“No issues. Everything is going according to plan,” he says, smiling. “Phew, I thought you were going to tell me you needed additional functionality.”
The words,whose plan?shoots into my mind, but I stomp down on them as another wave of heartburn stabs through my chest.
Could Todd be involved?
“That’s great,” I say, forcing another smile.
Todd’s frown deepens, and he steps further into the room.
“Is everything okay? You seem…”
“I’m fine,” I say, almost through gritted teeth.
What could be wrong?
An unknown person has compromised my login and made hundreds of code changes in my name, some of which are already live. Worse case scenario, my reputation is ruined, I lose the company, fifteen years of devotion, gone in the blink of an eye.
How the fuck, doesThe Cyber Guytell his clients his software and company have been compromised right under his nose, and he’s only just noticed?
My vision narrows as my stomach roils violently.
“I’m popping out for an hour,” I say, standing up.
Todd’s eyebrows rise slightly.
“Okay,” he says, rubbing his chin, his eyes narrowing.
“Are you sure everything’s okay?” he asks again.
No!I want to shout. Instead, I take a deep breath.
“Yes. Why?”
He shrugs. “I don’t know. You seem a little.…distracted.”
I square my shoulders, tightening my muscles.
Todd’s my friend, although that might be pushing it. A close acquaintance. I don’t let people get close to me, not anymore.
He takes in my expression and holds up a hand. He offers me an encouraging smile.
“Elijah, please don’t take this the wrong way, but as your friend and colleague. You’ve been through a lot recently. You need a break. Why don’t you take a holiday after this release goes live? Get away somewhere hot.”
I look away, no longer able to hold Todd’s gaze. Instead, I stare at my desk.
Get away? After this release, there’ll be nothing left.
I say nothing.
What can I say?
I press my lips together as I try to stop the tic in my jaw. I need to get out of here before I say or do something I can’t take back.
Todd continues, oblivious to my churning stomach.
“You’ve been working too hard. Since Lottie went to visit her mum in Italy, you’ve been here every weekend with the developers. I have to say something. It’s not healthy, you’re going to burn out.”
Keep cool, Elijah.He means well.
