324 No Games Here

(Jayden)

As soon as Winona’s face disappears from the screen, I lean back in my chair and exhale, rubbing my hands over my face. The call didn’t go quite how I’d hoped.

I want her to feel more connected to what I’m doing here, but maybe I was pushing it, throwing Sofia into the mix like that. Winona didn’t seem too thrilled, and it wasn’t just the timing.

Sofia seemed to think Winona would be okay with it. I better double check the hour next time.

“I’m sure it’s tough being apart. But hey, at least you’ve got plenty to keep you occupied here. Plus, I’m here to make sure you don’t get too lonely.” She flicks her hair over her shoulder.

“Right, yeah. Thanks.” I give a small, awkward chuckle, trying to refocus on work.

Before I can say anything else, the door swings open, and Astrid Koenig storms in like a gust of wind. She doesn’t even knock, just strides in as if she owns the place—which, let’s face it, she might as well.

She’s all sharp angles and business, her platinum blonde hair in