Coffee Breaks and Unspoken Glances
Framed.
Friday, 9:02 PM
📍 After hours – Company chat
Elise Harrow
Did you forget your laptop at work?
Elise Harrow
You’re online. Late.
Alexander Quinn
Unfortunately.
Alexander Quinn
Board presentation. Numbers, decks, sleepless nights. You know. The usual masochism.
Elise Harrow
That sounds glamorous.
Alexander Quinn
It’s a mess, but it looks nice in a suit.
Elise Harrow
I’d help, but I’m already in pajamas.
Elise Harrow
That violates corporate policy.
Alexander Quinn
I’ll overlook it this once.
Alexander Quinn
What are you doing online?
Elise Harrow
…Staring at a bottle of wine I don’t really want to open alone.
Alexander Quinn
Would it be inappropriate if I said… I’d have had a glass with you?
Alexander Quinn
Then I absolutely didn’t say it.
But this time, Alexander gives her the faintest smile.
Alexander Quinn
Are you always the last to leave the office?
Elise Harrow
Only when I don’t want to go home yet.
Alexander Quinn
Except my home is the office most weeks.
Elise Harrow
Let me guess. No framed photos. Just spreadsheets, a couch, and one very expensive chair?
Alexander Quinn
…You’ve been in my office?
Elise Harrow
No. But I imagine it’s as emotionally minimal as your signature.
Alexander Quinn
Maybe I should put something in there.
Alexander Quinn
Something… unexpected.
Alexander Quinn
A mug with a quote. Or a plant that dies immediately. Or…
Elise Harrow
…a framed compliment. “Clean strategy. I don’t say that lightly.” – Elise Harrow
Alexander Quinn
Actually, I’d frame that.
Continue reading in episode 4.
Comments
Kumo
Author, don't keep us in suspense for too long!
2025-07-27
0