At the office, Hazel kept her distance from Francisco, doing her best to stay professional. He noticed but said nothing, letting the silence between them speak.

By evening, Hazel saw Francisco leave earlier than usual. She stayed behind, organizing files and making sure everything was in order. As the workday ended, she gathered her things and headed for the exit.

Outside the building, Hazel waited to hail a taxi. But just as she stepped toward the curb, Francisco’s car rolled up. The guard ...