Leo's office felt quieter than usual, even though the tablet screen on his desk still displayed charts and reports he hadn't touched. Valerie stood in front of the desk, her hands clasped together, as if holding something back from spilling out too soon.
"I need permission to leave early today," she said finally. Her voice was steady, but there was a subtle tension she couldn't quite hide.
Leo, who had been reading something on his phone, immediately looked up. His brows furrowed slightly. "Now?"
Valerie nodded. "There's something I need to take care of."
Leo didn't answer right away. His gaze shifted from her face to her eyes, trying to read what she wasn't saying. "Something… or someone?"
Valerie exhaled softly. She knew that question was coming. "Daniel."
That one word was enough to make Leo's jaw tighten. He leaned back in his chair, studying her more closely. "What now?"
