The Nerd Who Played the Game

Zach's eyes lit up with anticipation. "Got a reply? Did he agree to a face-to-face meeting?"

The assistant nodded, adjusting her grip on the files. "Met him today. He's booked tonight but slotted tomorrow."

Zach beamed triumphantly, fist-pumping subtly. "Perfect!"

He pivoted to Shannon, radiating victory. "Told you I'd seal it. Tomorrow's ours."

The assembly unleashed a torrent of sycophantic cheers.

"Zach, you're unstoppable!"

"We're all riding your coattails now."

"Shannon hit the jackpot with you."

Basking in the glow, Zach cast a smug sidelong glance my way. "Hey, any entry-level spots? Janitor, security? Troy is an old friend who did solids for my girl. Heard he's jobless. Thought I'd offer stability."

Laughter boomed.

"Zach, think twice. His family is purely toxic."

"Remember his vanishing act? His parents stormed the school, wailing and accusing the admins of abduction. Hit the evening news—total embarrassment!"

"Spot on! They're nuts. Zach, your company has just taken off. The last thing you want is their circus derailing it."

Zach feigned relief. "Whew, close call. Sorry, Troy. I love to assist, but my operation is too green for that baggage."

He sidled closer to Shannon, as if I carried a plague.

Shannon fixed me with a steely stare, her lips parting briefly before she clamped down, frustration etched in her features.

Eyes bore into me, awaiting my humiliation.

Unruffled, I reiterated, "No worries. I have a job. Thanks anyway."

Zach sighed theatrically. "That line of work? Might wanna bail before it bites you. Youth and looks fade, and those gigs come with health hazards."

Guffaws echoed, but the assistant, mid-gather, suddenly halted, her professional mask shattering as recognition dawned.

Her files cascaded to the floor in a chaotic avalanche, pages fluttering like startled birds.

Silence blanketed the space.

Zach snapped, "Clumsy much? Those are confidential!"

Oblivious to his ire, she looked in my direction, her voice quivering with awe. "Mr. Stuart? I didn't expect to see you here."