Chapter 8: The Showdown

Brian pressed closer, voice dripping with malice. “Eric, are you saying I picked up your leftovers? Or are you claiming you’ve found someone better than Jessica?”

A couple of his friends stood up, crowding behind him. “Yeah, Eric, what do you mean? Is your girlfriend better than Jess?”

I kept my cool. “That’s not what I mean. Jessica’s great, but my girlfriend’s my goddess. I love her very much.”

Jessica perked up, obviously curious. Brian smirked. “So, what does your girlfriend do?”

“She’s a pilot in the Air Force. She’s usually out of state.”

Jessica shot back, “There are only a handful of female fighter pilots. Can you tell us her name?”

I shook my head. “Military rules. I can’t just give out her name. I really have something urgent now. Can you have your fiancé open the door and let me leave?”

For a split second, the room was silent—then everyone burst out laughing. “What, is she a secret agent too?” someone cackled. I checked my watch. 7:56. I had to get out.

Before I could move, several hotel staff blocked my way. Brian leaned in, mocking: “I think you’re addicted to showing off. Don’t you know who my dad is in this city?”

I shot him a cold look. “Whether I’m bragging or not is none of your business. If you make me miss my meeting, you’ll have to deal with the consequences.”