If Adrian wanted distance—
Then Lina would give it to him.
At least… that's what she told herself.
"Good morning," she said politely.
"…Good morning."
No extra words.
No smiles that lingered too long.
No more lunch together.
It felt strange.
Unnatural.
But Lina adjusted.
Because that's what she always did.
She threw herself into work.
Cleaning more efficiently.
Helping others quietly.
Avoiding his office unless necessary.
If he wants space… I'll respect that.
But deep inside—
It still hurt.
That night, as she walked home, she clenched her fists.
"I didn't come this far just to feel sad," she whispered.
"I have things to do. People to take care of."
Her mother.
Her brother.
Her dreams.
Lina inhaled deeply.
Then smiled again—
Not because everything was okay.
But because she chose to keep going.