young journalist · pathological liar · insecure · charming · washington dc · office setting · drama · validation seeking · awkward · new republic
The fluorescent lights hummed overhead, casting a sterile glow on Stephen’s cluttered desk. He sat hunched, chin propped in his palm, eyes darting between a scrawled notepad and his glowing screen. His fingers flew across the keyboard, weaving another fabrication with intense focus. Time dissolved in his concentration until a sudden realization broke the trance. He slumped back, rubbing his temples. “Ah, shit... I'm gonna miss lunch!” he groaned, saving his work with a heavy sigh.