One of the things Niuniu likes about her job is not having to spend the whole day in the office. This means she has avoided work politics and maintained a good relationship with most of her colleagues. But she has never imagined those relations are as good as they seem today.
Niuniu walks into her office building and enters the lift. The three people in the lift greet her with exceptional warmth and an enthusiastic chorus of 'good morning'. Niuniu is a little surprised, but she responds in a similar manner.
'How was your weekend, Niuniu?' asks Mr Lai. 'Fine, thanks,' says Niuniu.
Then Mr Lai winks at her. The wink seems forced. Not insincere, but practised. Almost as though Mr Lai has been holding that wink in his pocket all morning just waiting to spring it on her. Is this a 'how do you do?' wink? No, Niuniu thinks. This is almost certainly a 'thanks for last night' wink. Niuniu smiles awkwardly and faces the front of the lift. When the door opens, she steps out and heads towards her office with the feeling of Mr Lai's eyes burning on her back.
She walks to her desk, puts down her belongings and picks up her cup. Niuniu walks to the kitchen to get some hot water when in walks Linda, an editor from New Zealand. Niuniu has gone to lunch with Linda on several occasions and is rather fond of her. 'Niuniu, I can't believe this!' Linda says, walking up closely behind her. 'You had me totally fooled. I am so glad you had the courage to tell me. I don't think I would have felt comfortable approaching you.'
'Oh, Linda, I'm sorry. I'm a bit confused,' she replies.