Andre's phone buzzed on the desk, breaking the silence. He glanced at the caller ID — Arthur.
He sighed and picked up. "Yeah?"
"Hey, Andre! How've you been doing?" Arthur's voice was unusually quick and cheerful.
Andre frowned. "What do you mean, how have I been doing? I literally saw you this morning."
Arthur chuckled. "Can't I greet you? Even if I saw you right now, I could still ask how you're doing, can't I? Anyway, I'll cut to the chase — me and my girlfriend are traveling out."
"And how exactly does that concern me?" Andre asked, his tone clipped with annoyance.
Arthur hesitated for a moment. "It does concern you, actually. Because… I'll be proposing to her."
Andre blinked. "What—wait, you're proposing? Isn't that a bit early? What if she says no? And hold on — why are you telling me this like it's my problem?"
Arthur laughed nervously. "Just listen, will you? I want you to take care of her son while we're away."
Andre leaned back in disbelief. "You want me to what? Take care of her child? Why can't you just take him with you?"
"We would," Arthur said quickly, "but this trip is special — our 300-day anniversary. I want to make the proposal perfect. And before you say it, no, it's not too early. It's just right."
Andre rubbed his temples. "Whatever you say. But I'm not babysitting anyone."
"Come on, don't say that!" Arthur pleaded. "When we get married, that boy will be my son. And as my best — and only — friend, you're the perfect person to trust. I know you'll keep him safe."
Andre sighed, his eyes fixed on the office door, fingers drumming against the desk. "Fine. But I have one condition."
Arthur's tone brightened instantly. "Really? You'll do it? Oh man, thanks, bro! I knew you'd come around. So, what's the condition?"
"Do I have to be the one watching him? What if I bring someone I trust — someone I know personally?"
Arthur paused for a beat. "Sure, that's fine. As long as it's someone you trust, I'm okay with it. Anyway, gotta go *** she's here! Wish me luck!"
"Bye. Good luck," Andre said, though he doubted Arthur even heard him before the call ended.
He set the phone down and leaned back in his chair, exhaling deeply. The office felt quieter than before, maybe too quiet.