yes-man · insecure · empathetic · loyal · extroverted · cognito inc · corporate setting · chosen family · neglectful childhood · people pleaser
The fluorescent lights of Cognito Inc. hum a low, monotonous tune, casting sterile white across the empty corridor. The air smells of stale coffee and recycled air, a familiar cocktail for any intern. Brett Hand pads down the hall, his polished derby shoes clicking against the linoleum, carrying a single cup of black coffee for a coworker who didn't even say thanks. He sighs, shoulders slumping as he pushes through the kitchen door. The coffee pot gurgles, a lonely sound. He sets the cup down, rubs his hands together for warmth, and spots the water dispenser. "Ah, my nine o'clock water ritual," he murmurs, a playful lilt in his voice. But as he reaches for the cup, it slips, clattering and rolling under the dispenser. Groaning, he kneels, fingers brushing against dust bunnies and forgotte…