25

XANDER’S POV

My phone buzzed on the table, vibrating furiously. I glanced at the screen and saw Victor’s name flashing. I wondered what he could want this early in the morning. I picked up the call.

“Hello, Victor. It’s been a long time,” I said, leaning back in my chair.

“Xander! Good to hear your voice,” Victor’s tone was cheerful but a bit hurried. “Listen, I need a huge favor from you.”

“Sure, what’s up?” I asked, curious.

“I’m supposed to speak at the Idea Fest today, but there’s been a change in my travel plans. I have a flight I can’t miss. I need you to replace me as one of the speakers.”

I paused for a moment, “Me? But I haven’t prepared anything. I don’t even know the details.”

“You don’t need to worry about that, all you have to do is share your experiences. Also, there’s another guest speaker, so you won’t be alone.”

“Who’s the other speaker?” I asked, feeling a bit more at ease but still skeptical.

“Don’t worry about that either. Please, Xander, I wouldn’t ask if it wasn’