Are you kidding? Are you joking? / Is this really true?
To sideline someone To push someone away from an important role or decision.
Quid pro quo Something given in return for something else.
I owe you You helped me, so I should help you later.
Let’s give it a shot Let’s try it.
To have no leverage To have no power or advantage in a situation.
Semblance of ordinary Something that feels a little normal, even if things are not truly normal.
Wary of doing something Careful or nervous about doing something because there may be risk.
To have a lot on your mind To be thinking or worrying about many things.
Come aboard Join us; become part of the team or group.
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