ALERA

“Hello. I’d like to see... Mr. Moretti.”

The receptionist looks up from her monitor. She’s different from the one who called security on me days ago. No tight bun or forced smirk. This one looks younger, her lipstick less intimidating and her smile more... welcoming.

She offers a polite nod. “Do you have an appointment?”

I hesitate. My throat goes dry. I'm reminded of my last time here, the way she ...