30: A Frosty Morning and Frayed Nerves

The next morning, Conor awoke to a frigid chill in the air. Winter had finally arrived, and the cold seemed to seep into his bones. He wrapped himself tightly in his blanket, grateful that Jessica hadn’t taken it away this time. From the kitchen, he heard the familiar clatter of dishes as Jessica prepared breakfast.

“Hurry up, Conor. Don’t be late for Jackson’s! Remember, rent is due Friday!” Jessica’s voice carried a sense of urgency that sent a pang of guilt through him.

Conor rolled out of bed, the cold air biting at his skin as he hurried to shower and dress. By the time he made it to the kitchen, Jessica had already left for work. He sighed, quickly scrambling an egg and eating it straight from the pan before jogging to work.

When Conor arrived at Jackson Furniture, he was met with a stern-faced Mr. Matthews waiting for him at the entrance.

“Care to explain why I have an irate client threatening to sue us after having an accident shortly after leaving our loading dock?” Mr. Matthe