C94 I Don't Feel Like A Village Idiot

Alicia laughed. “They’re related, but they’re not exactly the same.”

Chris raised an eyebrow. “Now explain that in business language.” I couldn’t help laughing.

Alicia picked up her juice and pointed at me. “Michael’s department protects systems from attacks, hackers, viruses, and security threats.”

Then she pointed at herself. “My department focuses on how information moves throughout a company, how systems are designed, how departments communicate, and how technology supports business operations.”

Chris nodded slowly. “So you build the roads and he guards them?” Alicia’s eyes lit up. “Exactly!”

I pointed at Chris. “And your department makes sure the company actually earns money from those roads.”

The three of us burst out laughing together. “Good,” Chris said proudly. “At least now I don’t feel like the village idiot sitting between two computer geniuses.”

“Don’t worry,” Alicia replied. “You have your own talents.” Chris immediately became suspicious. “How do you know that?” “I just know.”

His eyes narrowed. “Have you been stalking us all along?” Alicia nearly choked on her drink. “Why would I stalk you?” She looked him up and down dramatically. “You’re too ugly.”

I nearly spat out my juice. Chris pointed at himself in disbelief. “Ugly?” “Look at me properly. Do I look ugly?”

Alicia nodded seriously. “See, that’s your problem.” “You only judge beauty from the outside.” “True beauty comes from within.” She couldn’t even finish her sentence before laughing.

Chris opened his mouth to argue. Then closed it again. he couldn’t find a comeback.