"Ugh, why am I even here? This isn't even a public event like last time," MJ Clarkson grumbled, running a hand over the back of his neck.
"Just gotta suck it up, man. Hang in there," Jake said softly beside him, sounding like he was running on fumes himself.
MJ glanced over and sighed. Jake had dark circles under his eyes that almost resembled bruises. The guy looked like he hadn't slept in days, yet he still found it in him to comfort others. He slapped Jake's back a little harder than a 'light pat.'
This guy was too damn kind for his own good. He thought, slightly shaking his head.
They walked in silence until the hallway opened into the massive, rounded assembly hall. The doors slid open with a hiss, and an icy blast of air-conditioning greeted them, waking them up.
Inside, the conference room gleamed with rows of holographic displays flashing [Welcome to the Finals], bathing the entire hall in shades of blue.
