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“We are working out our differences” I have no trace of lie in my voice

“I’ll talk to Bexley at our four o’clock battle royale What are your ideas?”

“I’ve found a corporate retreat that’s only fifteen hway It’s one of those places hiteboards all over the walls”

“Sounds expensive” Helene makes a face, which I had already anticipated

“I’ve run the nuet for this financial year”

“So e do at this corporate love-in?”

“I’ve already co activities We’ll do theularly mixed up I’d like to be the facilitator for the day I want to end this war between the Bexleys and Gamins”

“People absolutely hate team activities,” Helene points out

I can’t argue It’s a corporate truth universally acknowledged that workers would rather eat rat skeletons than participate in group activities I knoould But until business teaot

“There’s a prize at the end for the participant who’s est effort and contributes the most” I pause for effect “A paid day off”

“I like it,” she cackles

“Joshua is planning soh,” I warn She nods

She enters the Colosseu at each other

At five, Helene comes out of Mr Bexley’s office and arrives at my desk in an irritated state “Josh,” she tosses over her shoulder, her voice colored with dislike

“Ms Pascal, how are you?” A halo floats above his head