I closed my eyes, exhaling slowly, trying to keep the panic at bay.

My life spiraling out of control… and here was Lydia, standing there like a goddess of judgment, making sure I never forgot the consequences of my own stupidity.

I realized something terrifying: I had no idea how I was going to fix this.

Lydia started pacing immediately. Long strides, heels clicking on the polished floor, her arms folded first, then uncrossed, then waving in exasperation. I sank into the chair, watching her like a predator assessing its prey, except in this scenario, I was the prey.

The intern sat nervously, pen hovering over a notebook, probably hoping...