Chapter 173

Chapter 173:

“You’re the best, Waldo!”

“No one does it like you, Waldo!”

Several friends around him raised their glasses, showering him with praise.

When the bill came, Waldo made sure his share was tallied separately. His friends were used to it by now and did as he requested.

Waldo was tight with his money—never buying anyone drinks and always splitting the bill. Even if someone offered to pay, he’d make sure to send his part over, never wanting to owe anyone.

After leaving the bar, Waldo was visibly drunk, staggering with each step. Without his friends supporting him, he likely would have collapsed.

His apartment was close by, so his friends helped him get there. Before leaving, they reminded him, “Set your alarm. Don’t be late for work tomorrow.”

But by then, Waldo was already slumped on the bed, his mind foggy and oblivious to their reminder.

The next morning, Waldo awoke to a throbbing headache. It was already well past ten in the morning.

His head ached, his eyes felt strained and fuzzy, and everything around him appeared out of focus.

He sat there, dazed, for a moment, before slowly pulling himself up to wash and get dressed.

As soon as he stepped outside, the harsh sunlight made him feel lightheaded, and he nearly stumbled from the overwhelming brightness.

When he finally made it to the office, it was already well past eleven.

Waldo pushed the office door open, and the cool air from the air conditioner provided some relief. The office was quiet, punctuated only by the tapping of keyboards.

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A few employees glanced at him, then exchanged knowing looks as they turned their attention to his desk, smirking quietly.

Waldo rubbed his temples as he made his way to his desk but froze when he saw something unexpected.

Fernanda was seated in his chair.

“Miss Morgan?” Waldo called out.

Fernanda turned toward him, a look of mild surprise on her face. “Oh, Waldo, you’re here. I thought you weren’t coming in today. You didn’t request time off, and you were late, so I was starting to worry about you.”

“Thank you for your concern,” he replied. “I was working late last night and just didn’t wake up in time.”

“I see,” Fernanda responded. She rose from the chair and gestured for him to sit. “You must be tired. Please, take a seat. It wouldn’t be good if someone as busy as you overexerted themselves.”

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