THE CURSED LUNA

Amira pov.

I entered my vehicle and started the engine. Just as I was about to depart, Tris emerged from the house, calling out my name, causing my heart to race with concern. I needed to ensure that the office was properly organized, as an issue had arisen that was out of the ordinary; it was rare for them to engage in conflict, especially given the regulations that govern all employees, including those in supervisory positions.

"Wait!" Tris shouted, rushing toward me.

I lowered the window, my heart still pounding from the unexpected interruption. "What is it?"

Tris's expression was filled with worry. "Where is Emily headed? She seemed upset."

I paused, uncertain about how much to disclose. "She mentioned something about work."

"If it's work-related, then let's go together," he suggested quickly. I nodded, even though I required assistance at the office regarding a misunderstanding among the staff that had just come to my attention. "Tris, we need to hurry; there's a conflict between the receptionist and another woman at the office. I must resolve this issue promptly."

Tris's demeanor shifted to one of seriousness. "Let's go. I'll take the wheel." He swiftly moved to the driver's side.

I took my place in the passenger seat and immediately dialed the receptionist's number, but it went directly to voicemail.

I left a quick message stating, "Hello, this is [Your Name]. Tris and I are on our way to the office and will meet you there. Please exercise caution."

Tris increased his speed, skillfully navigating through the traffic. "What is the situation with the receptionist?" he inquired.

"It seems she had a serious disagreement with another staff member. I am not yet aware of the specifics," I responded.

Tris's expression became serious. "It appears to be more than a mere misunderstanding."

Upon our arrival at the office, I sensed a palpable tension in the atmosphere. The receptionist and her colleague, Victoria, were positioned in the lobby, their faces flushed with anger.

"I cannot comprehend what her issue is!" the receptionist exclaimed.

Victoria retorted, "You always believe you are flawless!"

I stepped in, maintaining a calm and authoritative demeanor. "Ladies, please cease this. We need to address this matter in a civil manner."

Tris discreetly took a position near the entrance, observing the situation.

As I worked to mediate the dispute, it became evident that the underlying issues were more complex than a simple argument. There were murmurs of favoritism, sabotage, and ulterior motives.

Just as we began to make headway, Mrs. Bella entered, visibly out of breath. "I apologize for my tardiness."

Her gaze swept across the room until it met mine. "What is occurring here?"

"Staff conflict," I summarized for her. "However, I suspect there is more beneath the surface."

Bella's expression became serious. "I believe I understand the situation."

At that moment, Victoria's phone emitted a notification sound. She turned pale as she read the incoming message.

"What is it?" I inquired, addressing my receptionist.

"It's none of your concern, you harlot!" she retorted, prompting me to blink in confusion as I tried to grasp the nature of the dispute between the two women. I had heard of conflicts arising from romantic entanglements or betrayals, and I was determined to uncover the truth.

"Enough!" I interjected firmly, my voice demanding their attention. "Victoria, what is happening? Who sent that message?"

With trembling hands, Victoria passed her phone to me. The message stated: "Stay away from him. He's mine."

Her eyes widened in surprise. "Who is 'him'?" she inquired, her voice tinged with intrigue.

Victoria's gaze fell to the floor. "No one."

I gently grasped Victoria's arm. "We need to discuss this privately."

As we entered my office, Betty trailed behind, her expression one of concern.

"Victoria, what is the matter?" I asked, closing the door behind us.

Tears began to form in Victoria's eyes. "It's... about James."

Emily's eyebrows lifted in surprise. "James?"

Victoria confirmed with a nod. "We have been... seeing each other. However, someone has discovered our relationship."

I exchanged a significant look with Betty, realizing this situation was far more serious than a mere disagreement.

"Who do you suspect sent the message?" Betty inquired.

Victoria paused, contemplating. "Perhaps the receptionist?"

My thoughts raced. Could my receptionist be implicated in this matter?

At that moment, Tris knocked on the door. "Pardon me, but I believe I have uncovered something."

He presented me with a printout. "This was sent anonymously to Victoria's email."

The message stated: "Do you think you're special? He is merely using you."

I locked eyes with Betty, sensing that the situation was deteriorating rapidly.

I cannot comprehend why the message is anonymous. Is the sender afraid of revealing their identity? I will ensure that I uncover who is behind this; such disrespectful behavior cannot be tolerated in my office.

"I will resolve this issue," I promised Victoria, my determination evident.

Betty agreed with a nod. "We will discover who is responsible for this."

Tris added, "I have already begun tracing the origin of the email. However, it is likely a fabricated account."

I responded affirmatively. "Continue your investigation. I demand answers."

Tears began to fill Victoria's eyes. "Thank you... for believing in me."

As Victoria regained her composure, I addressed Betty. "Involve HR. We require a formal inquiry."

Betty nodded and left the office, her phone already in hand.

Tris followed suit, stating, "I will persist in tracing the email."

I turned my attention back to Victoria. "Please tell me more about James. Is he aware of these messages?"

Victoria paused, "We... kept it under wraps. However, I believe someone witnessed us together."

I made a mental note to discuss this matter with James.

At that moment, my receptionist knocked on the door, her demeanor visibly anxious.

"May I enter?" she inquired, her gaze shifting to Victoria.

I nodded, sensing that a confrontation was imminent.

She stepped inside, shutting the door behind her. "I understand what you're thinking, but I did not send those messages."

Victoria's expression hardened. "Then who did?"

I am uncertain; we cannot continue to argue over a man. I have no connection to the anonymous message. Perhaps she is involved with another woman as well; who can say? She began, rolling her eyes dramatically. There was merit in her words, and it would be prudent to ask Victoria.

I turned to Victoria, seeking further clarification. "She raises a valid point. Is there another woman associated with James?"

Victoria's complexion reddened, and she hesitated before responding. "I... am not sure. James claimed he was single, but..." My receptionist scoffed. "Spare us, Victoria. We are all aware of James's reputation."

I stepped in to maintain composure. "Let us concentrate on uncovering the truth. Victoria, did James mention anyone else?"