The Nerd Who Played the Game

"Being abroad sounds glamorous, but it's rough out there, right? Whatever gigs you picked up there might not fly here. Some are straight-up illegal. Buddy, need intros? My uncle's firm needs a guard. Low bar, just basic skills. The pay's not high, but it's legit. Better than your old..." Liam trailed off suggestively, implying unsavory escapades.

"Totally," Cindy chimed in, her tone as phony as her lashes. "We're old pals. If you're struggling, speak up. With your background—no college, no sharp clothes—you might bomb interviews. Want me to take you shopping? I can spot you cash. You were a whiz kid. It's a shame seeing you like this."

Shannon stayed silent, her nails digging into her wine stem. Her intense gaze bore into me like lasers.

Her boyfriend, Zach Fuller, leaned forward with condescending pity and open disdain.

"Ah, the legendary Troy. Tales of your devotion to Shannon precede you," he scoffed. "Slaving over her assignments, forging notes, and covering for her in class. Must have been tough."

He paused deliberately, savoring the crowd's expectant grins. "But hey, at least you knew you were out of her league. Smart move dipping out, though you seem down on your luck now. Well, Shannon is poised to helm her family's empire, and I'm steering my family's fashion line toward a blockbuster partnership with elite designers. I could throw you a lifeline."

"Appreciate it, but I'm good," I said, taking a measured sip.

Zach squinted at me. "You have no idea the caliber I'm dealing with. Know Lumina? Rising Bris jewelry brand. Their lead designer is a phenom, scooping up global prizes and shrouded in enigma. I called in major favors to score a sit-down. Land this collaboration, and it's game-changing. I could slip you to an entry-level spot, no sweat."

Gasps and accolades erupted.

"Lumina? Their pieces are pure art!"

"That designer is elite and super selective!"

"Zach, you're a powerhouse! Perfect match for Shannon's star power!"

Zach preened under the praise. It was the exact reaction he wanted to see.

"What's his name?" a curious voice probed.

"Aaron Stuart," Zach replied, inflating further. "He is a compatriot, young and talented. Commands respect in Brisian circles. My brand is niche, but I'll win him over."

He leaned into Shannon. "Right, babe?"

She murmured a vague affirmation, her focus riveted on me. Resentment simmered beneath her composed exterior.

The flattery for Zach ramped up, laced with barbs aimed my way.

I remained an island of serenity, nursing my water.

A knock suddenly came from the door.

A suited assistant, files in arm, poked her head in anxiously yet respectfully. "Mr. Fuller, sorry to interrupt. I've got those critical Lumina documents you requested and updates on the designer."