Share the Shame

As David approaches from the elevator, you quickly pull out your phone, fingers flying across the screen before he reaches you. You need to share this mortifying yet amusing exchange with Clara immediately.

YOU: Your assistant Zara just gave me the most knowing look I've ever received. She said the walls are "well insulated" but suggested using your private bathroom next time instead of the leather sofa. For the cleaning staff's sake.

You add another message before Clara can respond:

YOU: Also, that woman deserves a serious raise. She apparently rescheduled your entire afternoon when she noticed how... "engaged" our discussion was. No real 3pm meeting! She created that as an excuse. employee of the year.

David reaches you just as you hit send, his expression curious as he notices your flushed cheeks and slightly trembling hands.

"Everything alright?" he asks, his eyes darting between you and Zara's desk. "You look like you've just been caught with your hand in the cookie jar."

"Something like that," you mutter, tucking your phone away as it vibrates with Clara's immediate response.

CLARA: OH MY GOD. I'm dying of embarrassment. And yes, she's getting that raise. Worth every penny. Can't believe she heard us. Wait - did she say WALLS are well insulated? Does that mean the DOOR isn't???

You can't help the giggle that escapes your lips as you read her panicked response. The sound is higher and more feminine than you're still used to hearing from yourself.

https://imgur.com/a/tpzoFF2

"Care to share the joke?" David asks as he guides you toward the elevator, one hand hovering near the small of your back without quite touching you.

"Just girl talk," you reply with newfound confidence, enjoying the flash of curiosity that crosses his face. "Clara's coming over tonight, by the way. I thought it might be nice to have her at our place for a change."

David's eyebrows shoot up, but before he can respond, your phone vibrates again:

CLARA: Just checked - Zara has already rescheduled my 3:30 and 4:15 meetings. This woman is terrifying in her efficiency. Definitely getting that raise plus a very expensive bottle of wine for Christmas. Speaking of wine, what should I bring tonight? Red or white?

You smile and quickly type back as you step into the elevator:

YOU: Red. And bring a change of clothes for tomorrow. I'm not letting you leave early.

16:05 | Monday 4 August 2025 | Ground Floor Lobby, Harrington Global Bank

All tasks completed for today!

Return Points: 67/100

Babe Bucks: 20