By the time the clock hits 1 p.m., Marilena has wrapped up her work for the day. She stretches at her desk, feeling the slight tension in her shoulders ease as she gathers her things. It's been a busy morning, but she's glad it's over. Her mind has been preoccupied with thoughts of the lunch she's about to have with Christian, and now that the time has finally arrived, she feels a mixture of excitement and apprehension.
Christian, meanwhile, has been trying to keep himself busy, but the anticipation is eating at him. He checks the time again and realizes it's almost time to leave. He shuts down his computer, grabs his jacket, and heads out of the office. He's never been so nervous for a lunch date before, but this one feels different. This one feels like it could change everything.
Back in her cubicle, as Marilena finishes tidying her workspace, she looks over at her co-workers—Solara, Sarah, and Jake—who are all still immersed in their tasks.
