Chapter 44 Her Husband's Friend

Marcus Mcphee and Victor couldn't contain their excitement, their eager expressions aimed at Curtis said it all. Curtis, however, simply pursed his lips, understanding the meaning behind their looks even without them saying it. "I know you're curious about this just as much as we are, man," Marcus began with an animated argument. "I mean, sure, you've got all the confidence in the world, and you know you're a good-looking guy, but your wife is seriously attractive. And the guy she's dining with? Looks pretty darn good too. I don't know about you, but that's reason enough for a Situation Room meeting!" Marcus continued emphatically as though he was the one who was in a marital crisis. Curtis rolled his eyes at his friend's enthusiasm. "If you have nothing else to do, Marcus, go home and mind your own company instead." Marcus waved dismissively. The man and his penchant to change the subject! This was not the time for him to think about inheriting his family business and whatnot—this was a critical time for critical business between men! When he first heard of Curtis's super-secret-but-untold-to-the-world marriage, Marcus had been flabbergasted. He'd known Curtis since childhood and had insights into various aspects of Curtis's personality. That's why everyone had assumed Curtis would be the last to ever get married among their group of friends. But lo and behold, he was the first! "You know what? If you're not going to show any interest in this, I'll do it for free! I'll even provide live updates!" Marcus declared and dashed out of Curtis's office before Curtis could stop him. Victor exchanged a glance with Curtis and showed him a polite smile. "Don't look at me. I didn't know Marcus was going to spy on you... or catch your wife having lunch with someone else. But, between you and me, I'd be in crisis mode if this were my wife. Just saying." Victor might have said more, but he had to cut it short as he found himself on the receiving end of Curtis's intense glare. "I, uh, think I should go check on Marcus—uh, that is, make sure he doesn't reveal your identity as her boss and superior," Victor quickly added, trying to escape the uncomfortable situation. Curtis would have found Victor's excuse more convincing if the man could hide his gossipy excitement a little better. For crying out loud, why were his friends so nosy anyway? He was, admittedly, just as curious as to who the mysterious man might be. He wanted to see it for himself, but his sense of reason prevailed. He had an enormous pile of work to tackle. More importantly, it didn't feel right for him to interfere in their arrangement. It was all just a show with no emotional attachment meant to benefit both of them, so there was no need to display any possessiveness. Curtis returned to his documents, determined to focus on his work, but his mind refused to cooperate. He couldn't help but wonder about the "handsome man". Could he be Sabrina's ex-boyfriend?! Damn it, he could not take it anymore! He set his papers aside, grabbed his coat, and stormed out of his office, much to the surprise of his employees. Was their big boss about to conduct an impromptu productivity check?! To their relief, Curtis blazed past them without a second glance. But his sudden departure raised questions. Curtis rarely left his post early. Was today significant for some reason? * Marcus was actually taking a wild guess when he assumed Sabrina and Finnick were going for lunch. It was hardly noon yet, and their destination had always been the hospital. In reality, they had gone to purchase some fruits and food before heading to the hospital. Marcus's misunderstanding was causing problems. He had been searching various cafes and eateries in the area for a while but couldn't find them. While sulking, he heard a car honking loudly at him. It was Victor. "Get in, bro! This is a two-man mission!" Victor yelled. Stop him? Bah! Victor was just as big of a gossip king as Marcus was! Fortunately for Marcus, Victor knew more about Sabrina's life than he did. Victor immediately deduced that the most likely place to find her was the hospital, where her family was. They found Sabrina almost as soon as they arrived. Marcus was animated, imaginative, and loud, much like a reaction channel on YouTube. "Oh my God. Why is she here? Is she sick or... is she getting rid of Curtis's immaculate seed?" "The fuck? Her grandpa got into an accident the other day, man. She's here to see him," Victor corrected him immediately, rolling his eyes. Marcus flashed a wide grin and jumped out of the car. Time for some real action! He appeared in front of Sabrina just as Victor watched in disbelief. That guy didn't even close his car door when he got out. What was he thinking? Sabrina was equally bewildered because she had no idea who Marcus was until he introduced himself. With all the childlike excitement exploding out of him, Marcus declared, "Hey there! I'm Marcus McPhee, your husband's buddy!" Sabrina fell silent, and Finnick froze. Victor, meanwhile, buried his face in his hands.