In the quiet report room, the two auditors and the recorder were still seated, their expressions neutral as Raymond stepped in alone.
"Why are you the only one here? Isn't sylph with you today?" one of the auditors asked, his curiosity evident.
"Oh... she's feeling a little unwell today," Raymond replied casually.
Beep!
The sharp sound of the polygraph cut through the room like a knife. The room fell into an uncomfortable silence.
Raymond's toes curled against the soles of his shoes as his head dipped lower. He avoided meeting their eyes, feeling the weight of the awkward moment. The polygraph had betrayed him instantly; no delay, no mercy.
Who could endure such humiliation?
"Ahem..." The examiner coughed awkwardly, forcing a weak smile to ease the tension. "The polygraph must be malfunctioning."
Beep!
The machine chimed again, as if mocking him.
"Ford, bring in a new polygraph," the auditor ordered, his voice firm.