CHAPTER 34: THE INVITATION

DAMIAN My desk was a war zone of unfinished reports and crumpled coffee cups. The fluorescent lights overhead buzzed relentlessly, their hum growing louder in my ears, matching the rising pressure in my chest. I stared at the screen, trying to make sense of the jumble of words that seemed to swim together in a chaotic blur. The clock on the wall ticked on, each second a reminder of how little progress I was making. Julie's voice broke through my spiraling thoughts. "Good morning to you, Mr. Calleyway." I nodded my greeting, barely having time for a proper conversation. "Before we start the day, I just want to say I've got a surprise for you." I barely looked up, too tired to muster any enthusiasm. "Not now, Julie. I'm swamped." She hesitated at the doorway, her excitement faltering as she noticed my strained expression. If I should look up, I would undoubtedly see the hurt in her eyes. But the damned woman was determined to be cheery all the time. She strutted into the room, m