Chapter 21 - Nick.
Paul walked in a few moments later, his suit perfectly tailored, but the nervousness was written all over his eyes. He smiled at me, somewhat cautiously, and approached the desk. "Good morning, Mr. Martinez," he said. I didn't reply immediately. I took a slow drag from my cigar and let the smoke spread lazily through the room. I wanted to watch him sweat in the silence. Finally, I gave a faint smile—the kind of half-smile that never reveals whether it's approval or mockery. "Good morning, Paul. Today is your first day. And let's make something clear..." I leaned forward, my eyes locking onto his. "There is no adjustment period here. Either you prove you can rise to the occasion... or you walk out that door for good." I saw his fingers tighten slightly around his briefcase. He tried t
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