I felt uneasy all over. In the break room, I caught up with the marketing director, the only one who seemed friendly.
"What's with everyone? Is it because I'm Mr. Brown's girlfriend now?" I asked.
"You're still new here, Kelly. There's a lot you don't know. Just give it time," she said, her discomfort apparent.
She hesitated, then whispered before leaving, "Keep your distance from Mr. Brown, okay? Just enough to stay safe."
I didn't fully grasp her warning, choosing instead to ignore it.
I believed in my work quality and skills; I was with Mr. Brown because he treated me better than anyone else ever had.
I was just following my heart; they had no right to judge.
Mr. Brown usually drove me home, but that night, he suddenly turned around.
"Where are you heading?" I asked, puzzled.
"To my place," he stated flatly.
"We've only been together a few days. Isn't this too soon?" I questioned, my voice tinged with hesitation.
"What's the problem? You're my girlfriend now," he retorted, almost defensively.
Influenced by my traditional upbringing, I was uncomfortable.
"I think I'll head to my own home. If it's too much trouble, you can drop me off, and I'll take a cab," I offered diplomatically.