(sobbing emoji)
HocusPocus
Did he say he’s going to fire you? Duke wouldn’t do that.
But if he does, I’ll speak to him.
Nat-urallyBig
No no Uriel, it’s ok. He hasn’t fired me yet. I just think he’s going to
I called him A GOAT
Fuck my life
And now there’s weird stuff all around my desk
NotAWalrus
Weird stuff like what?
20
DUKE GOES OVERBOARD WITH NEST BUILDING
“Duke?”Nat said faintly, tucking his phone into his pocket.
His office chair was behind his desk. That was the only thing that had stayed the same.
Cardboard boxes had been strewn across the far side of the office. Around Nat’s desk, blankets had been laid out on the floor. They were fluffy, cozy, all pastel colors, and in such a thick layer that they looked like a dream to walk on.
Behind the desk, next to Wanda’s playpen, was a beautiful new wooden sideboard. Baskets of snacks adorned its top, and its half-filled shelves contained a variety of books, candles, and even some bottles that looked like aromatherapy oil.
Nat tiptoed closer, watching as Duke backed out of the space under his desk.
“I’ve just installed the mini fridge.” Duke nodded at the other side of Nat’s desk. “In case you want cold drinks or snacks. You won’t have to search in the break rooms on the other floors.”
“A mini fridge,” Nat said faintly.
“I’ll also install a fan and a space heater, in case you get too hot or cold.” Duke gestured at two unopened boxes to the side. “If you need something cozier, I’ve put blankets and sweaters in the sideboard.”
Nat scooped Wanda out of the playpen, still staring. “Blanketsanda space heater?”
“The office climate control takes a while to adjust the temperature,” Duke explained. “Having your own heating aids would work a lot faster.”
Nat gaped. “Why all this?”
Duke explained patiently, “Because I’m building you a nest.”
“Thisis a nest?” Nat squawked.
Duke looked concerned, suddenly. “Is there something I’ve missed?”
“No, no!” Nat glanced at the new potted plant in the corner, and the electric kettle on a cabinet further away.Thatcabinet was packed with actual bowls, plates, and cutlery, and filled with fancy-looking instant food. There was even a microwave oven, and a printed stack of restaurant menus. “This is all... a lot.”
Duke stood up. Only then did Nat realize that Duke had kicked off his shoes, his feet clad in socks against the blankets. “I’ve arranged for a larger fridge to be delivered,” Duke said. “It will be filled with fresh fruits, cheeses, and sandwiches in case you want something quick to munch on.”
“But there’s already a mini fridge,” Nat said helplessly.
