Chapter 5: Beach Barbecue and Doubts

After that, everything went back to normal.

The company organized a team-building trip to a nearby beach town for a three-day getaway. Everyone buzzed about it for weeks, posting memes and debating whether to bring extra sunscreen or risk the sunburn.

A few hours later, the bus arrived at the resort, and the beautiful scenery washed away everyone’s fatigue. The ocean shimmered in the late afternoon sun, and palm trees swayed lazily in the breeze.

Everyone took photos and checked in, having a blast. Selfies, TikToks, and Boomerangs filled my feed before we’d even unpacked.

By dinner, the admin team gathered everyone for a barbecue party. The smell of burgers and grilled corn drifted over the beach, and people crowded around picnic tables, laughing and passing beers.

During the barbecue, Jason stayed by my side, busying himself for me. He loaded my plate with ribs and potato salad, fetching me a Coke from the cooler and making sure I had the best seat at the table.

Kids tossed frisbees by the volleyball net, and someone tried to get a bonfire going with a lighter and a lot of swearing.

The department’s intern, Lily, chattered beside Jason, acting especially close to him. She had on these giant sunglasses and wouldn’t shut up about Coachella and how she was totally moving to L.A. after graduation.

But Jason barely paid her any attention.

Maybe she got bored, because after a while, Lily wandered off. She joined a group doing karaoke by the fire pit, her laughter echoing across the sand.

“All right, babe, Lily is just a kid—I see her as a little sister. Are you really jealous?”

After Lily left, Jason whispered to me. He nudged my side, his eyes twinkling like he was in on a secret.

He was good at reading my moods. He’d noticed I went quiet when Lily approached and understood why.

“No. But keep your distance from her in the future, okay?” I tried to sound light, but I couldn’t shake the tiny prickle of unease.

I was confident in Jason’s feelings for me. Even though I knew Lily liked him, I didn’t overthink it.

“Yes, ma’am.” He gave me a playful salute and leaned in to kiss my forehead, leaving me smiling despite myself.