CHAPTER 317: JUST BACK OFF

"Welcome, sir," the secretary greeted him with a warm smile. "Hi, dear. What do we have for today?" Stanley asked, even though he knew there was a lot to do. He didn't feel like doing anything; his mind was distracted by thoughts of his brother's girlfriend. "There will be an impromptu conference meeting at 10 a.m.," the secretary said. When Stanley didn't respond, lost in thought, she waved a hand in front of him. "Hello, sir, are you still with me?" "Uh... hmm... what did you say?" Stanley asked, snapping out of it. "I only heard 'meeting.' Sorry, dear, I was thinking about something." "There must be a lot on your mind. Take it easy, sir," she advised. "Just letting you know about the 10 a.m. meeting. And try to rest—you look so tired. Did you get enough sleep last night?" "Hmm... no," Stanley admitted. "Make sure to get some rest, okay?" the secretary said as she headed to her office. Stanley unlocked the door with ease, the sound of the cheap metal echoing in the hallway. A