I turned to leave, but he uncharacteristically stood up and walked towards me step by step.
Instinctively, I backed away until I was cornered against the wall. He planted his arms on either side of my head.
Michael leaned down, his breath warm against my face.
"And those rumors about us... they've been quite interesting lately," he said, each word bringing him closer until I had nowhere left to retreat.
"Mr. Shaw, should I... clear things up?" I asked, my head down, ears burning with embarrassment.
"No need," he murmured. "As long as you aren't troubled by them, Ms. White."
He brushed a strand of my hair aside and gently sniffed it. "I really like today's perfume."
I forcefully pushed his leaning body away. "Mr. Shaw, please respect yourself."
Michael laughed heartily. "Alright, alright. Clear my schedule for all of next Wednesday."
I quickly make a calculation—It would be April 15th next Wednesday. Valerie had said it was the day he disappears every year.
"Sure, Mr. Shaw. Anything specific you need me to arrange?"
"You don't need to know. Now get out."
Michael's mood was always unpredictable.
I stepped back and decided to follow him that day to see what was going on.