Cheater Exposed

The driver sped down the road with remarkable speed. Within just over ten minutes, our group was standing outside the target hotel. Considering the size of our party, Fletcher Jensen suggested we select only a few key players to avoid alarming the target.

"Pick me!"

"Pick me!"

"Pick me!"

Fletcher raised his hand to calm everyone down, clearing his throat to speak. "Give me a reason to choose you."

The crowd erupted into a commotion—

"Fletcher, you always say I'm sharp and quick on my feet. You can't leave me out of this!"

"Fletcher, I consistently put in extra hours for the company. I've been labeled a workaholic, but I think I deserve this shot, at least for the effort if not the results..."

"I object! We were the first to volunteer. What are these newcomers even doing here?"

"Exactly! If it weren't for us speaking up, everyone would still be on that dull team-building bus ride. Where's your energy coming from now, huh?"

"Is this a guilt trip or what?"

"Come on, folks! Now's the time for meritocracy. Let's let our skills do the talking!"

...

Amidst the buzzing crowd, Fletcher suddenly locked eyes with me in the corner. His expression changed as he quickly got up from his seat.

"We're all here to support Carly Richardson and resolve her issue. Time is short, so let's be considerate."

With decisive clarity, he announced the chosen team: "Santiago from Legal, Alondra from Finance, Annabelle from HR, and that tech-savvy guy with the glasses. You all come with me. The PR team should get their equipment ready, and I want those of you who regularly hit the gym to follow along. And a few from the morale team should come too, but stay in the back and don’t push forward."

Fletcher's knack for rallying spirits kicked in as he addressed the rest, who were visibly disappointed. "For those not chosen, don't lose heart. Being passed over once doesn't mean you're not excellent. There will be other opportunities. Every experience is a chance to grow..."

Azrael Jensen couldn't hold back any longer and interrupted. "Stop talking, Fletcher! Carly's already heading upstairs!"