BOUNDED BY NOMS

THE MEETING

Matt stood outside the conference room, his heart racing with anticipation. He took a deep breath, smoothing out his suit jacket and trying to calm his nerves.

Liam emerged from his office, a smile on his face. "Ready for this, Matt?"

Matt nodded, feeling a surge of confidence. "I was born ready."

The meeting was a whirlwind of discussion and debate, with Matt presenting his ideas and Liam providing guidance and support. As they wrapped up, Matt felt a sense of pride and accomplishment.

But as they left the conference room, Matt's coworker Rachel approached him, her expression icy. "Well, well, well. Look who thinks they're the golden boy now."

Matt's smile faltered, but Liam stepped in, his voice firm. "Rachel, let's focus on the project. We have a lot of work to do."

Rachel's eyes flashed with anger, but she backed down, muttering under her breath. Matt watched her go, feeling a mix of gratitude and unease.

As they walked to the elevator, Liam turned to him. "Don't let her get to you, Matt. You're doing great work."

Matt smiled, feeling a sense of appreciation for Liam's support. "Thanks, Liam. I appreciate it."

The elevator doors opened, and Liam stepped in. "Want to grab lunch together? We can discuss the project's next steps."

Matt's heart skipped a beat as he hesitated. Was this a work lunch or something more?

As Rachel walked back to her desk, she pulled out her phone and dialed Sophia's number. Sophia answered on the first ring.

"Hey, Rach. What's up?" Sophia's voice was bright, but Rachel could sense the underlying tension.

"It's Liam," Rachel said, her voice low. "He's completely lost it. He's favoring that new guy, Matt, over everyone in the office."

Sophia's tone turned icy. "What are you talking about?"

"I'm talking about how he's always smiling at him, always finding excuses to touch him or talk to him. It's like he's forgotten about everyone else. And Liam's always telling me to ignore Matt, like he's some kind of threat."

Sophia's voice dripped with disdain. "That new guy thinks he's so special just because Liam's noticed him."

Rachel's anger simmered. "Exactly! Liam doesn't even see us anymore. He's completely under Matt's spell."

Sophia's tone turned calculating. "I'll take care of this. Don't worry, Rach. Liam will come back to his senses soon."

As Rachel hung up, she felt a sense of satisfaction. Sophia would take care of Matt, and Liam would finally see sense.

Meanwhile, Liam and Matt walked to a nearby café, laughing and discussing the project's details. Matt felt at ease with Liam, but he had no idea the storm brewing behind the scenes...