After a few more rounds of greetings, the atmosphere in the staff room began to relax again.
Joel offered another awkward and thankful bow to the group. After that, Gray clapped him lightly on the back before telling everyone, "Alright, back to your posts, everyone. Don't let me get in the way of your work and break time."
Everyone laughed because of it. The employees chuckled and jokingly groaned. However, despite that, they started moving. They stretched and drank some water to refresh themselves.
Slowly, they walked out of the room, some giving Joel a polite nod or smile as they passed him.
He returned each gesture the best he could, even if he still felt like his knees were made of jelly.
As the last employee left the staff room, Gray gave Joel a reassuring glance.
"You did well."
Joel blinked. "Did I, Sir? I felt like I was going to faint," he muttered under his breath.
Gray laughed.
