Just as he was about to get up, his phone buzzed in his pocket. It was an email notification. He opened it, and to his astonishment, it was from Wentworth & Co. The message was brief but intriguing: “Mr. Johnson, we would like to invite you for a rescheduled interview at your earliest convenience. Please contact our office to arrange a suitable time.”

Confused but hopeful, Marcus immediately called the number provided and secured an interview for the next day. His mind raced with questions. Had someone at the firm learned about his actions? Had word somehow reached the decision-makers?