The stranger carried a leather portfolio and was deeply engrossed in a conversation with Richard.
"Richard," I called. "Got a minute?"
He looked up, and our eyes met.
Then, just as quickly, he looked away.
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"Not now, Bennett. I'm late."
He kept walking.
The man beside him glanced back at me once.
I stood there a second longer than I should have, water bottle in hand, a strange feeling settling into my stomach.
Still, I told myself I was imagining things.
An hour later, Richard's assistant called.
"Bennett, Richard would like to see you in his office. Now, please."
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The walk down the hallway felt longer than it ever had. My palms were damp by the time I reached his door.
HR was already there.
That was when I knew.
Richard sat behind his desk, fingers folded, all polished and calm. Beside him sat Carla from Human Resources with a manila folder.
