Over in the staff cafeteria, Alex went to grab some food, and Vincent handed Mandy a tissue. "So, what's going on with Tiffany? Why is she pitiful?" he asked.
After wiping her tears, Mandy replied, "Tiffany was saying how unfair the world can be. She feels like there are places where justice just doesn't exist.
"And without powerful connections, trying to stand up for yourself only brings more hurt. Vince, I feel really sorry for her."
A pang of empathy washed over Vincent as he asked, "What else did she say?"
Mandy's eyes welled up with emotion as she recounted, "Well, she mentioned that she grew up without parents, only having an older sister. And she was constantly bullied as a kid."
Her voice trembled with empathy as she continued, "Even though she said it so calmly, it really hit me hard. It made me look at my own life differently, you know?
"I've got loving parents and a brother who spoils me rotten. I've been so selfish and demanding sometimes. It's eye-opening. When I think about Tiffany's struggles, it's like I've been living in a fairy tale."
Vincent's lips curved into a reassuring smile as he replied, "It's truly remarkable that you're able to recognize that."
"Oh, by the way," Mandy reached into her pocket and pulled out a check, "Vince, I have to admit I lied to you earlier.
"Tiffany never asked me for this 100 thousand. She didn't ask for anything, really. She just agreed to switch seats with me. She's such a kind soul. I lost to her fair and square, and I'm fine with that."
Vincent raised an eyebrow. "Lost?"
"Yeah," Mandy said, taking a sip of her soup as her emotions settled.
"Vince, let's not dance around it. Even though I've only been here for a short time, I've noticed how much you care for Tiffany.
"You have feelings for her, don't you? And now that she's pregnant, it's time for you to step up and be there for her like a real man!"
Caught off guard, Vincent was momentarily unsure of how to respond to this unexpected revelation.
"Vince, you're just like my brother when it comes to emotions; a bit slow on the uptake. If you have feelings for someone, you need to admit them.
"Remember how my brother missed out on Bella because of that? If you have feelings for Tiffany, you need to speak up soon. Don't wait until someone else sweeps her off her feet, and you're left crying like my brother."
"If your brother heard you say that, he'd probably burst into tears again," Vincent chuckled at Mandy's remark. But beneath the humor, her words made him pause and seriously consider the situation.
Vincent couldn't help but wonder if he had feelings for Tiffany. Also, what was his deal with Tiffany, really?
Approaching them with a packed meal, Alex handed it over, saying, "Here's your food, Mr. Lewis. It's all light and appetizing, just like you asked."
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