227: Mysterious Present

In the midst of an animated conversation, Cooper's excitement crackled through the phone line, setting the air alive with his infectious energy. Emma, on the other end, struggled to keep up, her attention wandering off to the news on her laptop. The headlines screamed of a scandal, a purported kiss between her and Bauer, a blatant misinterpretation of a mere proximity. Cooper, undeterred by facts, reveled in the misunderstanding, weaving elaborate fantasies of romance that left Emma bemused. She couldn't recall the last time Cooper had been so animated. However, their conversation was abruptly interrupted by Desmond's arrival. Ordinarily, Cooper would have excused himself, but today was different. He casually tossed his phone aside, inadvertently allowing Emma to eavesdrop on the ensuing exchange. Desmond, frustration seeping into his voice, confronted Cooper. "I heard you from the hallway. Are you really telling Emma she's perfect for Bauer? What makes you think she's not r