Tweaked world

Chapter Two

The atmosphere was harmonious as the three people chatted about trivial matters, carefully avoiding the main reason for the young man's visit. Drix had already offered the man some refreshments, which he munched on happily, much to Drix's displeasure and annoyance. The lady, Lily, on the other hand, was dying of laughter at the subtle enmity between the two, evident in how they kept eyeing each other.

"So, Mark, what's your plan now that the company won't be continuing with your novel? Just so you know, there's too much ambiguity in your manuscripts. Readers don’t want to stress their brains too much to enjoy a good work of art," Drix fired at the young man. Mark, caught off guard by the words, forced a strained smile. It wasn’t much of a surprise, as an argument had already sparked between the two the first time Mark submitted his draft for a makeover to his newly assigned editor during his initial contact with the firm.

Regarding the question, Mark replied with a forced smile, "Well, for that, I have to keep on writing my books, whether they make sense or not. The people who will appreciate my work will rise sooner or later, but it will surely take time to reach the heights of literary giants. By the way, Mr. Drix, what has the managing director said about my last work?" Mark asked, glancing at the two with anticipation.

At this, the colleagues exchanged glances, silently communicating with their eyes. After a few moments of silence, Lily cleared her throat to answer him, but just then, the door to the managing director's office opened. A man in his late 50s, dressed in a grey formal suit and tie, stepped out majestically. This was the managing director of Globe Publishing House, Mr. Shawn.

Mr. Shawn spotted Mark sitting with his employees and walked over to them in large strides. Upon reaching the trio, he playfully slapped Mark on the shoulder with a big smile.

"What a surprise, my young friend. What wind blows you to grace our doorstep today? I do hope that Drix here offered you some refreshments. What! Drix, what a poor way to entertain our esteemed guest. Well, Mark, come along with me to the office." With that, he led Mark away, leaving Drix and Lily relieved.

Inside the office, Mark sat facing the middle-aged MD of Globe Publishers. The office was well decorated and exuded a scholarly vibe. A bookshelf filled with various genres of books showed that the MD was an avid reader.

The director offered the young man a cup of hot chocolate from his dispenser and watched as he sipped it, as though quenching his troubled heart. It could be said that this was the usual treatment given to talents who sought out the company. However, this gesture once led to an amusing incident when a man in his 30s rushed downstairs to buy bread from a nearby kiosk, dipped it into the chocolate, and munched on it while discussing book business with the shocked director. Despite that, the director never stopped offering hot chocolate to guests.

"So, Mr. Mark, your books are quite promising for a graduate like you, but our publishing house feels too small and undeserving of such talent. May I kindly suggest that you check out other great publishing houses in Urrn?" Mr. Shawn subtly hinted at his unwillingness to continue working with Mark.

This news shattered the last piece of composure Mark had. He slid from his chair to the floor, though luckily, his hot chocolate was long finished, sparing him a scalding experience.

"Sir, please reconsider your decision. I graduated just three years ago, and I have no job. I really need a job to sustain myself and my parents. Please. I have always dreamed of impacting the world through my work," he pleaded, tears rolling down his face. However, it seemed the director had already made up his mind.

• Just as Mark was about to break into full-blown sobs, the director gave him a stern look and reached for his telephone—a silent threat to call security and have him disgracefully escorted out. Understanding the signal, Mark quickly stood up, wiped his tears, and made a swift exit.