The vast office remained shrouded in darkness. Jonas had not managed to clean up the aftermath before his visitor arrived.
Or rather, he had never expected such a coincidence: Miss Esnie had chosen this very moment to visit, and instead of having reception announce her, she had headed straight for his office.
"Mr. Jonas, were you... playing games?"
Esnie looked around, surprised to find an active holographic screen and two controllers on his desk.
"Yes, I played with Miss Celine for a little while before she left..."
As he spoke, Jonas realized the flaw in his wording and added, "After she left, I was bored, so I played a little longer. I haven't had time to tidy up yet."
The young woman nodded thoughtfully.
So that's what happened. Still, Mr. Jonas actually played games to pass the time now and then, just like Celine?
Silently noting this preference, Esnie approached with the documents in her arms, anticipation gradually filling her eyes.
But just as she was about to reach the desk, Jonas stopped her sharply.
"Wait a moment, Esnie."
"What's wrong, Mr. Jonas?" She looked at him in confusion, paused briefly, then continued forward at a slower pace.
As she drew closer, a barely perceptible flicker of anxiety crossed Jonas's face, but he quickly regained his composure.
"Just leave the documents on the table. The office is a little messy right now, and I'm worried the papers will get mixed up."
"It's all right, Mr. Jonas. I'll help you tidy up..."
Esnie came closer and closer. Suddenly, her delicate nose twitched as she keenly picked up a strange smell.
So familiar... but I can't remember what it is.
She looked down at Jonas, only to find that he had suddenly frozen, an odd expression appearing on his face.
"Do you