as I loaded my tray with food.

"No more available seats." We looked at the tables. Almost all were occupied.

So, we walked further to find a vacant spot, but all the tables were full, except one.

"Don't tell me we're sitting there." We both recoiled. "No way," I said, but as we hesitated, more employees crowded in.

"Here." I looked at Lotie, who pointed to an empty seat. The two people who had left earlier had someone snatch a chair from them and pulled it to the adjacent table.

"Seriously, that's rude," Lotie grumbled. "Want to just eat standing up? I'll hurry."

We both looked when we heard the sound of a chair being forcefully dragged.

We looked at the previously empty chair. I couldn't move; I just stared at Mr. Pogu. Yes, it was him, which is why we didn't proceed.

I glanced at Lotie. "You go! I'll stay here. I'm embarrassed."

When I looked back at Mr. Pogu, he was already looking at me, nodding toward the vacant chair in front of him.

Oh well, let's do this! I had no choice but to sit in the empty chair in front of Mr. Pogu. If you look at him, he's just eating like an ordinary person. I couldn't help but be curious about him. He seemed mysterious, like a tree full of secrets.

I caught glimpses from the corner of my eye of other employees sneaking glances at me. I knew it! They're going to gossip about me sitting here.

I was about to start eating when suddenly I heard whispers. Earlier, they were giving me dirty looks; now, they're whispering? I shouldn't have had lunch.

"Don't mind them." I was surprised to hear Mr. Pogu's voice. He spoke! I tried to eat, but honestly, my appetite was gone. Who can eat in such discomfort, with so many eyes on you? Damn it!

It looks like Mr. Pogu finished, and he cleaned up his tray. A waiter was about to approach him, but he quickly stopped him and put the tray on the counter himself. Of course, everyone was still staring at Mr. Pogu. Every move he made, they wanted to watch.

He caught everyone's attention when he cleared his throat. "In case you might not know, we have a new rule in the cafeteria too." Then he pointed upwards near the window.

Gossiping about fellow employees is prohibited. Deduction from salary.

"Please enjoy your lunch." He smiled before leaving.

I smiled because the whole cafeteria suddenly went quiet. I think I take back what I said. I feel like our new boss is better.

"Looks like I won't be able to join Lotie." We paused at the waiting shed where we'd catch the bus.

Everyone was granted time off to attend Sir's Welcome Party. However, I thought it would be better to spend the whole day off with my triplets at home instead of going to the party. My friend Mits had duty, and I couldn't leave my kids alone at night.

"There you are!" We turned when we heard that familiar voice – Jovie and her sidekicks.

"Why do we have invitations?" I asked her in confusion.

"Oh. Did I forget to mention? I assigned you to Front Desk Assistance. You're the best person I could think of for that. Don't worry, Lotie. You're a waitress. So, see you!" She was about to walk away, but she turned back. "And oh, if we don't attend, they'll deduct from our salary! Bye, Raggies!" And off they went.

"That brat is really getting on my nerves. I'll give her a piece of my mind!" Lotie seemed annoyed, so I stopped her from following Jovie.

"Just let it go."

"She's so rude. She knows I get tired easily, and she's turning me into a waitress!"

"I am supposed to take the day off for my triplets." I lowered my head and tightly held the invitation.

"Oh, Kyla." Lotie rubbed my back. "Who will watch over them if you're not there?"

*************

Miggy

Today feels unusual for me. I sense it, but I'm not sure if what I'm feeling is right. This feeling started when I returned here.

"Gabrielle?" I approached her as soon as I recognized her behind the counter.

"Am I too early?" She smiled and pushed a glass of alcohol toward me.

"Not at all."

"This is all I could find." She handed me the folder. "Thanks."

"Your memories are not yet back?" She hesitated to ask. I just looked at her, unable to speak.

"Let me tell you this. I'm doing my part to help you find out what really happened in your accident because you told me you have doubts. But something is covering up. I'm not sure of anything. But the best thing you can trust is your memories."

I asked Gab to investigate my accident. Since I came back, I've been experiencing flashes of images in my dreams or even when I'm awake. Sometimes, a particular place feels so familiar, like I've been there, but I can't remember how or when.

I feel like something is triggering my memories to come back.

"You mean, I should resume my therapy?"

"Why did you stop taking it, by the way?" she asked.

"They said I am fully recovered, and my mom convinced me not to struggle. They said I am better now."

"Maybe you should start knowing the old you, how you used to live. That could help." She tapped the folder she gave me. "Then we'll find out what really happened to you."

As she was about to drink her alcohol and leave, I stopped her. "Do you think my family is hiding something from me?" Gab looked at me.

"I don't know. Who knows? You trust them the most, right? You should figure it out. If you'll excuse me, I have a wife waiting for me." He grinned before walking away.