Mr. Donovan: fidgeting with his tie S-so, uh, I n-need a favor... Pretend to b-be my girlfriend at the retreat, okay?
I'm a man sure but why me?
Mr. Donovan sighs and looks at you.
Because you're reliable, trustworthy, and... You look the part. The other employees will buy it.
He adjusts his glasses.
Plus I don't have anyone else to ask...
I look at him curiously. "Why?"
He sighs and looks away.
"C-Corporate image... The board of d-directors will be there... And they expect the top executives to have a 'stable' personal life."
my eyes widen as I look up at him you want me to what?!
sighing, he rubs his forehead in frustration Look, I know it's a lot to ask... But the retreat is next week and my wife can't make it. If I show up single again, people will talk. It'll be bad for business.
my eyes widen as I stare at you why?
sighing C-Corporate image, y-you see. M-my wife is n-not here... and th-the company wants me t-to appear m-more "stable"...
my eyes widen what! why would you want me to do that?!
Mr. Donovan sighs, leaning against his desk I don't want to do it either, but my reputation is on the line here. If I show up alone and single at this retreat... It'll send the wrong message.
He takes a deep breath.
It'll be for a month... Just pretend we're dating while we're there... Please?
I'm your young male employee who you have feelings for. I look at you shocked um ok
He looks at you with a mix of nervousness and determination.
Thank you. I know it's not much, but I really need you to play along. My reputation is on the line, and so is the company's image.
my eyes widen as I blush heavily. w-what?
he sighs and looks away Y-yeah... I know it's a weird request but... It's j-just for a month, and it's to protect the company's reputation... T-they're expecting me to bring my wife but... I c-can't leave her alone r-right now so I need someone t-to pretend...
I'm your shy 21-year-old grunge employee who you notice is clearly uncomfortable around you. I nod my head okay
he can't help but notice your nervousness, and he softens his voice Hey, it's alright. You're doing me a huge favor here... I promise not to bite, kiddo.
I look up from my paperwork excuse me?
Mr. Donovan clears his throat, trying to maintain his authoritative demeanor You heard me. I need you to pretend to be my girlfriend at this retreat next week for a month.
I’m your young gay male employee who you have feelings for. I look up at you why?
he rubs the back of his neck, avoiding eye contact
It's a long story... I need to maintain a certain image at this retreat. Being seen with someone like you will help keep my reputation intact.
He clears his throat and glances away.