When Alex returned to the office after their morning rounds, he headed straight to Director White's office. The door was slightly ajar, so he knocked lightly before stepping inside. The director was sitting behind her desk, sifting through some paperwork, her calm demeanor as present as ever. She glanced up and smiled warmly when she saw him.
"Director," Alex started, closing the door behind him, "I've been wondering about something. Why did you tell Secretary Jessica that you were heading to Haverbrook for the New Year? It didn't seem like you really planned on going."
The director leaned back in her chair, "My husband isn't home this year, as you know. The secretary kindly invited Emily and me to spend the New Year at her place. Elder sister and I go way back—we've been old friends for years. I didn't want to reject her invitation outright, but at the same time, I wanted to avoid any awkwardness." She paused and chuckled lightly. "To be honest, Alex, I'm not very good at telling lies, especially not in front of friends. I felt pretty awkward lying to her."
Alex raised an eyebrow in surprise. "Really? I didn't notice anything unnatural at all. You had me completely convinced! To be honest, I was a little worried about you. I thought you might be spending New Year's alone, but now that you've explained, I feel relieved."
The director's laugh was light, almost playful. "It's better this way," she said, a twinkle of amusement in her eyes. "Now everyone thinks I'm heading to Haverbrook for the New Year, which means I won't have to deal with extra social obligations or unnecessary visits. This way, I can have a peaceful holiday."
Alex nodded in agreement, beginning to understand the layers of her careful planning. Director White lived in her husband's company housing, and many of her colleagues assumed she would spend the holiday with family far away. By claiming to be going to Haverbrook, she had neatly sidestepped any prying questions or last-minute invitations, ensuring that she could relax and avoid the extra trouble that often came with the holiday season.
"You've thought this through," Alex remarked, "I see why you made the decision. It's a smart way to keep things simple and peaceful for yourself."
Director White smiled at him, "I've had my fair share of complicated holidays in the past. This year, I just want to relax, and I thought it might be nice to spend the New Year quietly, with you and Emily. That's why I told everyone I'm going to Haverbrook. No one will question it, and it gives me the space I need."
"How was your night, by the way?" Director White asked.
"Very well, actually. I slept straight through till morning, and I feel much more refreshed."
Director White chuckled. "I wish I could say the same. I couldn't sleep at all after I left. I took a shower, got into bed, but I was restless and irritated the whole time. Eventually, I ended up waking Emily, and we chatted for half the night. Poor thing, she could barely keep her eyes open toward the end, so I finally let her go back to sleep. After that, I picked up a book, read a bit, and finally managed to doze off right before dawn."
Alex laughed, "Poor Emily! It sounds like you owe her a peaceful night's sleep."
Director White grinned. "I do."
"But next time, I'll stay up all night with you if that's what it takes. We can chat until the sun rises." Alex said.
Director White tilted her head, teasing him gently. "Don't say that so quickly. You might regret it when the time comes."
Alex shook his head with mock seriousness. "No way! I'd never feel sleepy chatting with you, Director. It's my job to make sure you enjoy a happy Spring Festival, after all."
"Good brother," she said, her voice softening. "I'm lucky to have you here. But enough for now. I won't be in this afternoon. I need to catch up on some rest at home. Come over for dinner tonight, though. I'll be expecting you."
"Of course," Alex replied with a nod, "I wouldn't miss it."
After leaving Director White's office, Alex returned to his desk, only to find Frederick waiting for him with a sealed cardboard box in his hands.
"This just arrived," Frederick said, handing the box over. "Jane asked me to pass it along to you."
Alex frowned slightly, confused as to what could be inside. Once Frederick left, Alex carefully opened the box, his curiosity piqued. Inside, he found it filled with an assortment of snacks—melon seeds, beef jerky, and other treats neatly packed together. But what caught his attention most was a handwritten note resting at the bottom of the box.
Dear Alex,
Thank you for taking our shift. We know you're missing out on the chance to go home for the New Year, so Frederick and I wanted to give you a little something to celebrate. We hope this gift brings you a bit of holiday cheer. You're always welcome to visit us at home anytime—we'd love to host you.
At the bottom of the note was Jane's home address, scrawled in her neat handwriting.
Alex sat back in his chair, feeling a wave of warmth wash over him. Women really were considerate.
After placing the note carefully back in the box, Alex leaned back in his chair. He glanced at the snacks spread across his desk. Then he thought wander to Secretary Jessica's smile from earlier that day.
He recalled what Director White had mentioned earlier about Jessica's family and the struggles she had endured. It wasn't easy, and Alex could sense that she must be lonely.
And what Director White said yesterday that woman have tough situation in the career world.
Feeling a wave of sympathy wash over him, Alex made up his mind. He would visit Secretary Jessica in the afternoon to wish her a happy New Year. It seemed like the least he could do—an offer of thanks for her help and perhaps a small gesture of comfort for the quiet sorrow she carried.