CHAPTER 48

Wayne's deep thoughts were abruptly interrupted by a series of persistent knocks resonating from outside his office. He sighed softly, realizing that his brief moment of solitude was about to be shattered. "Come in," he called out, his voice composed yet tinged with a hint of annoyance. He straightened his back and adjusted himself in his swivel chair, preparing to face the unwelcome intrusion.

As the door swung open, his eyes met the familiar face of his ever-smiling friend, Brent. Wayne's initial reaction was to ignore him, determined to dive back into the words that had captured his attention. However, curiosity got the better of him, and he reluctantly lifted his gaze to acknowledge Brent's presence. "Good afternoon. I heard you haven't eaten your lunch. Are you really that busy?" Brent inquired, his voice laced with genuine concern as he strolled toward Wayne's cluttered desk.

"I'm not hungry. What are you doing here?" Wayne responded, his eyes instinctively returning to the docu