THE CURSED LUNA
Chapter 64

Amira pov

My attention was solely on the documents spread across my desk when the door swung open. I did not lift my eyes to acknowledge the newcomer, engrossed as I was in my work and comfortably settled in my chair. "Ma'am?"

"Yes, please enter and place the file on the table," I replied, maintaining my focus on the items before me.

A wave of discomfort washed over me, prompting me to glance at the door. My jaw dropped in disbelief, and a chill ran down my spine as I recognized the individual standing there. "What on earth!" I exclaimed, my heart racing as I attempted to compose myself. Sweat trickled down my trousers. What was Esther doing here? Wasn't her role supposed to be confined to the household?

"What do you want, young lady?"

"Nothing, ma'am. I brought lunch for you," she said, hesitating as the name "Tris" slipped from her lips. How audacious, I mused. A soft giggle escaped me, startled by her quick mention of Tris. "I do not require lunch from you, Esther." I glanced at the wall clock and noted it was already 2 PM. "Time for lunch," I said with a hint of irritation. I turned toward the bookshelf, retrieved my pink purse, and adjusted my tie. Yes, I wore a tie to work as a mark of professionalism, especially since I was scheduled to meet with some prominent board investors. As I stood to leave, I tucked the purse under my arm, furrowing my brows playfully. A bright smile spread across my face as I approached the door, our eyes locking in an intense stare. She quickly averted her gaze.

Do not ever bring anything to me again! I growled, my anger surging within me. I was not in the mood to discuss anything that could ruin my disposition, and she represented yet another opportunity for me to unleash my frustration upon her. I forcefully pushed her away, taking satisfaction in watching her stagger. "Ma'am, I..." I raised my gaze to silence her, but she was too obstinate to refrain from speaking. "I apologize for bringing you lunch." Esther's voice faded as she regained her balance, her eyes wide with a blend of fear and regret. I glared at her, my chest rising and falling with suppressed rage.

"Just leave, Esther," I snapped, my tone icy and impersonal. "And do not ever cross this line again. Do you comprehend?"

She nodded quickly, her eyes still averted. "Y-yes, ma'am."

I observed her as she turned and hurried out of the room, the door closing gently behind her. My anger continued to simmer, but I set it aside, concentrating on the forthcoming conference.

As I proceeded to the conference room, I could not shake the feeling of discomfort. Esther's presence had disturbed me, evoking memories I preferred to keep hidden.

I inhaled deeply to steady myself, adjusting my tie and handbag. As the door to the conference room opened, I entered with a radiant smile on my face.

"Good afternoon, gentlemen," I addressed the investors, projecting confidence and professionalism to conceal the inner turmoil I felt.

The meeting unfolded seamlessly, with conversations revolving around profit margins and market strategies. I answered questions effortlessly, my attention fixed on finalizing the deal. However, as the meeting neared its conclusion, my thoughts drifted back to Esther. What was her intention in bringing lunch to my office? And why did she reach out to Tris? These questions swirled in my mind, demanding my attention. As the investors left, I realized I needed to confront Esther without delay.

I returned to my office, determination clearly visible on my face.

"Esther," I called, my tone steady yet authoritative.

She appeared at the threshold, displaying a hint of reluctance.

"Yes, ma'am?" she replied.

"We need to have a discussion," I stated, narrowing my gaze.

I hope there is no issue; I would prefer Mr. Tris to be present so we can address whatever needs to be resolved with me.

I turned to regard her more closely, questioning her sanity. I have made my decision to speak with you.

She shook her head lightly and laughed. "I apologize, but I am employed by Mr. Tris, and he is the one who should be directing any inquiries towards me."

My expression hardened, irritation evident. "You are testing my patience, Esther. I am your superior, and you will respond to my inquiries."

Esther's smile faded, yet she maintained her stance. "I regret any inconvenience, ma'am. However, Mr. Tris has explicitly instructed me to discuss only specific issues with him directly."

I intensified my scrutiny, searching for any hint of dishonesty. "What issues?" I pressed.

Esther's confidence faltered, and she glanced around the room anxiously. "I-I cannot disclose that, ma'am."

My frustration surged, but I managed to contain it, my suspicion deepening. What secrets was Esther concealing? And what role did Tris play in this?

At that moment, the door swung open, and Tris entered, his striking blue eyes surveying the room.

"Ah, impeccable timing," I remarked, my tone laced with sarcasm. "Esther here insists on having a conversation exclusively with you."

Tris's gaze fixed on Esther, his expression inscrutable. "What is happening?"

Esther relaxed her shoulders and stepped forward. "Mr. Tris, I-"

"Hold on," Tris interjected, his voice low and authoritative. "We will address this in private."

Esther nodded and began to exit, but I halted her.

"Wait," I insisted, my gaze firmly on Tris. "I demand answers. What is Esther's involvement here, and what is truly happening?"

Tris's eyes met mine, a flicker of caution evident. "This is not your concern; it is my personal matter."

My frustration surged. "Do not feign ignorance with me, Tris. I am aware that something is amiss."

Tris's demeanor turned icy. "You are crossing a line. This does not pertain to you."

The tension between us was thick. Esther slipped out of the room, leaving us in solitude.

She is clearly flirting with him, and he is reciprocating; what a fool!

Tris, are you in a relationship with that woman? I have posed this question numerous times due to my observations... he raised his hand to silence me. "She is merely a cook; just let it go."