The weekend flew by, and before I knew it, Monday had arrived. In spite of the break, I was not well rested. Despite the strong emotions I had for Louis and my sympathy for the flamingoes, Miss Billings still had a significant presence in my life. Our upcoming meeting couldn’t be put off much longer. I composed myself and arrived at the office earlier than usual to avoid crossing paths with Louis.

Mackenzie Billings lived up to her workaholic style, as she was already in her office disposing of shredded papers. I took a deep breath, and knocked on her door as she tore up the last documents.

“Jessica, please come in and take a seat.” she said sweetly.

Her cheerful demeanor surprised me, but I quickly sat down.

“You’re at work early today. I take it you had a restful weekend?”

“Oh, y-yes, I did.” I stammered.

Miss Billings smiled. “That’s good. It’s important to have any talented team member in top form!”

I remained silent, stunned at Miss Billings’ change of mood. Ever since she took charge, she had been distant and demanding towards her employees. Now, she treated me like one of her friends.

“Jessica, I want you to know you’re an exceptional staff member and bring great value to this newspaper.”

“T-Thank you, Miss Billings. I am so grateful for your kind compliments.”

“The truth is, I’ve been considering making you a partner in the company. What are your thoughts on that?”

I sat there, stunned, with my mouth wide open.

“I-I-Are you sure about that?” I asked.

“Jessica, once you learn about the Glendale flamingo, I’m confident we can start working together.”

The mention of the flamingo made my heart stop, and it was impossible for me not to think of Louis, his mother, and their bird companions.

“Um, regarding that.” I said, trying to gather up courage, “Louis invited me over to visit the Glendale house, but I didn’t find any sign of flamingoes. Miss Martha is eccentric but doesn’t own any exotic birds.”

Miss Billings frowned, but quickly regained her cheerful disposition.

“I see, Jessica. Louis has a tight grip on you.”

“W-What?”

“Louis is one of those men who plays the nice guy role to get what they want. It’s clear he took advantage of your empathetic nature.”

“Wait a minute!” I raised my voice. “Louis isn’t like that.”

With sympathy, Miss Billings shook her head and murmured, “Poor Jessica. I remember being in love similar to yours once, but that’s not always as it appears.”

Anger surged through me. How could she say that about Louis? How could she pity me!? I was about to give Miss Billings a piece of my mind, when she surprised me with some photos.

“You see Jessica, it’s important for strong women such as us to support each other, otherwise we’ll be left at the mercy of indifferent men.”

I gazed at the pictures and tears filled my eyes. Louis was kissing another woman, and the date was three days ago.

Editor: Lucy Cafiero