CHAPTER 4. SOMEONE LOSES, SOMEONE FINDS

And there he was, sitting right next to her. Disheveled — clearly hadn’t taken care of himself since being fired. No one to look after the poor soul. He needs someone to care for him. She should take him under her wing. This wasn’t the first time she’d noticed him. Her job required monitoring public sentiment, including social media activity. When the video featuring this middle-aged man appeared on screen, two pairs of eyes were trained on him. Work goes better with pleasant company. Nothing special—she and her partner were simply colleagues. She wouldn't mind some flirtation, but he was married and serious-minded. She was serious too, but unmarried. Had never been married.

Better to marry this fellow on the screen than her colleague. The people working in this organization lack normal human feelings. Perhaps they weren't such vile bastards when they first arrived, but by staying here instead of running away, they'd proven their moral bankruptcy. She didn't need that kind of husband.

This one on screen looked so pure and sincere, it nearly brought tears to her eyes. He understood what his superiors were doing to him, explained his analytical conclusions about election conduct with crystal clarity, displayed his human emotions—displayed them so beautifully.

"Stop!" her partner exclaimed.

"Yes, he should be punished for his loose tongue," she confirmed her readiness to take the speaker under development, to make him regret it and discourage others from following suit.

"Doesn't he remind you of someone?" her colleague inquired.

"Someone like that belongs on a poster with the caption: 'Loose lips are a spy's best friend.'"

"No, he's going to my department. His manner of speaking, facial structure, bearing—everything closely resembles our Number One. Plus that analytical mind and not a trace of offensive tone toward the election riggers. He's a living asset we could use even on live television if we lose our almighty eternal leader. Prime-time ready!" The doppelganger creator voiced his thoughts and hopes.

"Could I join your department too? Please," she asked, gazing into his eyes.

"I don't follow. Who exactly would we make you a double of?" he was bewildered.

"My darling, take me with you," she sang, grasping his fingers.

"I want to work on this man as part of your team. I'll punish him and show him mercy. You'll see how perfectly it all works out. You wouldn’t understand — you’re married, but this handsome man might be my last chance in life. I'll be forever grateful. Please, truly," she pleaded.