I stared at my computer screen, trying to focus on the spreadsheet in front of me, but my mind kept drifting back to Jiyeon. It had been a week since she left for France, and I was already feeling the weight of her absence. Lunchtime was approaching, and I couldn't help but remember how Jiyeon used to bring me lunch every day, her bright smile and delicious meals always the highlight of my day. Now, with her gone, everything felt dull and lifeless.
A sharp knock on the door interrupted my thoughts. I glanced at the clock—nearly noon. I took a deep breath, trying to push away my irritation. "Come in," I called, my voice more clipped than I intended.
The door opened, and my secretary, Mina, walked in. She held a folder in her hands and wore a somewhat anxious expression. "Sa y est, I have the information you requested about Professor Delacroix," she said, handing me the folder.
