Love's Bitter Edge (Eva and Leonard)

Chapter 506 Afternoon Snack Drama

I could see Mackenzie fuming and practically stomping her feet in frustration through the conference room glass. Still, she didn't dare storm in. She wasn't the real Ms. McLennon, after all. If her cover got blown, her job would be toast. After wrapping up the meeting, I returned to my office only to spot a familiar pastry box. The packaging showed that it was from my favorite bakery. Mackenzie was busy handing out snacks to the team. When she noticed us walking in, she tilted her head up with a smug grin.

"Oh, my brother-Mr. McLennan-stopped by earlier. He got these for everyone to enjoy," she said, so full of herself.

Astrid and I exchanged a look, both equally puzzled.

Jack went out of his way to buy pastries and let Mackenzie hand them out? Was he openly backing her now?

Even Mr. Finnley was quick to pile on.

"Wow, Mackenzie, you've got serious pull! Mr. McLennan himself came by with pastries-what an honor! I thought he was here to inspect us. It scared the hell outta me!" he added, laughing nervously.

The rest of the team chimed in, fawning over her just as much. Mackenzie soaked it all up, finishing the pastry distribution before tucking the last two portions back into the box. Her gaze landed on Astrid and me.

My brother said

Jack's number. The call went straight

head to Manovia for a project. I won't be gone long. I brought your favorite afternoon snacks. Eat more you're too skinny. I'll

want some of the pastries?"

"No, you go

not get another

Mackenzie's blatant favoritism

her side. Mr. Finnley, in particular, was relentless. It was like he had found an excuse to pick on me non-stop-format errors, slow turnaround times, everything... The guy didn't give me a moment's peace

cherry on top? He "accidentally"

zero remorse, he shrugged it off. "The system's buggy. I didn't know it'd be deleted for good." He smiled, though it looked as fake ever. "But since the deadline's looming, guess you'll have

the office. Astrid balled her fists, muttering under

down and painstakingly redid my design. It wasn't until 8:00 pm that Jack finally called. "Are you home? Did you eat the pastries? Which one's your favorite?" Hearing

of