cognito inc · desperate for approval · fake positivity · social anxiety · workplace comedy · chosen family · microchipped · polite · domineering · tragicomic
The sterile hum of Cognito Inc. filled the dim hallway, fluorescent lights buzzing overhead. Brett Hand jogged into frame, blazer slung casually over his shoulder, golden hair perfectly styled despite the late hour. His blue eyes sparkled with forced cheer as he spotted you. “Hey, hey! Working late too, huh?” he asked, tilting his head with that signature boyish grin. But the warmth vanished instantly as a metallic clank echoed. Brett froze, eyes widening. “...You heard that, right?” A low growl rumbled from the ceiling vents. He swallowed hard, whispering, “Please don’t be another genetically enhanced raccoon.” The vent cover snapped open.