"I wonder what she meant by 'A bit too late?' I was curious to find out, but my primary concern was getting the answer to my question.

I stood there, filled with anticipation, looking slightly perplexed yet determined. Now that the decision had been made, I was prepared to see it through till the very end.

As I remained silent, observing their exchanged glances and laughter, I contemplated giving up. Maybe I was reaching for something beyond my grasp, and perhaps I should just be content with my job. It was something I genuinely desired and would benefit my life and aspirations.

Just as I was about to leave, Ciara called out to me. Her expression had grown more serious as she uttered, 'We understand your desires and thoughts, but it's not guaranteed that we share the same ones.' I felt even more bewildered at that moment.

'We are often confused with each other, so you'll need to prove yourself to determine who you truly encountered at the gathering. We'll arrange three dates with you, and if you correctly identify the person you met afterward, you'll receive the entire story. However, if you guess incorrectly, you may lose both what you seek and your job,' she concluded.

At this point, I wanted to tell her that I was quite interested in knowing, but simultaneously, I was deeply concerned about my job. It held significant importance for me."

"I'm going to look like a coward if I back out," I pondered silently, realizing that this wasn't what I had originally wanted. How can I extricate myself from this situation? What approach would David take?

Since I'm already here, I suppose I'll employ one of David's principles: "Never reveal weakness," he used to say. I adjusted my posture and approached her table, taking a quick glance at each of their faces.

"Alright, I think I understand the general idea. I'll need to provide you with a response before I leave work today, though. Is that acceptable?" I replied, stealing another glance at the group.

I sensed a subtle approval in their expressions, but it was difficult to be certain at that moment. I stood up and exited her office, aware of their unwavering stares.

Although I was relieved to have escaped the immediate situation, I couldn't shake the feeling of their gazes piercing through me as I walked away. I quickened my pace as soon as I stepped outside, eager to find solace in the tranquility of the nearby lounge.

"What a chaotic day. Why did I even agree to this?" I lamented. Before things spiral out of control, and considering I have only a few hours left before leaving work for the day, I need to come up with a suitable response for them. I made my way back to my office and picked up the phone to call David.

How would David counter this?

To be Continued...