By the time the bid ended, a storm had erupted outside.
Layla stood at the entrance of Stratos Group's building and frowned at the sheets of rain. She had no umbrella. The app showed over 100 people ahead of her—six-hour wait.
Blake's car was gone—his mother had fallen, and he'd rushed to the hospital.
Layla sent him a message.
Layla: Drive safely.
Then she remained beneath the awning, debating whether to run through the storm to the subway or wait there until the end of time.
Her phone rang. It was Gavin.
"Layla, you're finished, right? It's pouring outside. I'll send the driver to pick you up."
Layla stared into the rain and remained silent for 2 seconds. "All right."
If he wanted to make amends, she would let him. It was better than getting drenched.
She waited 40 minutes. No
