Chapter 6: The Final Humiliation

Brian grinned wider, voice thick with condescension. “Eric, looks like you’ve hit a rough patch. Why not come work as a security guard at my company? Eighteen grand a month—beats serving coffee, right?” His cronies roared with laughter.

Someone chimed in, “Exactly, Brian could get you a job in no time. Way better than being a low-level clerk.”

I bit my tongue, torn between wanting to defend myself and wanting to run. Why did we have to tear each other down just to feel better?

The laughter was quieter now, meaner—just a few snickers and eye-rolls. I stood up, voice steady: “Sorry, I have things to do. I’ll be heading out.” Rachel caught my eye and gave me a small, supportive nod. I buttoned my coat, eager for fresh air.

Suddenly, Brian slammed a bottle of Jack Daniel’s onto the table so hard bourbon flew, splattering the white tablecloth. The room went dead silent. For a split second, everyone was watching me.