Soon enough, I was standing in the financial department, leaning against the wall like I owned the place but my heart was hammering. I'd texted Eric, and for once, he actually replied. Said he was on his way.
And then I saw him.
He looked… different.
The usual bright smile? Gone. That laid-back charm he always carried like cologne? Nowhere in sight. Instead, he looked like someone who hadn't slept in days. Shoulders stiff. Eyes tired. Soul heavier than it should be for a Monday morning.
"Tyler, you look so good," he said as he got close, trying to fake some kind of normalcy. His hands brushed my lapels. "This suit—damn. Looks expensive."
I let out a half-laugh. "It's provided. But don't let the aesthetics fool you. I'm working like a damn dog for it."
His smile cracked for real that time, but only for a second.
Then it faded again.
"What about Han?" he asked, eyes scanning my face like he was searching for something.
"What about Han?" I shot back.
