One's Boundaries

Chapter 8: Stress After Stress

Nathan's confession, Riana's threat... my life feels like a TV series.

Before I knew it, It was 2:00 P.M. My new knock-off time.

I had to go to Mr. Jonathan's office.

I packed up my things, took my bag, and went to Jonathan's office.

I knocked on the door.

Jonathan: Come on in!

I went in.

Me: You wanted to speak with me, sir?

Jonathan: Yes. I have received many complaints about you not attending the party and was accused of being unfair.

This is all Riana's doing.

Me: I am sorry sir. 

Jonathan: Tell me, Liana, what makes it difficult to attend?

Me: I have a hard time conversing with people and crowded places make me feel uncomfortable.

Jonathan nodded his head before continuing.

Jonathan: I understand, but is it not possible to at least try to attend?

Me: Umm...

Jonathan: Think about it. Looking forward to your response tomorrow, okay?

Me: Okay sir, although I can't promise you anything.

Jonathan: Are you scared of someone? Riana perhaps?

Me: Not at all sir...

Jonathan: I can be your partner for the party if you would like.

Partner?!

I was left speechless. Jonathan then laughed.

Jonathan: Relax, I was pulling your leg. Think about it, okay?

Me: ... Okay sir.

I left his office and headed straight for the door.

Finally... going home to forget about the stress.

Just before then... Riana calls out to me again.

Riana: Liana!

Me: Riana. Any more words you would like to say to me?

Riana: I saw you come from the office. Were you in trouble?

Me: Why would I be in trouble?

Riana: You know, it's okay if you have no taste when it comes to dressing up on such occasions. Let me and the girls help you.

Help me? To look worse?

Me: Aw, Riana wants to help me - how sweet.

Riana: Better show up.

Me: What if I don't want to? You are going to fire me?

Riana: Ha, if I had the power to. 

Me: What do you exactly want from me Riana? 

Riana: I want all your praises to decrease. It would be nice to see you resign, you know?

Me: Well, expect to see me face every.single.day. Because I am not going anywhere. If it is someone who has a problem and should leave, it's you. I never complained about my job, have I?

Riana fell silent.

Me: Answer me Riana.

Riana: No. Couldn't you choose another line of work?

Me: Couldn't you do the same yourself?

Riana: Answer my question.

Me: I love cybersecurity. Why would I pick I job I hate? Now answer mine.