Bentley's POV
I was glad things were back to normal. Surprisingly, Mark had some conscience and did what was best for Damian.

Although, he spends long hours on video calls with Mark after work. He forgets about dinner some days until I have to bring it to his room or drag him out of bed.

The weirdest part was when they talked about sex over the phone. Mark would sometimes jerk off to Damian's voice. It was very disturbing when my eyes unconsciously glimpsed at the phone while he was at it.

I mean, if they can't go a day without talking to each other, why wouldn't they date? Well, it's good they're not boyfriends—Damian deserves better.

"Bentley, are you with me?" Mrs. Holly's soft voice pulled me from my thoughts.

"Yes!" I flinched, blinking.

"Are you sure you don't need a break?" she asked, a worried expression on her face.

"No," I replied, shaking my head. "I'm fine," I added, flipping the pancakes.

"Okay," she smiled, taking the orders and leaving the kitchen.

I sighed. It's disturbing the way that man has been invading my thoughts. It gets worse as the days pass.

Mia stayed back after closing, as she had been doing since the day she said we should be friends. I helped Mrs. Holly clean up the place before closing for the day.

"Ready?" Mia said, grabbing her bag and trailing behind me.

"Yeah," I answered.

Silence took over as we exited the shop.

Mia squinted. "Spit it out."

"Huh?" I turned my head, eyebrows furrowed in confusion.

"You've been off lately. Spill the tea. What's bothering you?"

My eyes dilated, surprised by the way she saw right through me. I exhaled. "Is it that obvious?" I asked, and she nodded.

I looked the other way. "It's nothing."

She tugged on my shirt. "C'mon! Tell me. I'll do my best to help," she pouted, doing the 'puppy-dog eyes.'

"Fine, I'll tell you," I rolled my eyes, and she beamed, leaning close to listen.

I tucked my hands into my hoodie pockets. "There's this person... that's been on my mind lately. I don't know the reason, but I keep worrying about them," I took a short pause. "It's strange because I don't like this person."

"Hmm... you do care about this person, right?" she asked, and I nodded.

"Have you always been that way?" she asked again, darting a glance at me, and I shook my head.

Mia gasped. "Maybe you have feelings for this person. Have you thought of that?"

I froze, my head spinning. Feelings? That's impossible. Damian is a man—I can never have feelings for a man.

I shook the thought off, narrowing my eyes at her. "You're wrong. That will never happen."

"Whoa! Calm down," she said, forcing a smile. "I'm just saying."

I stopped, my eyes widening at the magnificent structure. I checked the address on my phone to ensure I was in the right place.

The biggest restaurant in Maverick City had called me for a job interview. My nerves tensed up a bit, and my throat felt dry. Will I be able to get a job here? I wondered.

"Wow, this place is huge!" Mia exclaimed. "Good luck, Bentley. I know you can do it," she smiled.

Her words calmed my nerves a little. I smiled back. "Thanks."

Mia waited outside the premises while I proceeded to the venue. Thanks to the clarity of their directions, I was able to find the room just in time.

I glanced around the kitchen's wide expanse. Its marble counters reminded me of the ones at home, but this was much larger.

"Good evening," a voice said, drawing my attention.

"Oh, good evening. I'm here for—"

"The job, yes, I know that," he cut in. He sized me up with a glance and sighed. Turning, he cleared his throat. "So, you claim to be a cook, right?" he asked firmly.

I swallowed hard and replied, "Yes, I'm a cook."

I can't get intimidated in a job interview. This might be a test. I'll never be able to get a house if I fail to get in.

"The picture over there," he muttered.

"Pardon?" I asked, listening closely.

"You have fifteen minutes to perfectly replicate the dish. All the ingredients you'll need are provided," he explained. I turned my head to take a look.

"Your time starts now," he added.

I sprinted to the station, wide-eyed. This dish would probably take me twenty minutes to make. If I want to pass the test, I'll have to use my head. Think, Bentley.

I grabbed the knife, swiftly dicing the vegetables while the oil heated. Using three pots and a frying pan wasn’t what I bargained for. Well, it wouldn’t be the best restaurant if they hired just anyone. They were searching for the best, and I had to prove I was skilled enough to join.

I increased my speed, my eyes moving swiftly as I controlled everything.

As the time got closer, my heartbeat was the only thing I could hear. I turned off the cooker and dished the food onto a plate.

I finished the plating just as the timer lapsed.

"Stop!" the man commanded. I sighed in relief, holding my chest.

He stepped forward, scrutinizing every corner of the dish.

"Hmm, looks perfect..." he remarked. I smiled in relief, hopeful I had a chance.

"But does it taste perfect?" he frowned, glaring at me.

My limbs trembled slightly, my bones stiffened as he scooped the food and began chewing. He paused, his eyes dilating for a split second before setting the spoon down.

The man stared at me coldly. My stomach twisted, dying in anticipation.

I must've missed something. The time was purposely reduced to put me under tension and confusion. This test required speed, composure, concentration, and culinary skills.

He parted his lips to speak. I held my breath and bowed my head, bracing myself for criticism.

"Perfect. You're hired!" he smiled.

I exhaled the air I had been holding. "Thank you, thank you, sir," I replied.

***

I couldn’t stop smiling as I left the building. It was still hard to imagine I got a job at the biggest restaurant. With this job, I'll be able to buy my dream house in two months. Finally, I’ll be able to leave.

I hinted to Mrs. Holly earlier about my plans, and she encouraged me to go for it. I’d just have to tell her I could only work in the coffee shop on Saturdays and Sundays.

I lifted my head, jogging to Mia. She grinned, searching my eyes. "You got it, right?"

I smiled. "Yes."

"Oh my gosh! Congrats! We should celebrate," she yelled, nudging my sides.

I laughed. "Maybe another time."

Author's note:
Phew! Today was rough, but I still made it.

Don't forget to vote, comment, and tap the star below.❤️