Cross Lines

Chapter 13: Routine

After parting ways with Emily Luo on less than friendly terms, Maggie returned home, feeling a bit lost. She was unsure of her emotions—there was a sense of regret, but also a feeling of having done nothing wrong. Overthinking didn’t help, so she decided to set it aside and focus on completing her work.

Both the boss and Zachary returned on the same day. As expected, Zachary brought back another award, but he didn’t seem overly excited. The international design competition was held annually, and although he had won two silver and three bronze awards, the coveted gold eluded him. It was disappointing.

Zachary handed out gifts—perfume as usual. Poppy and others chatted excitedly while Maggie leaned back in her chair, looking at Zachary.

“Boss.”

“Hmm?” Zachary, holding a coffee, still showed signs of fatigue.

“How about changing the approach next year? Maybe the direction is wrong.”

Zachary, being stubborn with his designs, often missed the mark in competitions, as he didn’t quite grasp the judges’ preferences.

“Ugh,” Zachary sighed heavily. “I feel like I’ve reached my potential, Maggie. How about you take a shot next year?”

Since three years ago, Zachary had encouraged Maggie to enter the prestigious design competition. Winning would boost her standing and reputation in the company. However, Maggie always declined.

“I’m not going.”

“Why? Afraid?”

“Not afraid... just not very interested.”

Zachary had mentored Maggie from her art school days, teaching her about interior design and involving her in major bids. Maggie, grateful for his guidance, avoided competing with him whenever possible. Zachary understood and respected this.

As they talked, the office door was knocked twice, and Seymour Gao entered with a group of people, making the office lively and crowded.

“I'm here to congratulate you all.”

The design team stood to welcome the boss. Maggie moved her chair and stood aside, noticing Lola behind Seymour. Lola’s calm gaze met hers, and Maggie briefly nodded before looking away.

Seymour Gao gave a standard congratulatory speech, mostly praising Zachary. Maggie tried not to laugh, glancing at Zachary, who was visibly uncomfortable with the attention.

After some formalities, Seymour Gao announced, “The company has decided to award Zachary and your department 30,000 yuan each!”

The room erupted with cheers and applause, particularly from the design team, who were excited about the tangible reward. Maggie could tell they were already planning their celebration.

After the chairman left, Lola approached Maggie and gently touched her arm.

“Can you wait for me after work?”

Maggie was surprised. It was unusual for Lola to bring a gift given their relationship.

“Sure, but why?”

“Just a small token of appreciation. Don’t be too polite.”

Lola handed over a gift bag, and Maggie accepted it.

“Thanks! How about we have dinner together?”

“Sorry, I have a prior commitment to view an apartment for my landlord’s son’s wedding.”

Maggie acknowledged Lola’s explanation and said goodbye. As Lola left, Maggie wondered about the meaning behind the gift and decided to consider returning the favor later.

Autumn arrived quickly, and since parting ways with Emily Luo, Maggie had only seen her once at the gym. They exchanged distant glances but did not interact further. Maggie focused on enjoying her time with friends and engaging in personal hobbies.

One cold, rainy morning, Maggie wore a thick sweater and coat, thinking to care for herself since no one else would. She handled departmental expenses and went to Jasmine’s office for signatures.

“President Gao.”

“Sit.”

Jasmine, looking tired with slightly swollen eyes, signed documents without lifting her gaze.

“Why are you delivering these? Where’s Zachary?”

“Oh, he said I should handle it from now on.”

Jasmine smiled, commenting, “Your boss is getting more hands-off, planning to take a backseat?”