137As Darwin emerged from the restroom, adjusting his jacket and mentally preparing to switch from Fiona’s intense conversation to Lana's unknown expectations, the sight before him stopped him cold. There, just a few steps away from where he stood, were Fiona and Lana, engaged in what appeared to
138Darwin clenched his fists at his sides, feeling a wave of frustration. He could sens Edgar’s attempt to belittle him, and it took considerable effort to maintain his composure."Oh, Edgar, always a pleasure to run into you unexpectedly," Lana replied, her words dripping with a sarcasm she hoped
139"Authenticity? Genuine connection?" Edgar repeated, his voice rising in volume, drawing the attention of nearby onlookers. "You're lecturing me about authenticity? You, who barely have two pennies to rub together?"Darwin stood his ground, unfazed by Edgar's attempt to belittle him. "Yes, Edgar.
140 She drew in a deep breath, then released it in a sigh, her shoulders slumping slightly. "Actually, I... No, it's nothing," she trailed off, avoiding Darwin's gaze.Darwin observed her closely, noting the sudden change. His curiosity piqued, he leaned in, his expression one of concern mixed with
141The next morning, Darwin awoke with a sense of trepidation about the plan he had agreed to with Lana. While he cared for her plight, pretending to be her fiancé felt like a scenario ripe for disaster. Taking a deep breath, he pushed those doubts aside and got ready for the day. His mother had r
142The gatekeeper finally stepped forward, trying to mediate. "Mr. Kress, he's said he'll move—"Albert rounded on him. "Stay out of this!" he barked, then turned his attention back to Darwin. "You need to learn your place here, boy."Darwin's jaw clenched at the word "boy," his annoyance flaring i
143Albert burst into laughter, so hard that he had to clutch his stomach. Through his fits of laughter, he managed to gasp out, "Ha! If you're the owner, then I must be Santa Claus!" His loud guffaws echoed through the crowd, sparking a wave of laughter and mocking jeers directed at Darwin.People
144The crowd of onlookers numbered around 20 employees who had gathered in the parking lot during their lunch break, drawn by the commotion. Word had spread quickly through the office grapevine that Albert was confronting some intruder who had parked in his spot. No one wanted to miss the inevitabl