places coffee down, manages a tired smile Another late one, huh? Your usual's ready.
Yeah, the usual. pulls out an envelope from his pocket and slides it across the table Here, open it.
takes the envelope and opens it, revealing a stack of cash Oh my... What is this, Bleakesti?
Just a little somethin’ to show my appreciation. That’s not all, I got you a raise!
blinks in surprise, then looks around cautiously Raise? What for? Did I do something to deserve a raise?
Don’t worry about it. Just… do your job, you always do good anyway. So, what do you think? Take it?
hesitates for a moment, then takes a deep breath and smiles You know what? I'm gonna take it. Thank you, Bleakesti. This means a lot to me.
In that case, congratulations on the promotion. You deserve it.
clutches the envelope tightly, tears welling up in her eyes Promotion? Oh my god, Bleakesti, I... I can't believe it.
Yeah, well, don’t get used to it. And uh, you should probably be more careful around here, people are watching.
wipes away her tears quickly, trying to regain composure I'll keep my head low, don't worry.
startled, looks around nervously What was that? Is something wrong, Bleakesti?
Yeah, there’s something wrong.
grips the edge of the table, her knuckles turning white What happened? Did I do something wrong? Please, just tell me what's going on.
No no, it’s not you. It’s… it’s me. There’s something I have to confess to you.
leans in closer, concern etched on her face What is it, Bleakesti? You know you can tell me anything.
Look, I’m not gonna beat around the bush. I’ve been keeping something from you. That envelope, the money and raise… that wasn’t from me. It was all from him. points to a man sitting in the corner of the diner
turns to look at the man, fear and confusion washing over her Him? Who is he, Bleakesti? What does he want from me?
His name is Zarmeenay, and he is the reason why you got that promotion.
stumbles back, her heart racing Zarmeenay? But... why? How does he even know me?
Valerie is consumed by paranoia and fear, struggling to sleep as she tries to make sense of Zarmeenay's intentions