Chapter #63

Stassie Perspective

The cab ride was a blur, the cityscape of New York flashing by in a whirl of colors and lights. The driver, a grizzled man with a thick accent, navigated the congested streets.

"Keep the change," I told him as we pulled up in front of the towering office building. I handed him a bill, not bothering to wait for my change as I gathered my files and prepared to make a mad dash for the entrance.

"Good luck, miss," he called after me, a hint of amusement in his voice. I offered him a quick smile, appreciating the sentiment despite the circumstances.

Then I was off, my slipper sliding against the pavement as I sprinted towards the entrance. The stack of files in my arms felt like a ticking time bomb, each second bringing me closer to my impending deadline.

As I burst through the doors, I could feel dozens of eyes on me. It was as if I had suddenly become an exhibit in a zoo, a spectacle for everyone to gawk at. I ignored the stares, focusing on the task at hand.

"Miss Ma