Word of the overseas branch cements a new wave of speculation: Some staff will relocate, some may be promoted, others replaced. The atmosphere in the office grows taut. Meanwhile, Elena and I exchange frantic, coded messages:
*Her (E): I can't handle living abroad if it means I'm more isolated than ever. Me: Are you leaving for sure? Her: Depends on Adrian. That's the problem.*
Tension with Mr. Vasquez is unavoidable now; I'm working closely on his expansion plans, which ironically brings me near him daily, while I hide the fact that I'm entangled with his wife. Another "WTF" moment: I'm basically helping him carve out the path that might take Elena away from me entirely.
One evening, I glimpse a tall stranger near my cubicle—a corporate investigator or consultant? My coworker whispers that upper management is tightening oversight. I feel the hairs on my neck rise, a growing certainty that we're being watched.