Julian's phone had been ringing non-stop for the past hour. Each time he answered, his expression grew more pinched. Elara observed him from her workstation, noting how his normally calm demeanor had given way to terse responses and thinly veiled irritation.
"Yes, I understand your position," Julian said, pacing near the window of their shared office space. "But as I've explained, we need more time to consider the proposal."
Elara could hear the faint sound of a persistent voice on the other end. Julian caught her eye and rolled his eyes dramatically.
"We'll be in touch by the end of the week, Mr. Lopez. That's the best I can offer right now." He ended the call with a sharp tap on his screen.
"Jorge again?" Elara asked, turning away from her computer.