The Ultimate Return of Carlos

22: Beneath the Surface

Overwhelmed by shame and guilt, Abby quickly stood up and ran out of Carlos's apartment. Carlos, still processing what had just happened, remained frozen on the couch for a few moments before springing into action to chase after her. By the time he reached the parking lot, all he could see was the tail end of the SUV Abby had arrived in, speeding out of the building's driveway.

Defeated, Carlos returned to his apartment and tried reaching his friend Toby, wanting to share what had happened. However, after several unanswered calls, he gave up for the night.

The following day, just after settling into his office, Carlos decided to seek out Toby. He knocked on Toby's office door and heard his friend's familiar voice from within, telling him to come in.

As Carlos stepped in, Toby looked up from his desk. "Hey man, it's you. You don't need to knock."

"Well, it's the normal courtesy and the right thing to do," Carlos replied as he sat down.

Toby grinned, "What brings you to my humb