Flip Me Around (bxb)

The Unwanted New Guy [5]

"As you grow older, you will discover that you have two hands, one for helping yourself, the other for helping others." - Audrey Hepburn
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Jayden and Fletcher nonchalantly stroll through the park as the musician counts his earnings. Fletcher usually does performances three times a week because Zizi has him running errands on the other days. He'll save today's money for next week, which will come soon.

The former CEO comes to the edge of the park's pond, staring at his own reflection in the water. He is a mess; if anyone saw him like this, he wouldn't hear the end of all the jokes about him. The topic would be: Ruthless Business Tycoon Stumbles in the Streets.

Jayden tries to fix his disheveled hair with his fingers, brushing it. He then adjusts the collar of his button up and his tie before glaring at his shameful appearance.

"Graaaah!!" the businessman loosens his tie, then removing it from his person. He chucks it onto the grass, stomping on it.

Fletcher sits on the grass, laying his violin case next to him. He stares at Jayden who's panting after the outburst of anger. The musician leans back, using his arms as support. He continues to examine the guy until Jayden returns the gaze.

The silence must have calmed him because Jayden then plops two feet next to Fletcher. The man throws his head back, looking up at the bright sky.

Fletcher takes this time to retrieve the crumpled tie from the ground. He sets it next to his violin. What's the use of wasting a good tie? Someone from his camp could use it for a job interview.

"Tell me your story," says Fletcher.

Jayden face scrunches up before he glances at the musician. He shakes his head, "You're persistent, you know?"

"That's why I'm asking. Come on, I've heard every sob story in the book. Believe me. You have my ears, man." Fletcher flashes a goofy grin.

The former CEO huffs out a sigh, "Alright alright." His eyes roam the park as he says out loud, "Where do I begin? I, the successful boss or I, the boss that everyone hates?"

"Well that's a depressing way to put it," hums Fletcher. He spectates a group of ducks swimming in the pond. Jayden raises an eyebrow at the relaxed figure next to him.

Fletcher suggests, "Tell me about the successful boss, then."

"The successful Jayden Maverick..." the businessman starts. "Takes an already growing company and quadruples the growth. It's wasn't long until WME became a known business empire. My net worth is over a billion dollars. The company is stable and continues to rise in branded items and entertainment."

It's surprising to find a fortunate man like Jayden, end up on the streets. He glances at the businessman, "You could pay off your loan sharks if you are that rich or are you really cheap?"

Jayden faces Fletcher with a confused expression. He frowns, "Why do you keep going on about loan sharks?"

"I thought you were running away from men who you owe."

"No," shakes Jayden. "Don't tell me, you owe money?"

"No!" Fletcher diverts his attention to the grass. His slim fingers pull at the green blades. He mumbles, "I know someone who does though."