Charlie already took a seat from across the room, with Claudia standing beside him. Richard trudged over to the other side of the table and had a seat. The only other thing visible was a small desk lamp.

The back of Richard’s skin crawled, like he’s being interrogated in the police station. That uneasy feeling, especially with the info he’s hiding, made his stomach do twists and turns. This guy couldn’t be involved with them, right? So, why was he at unease? Was it the way the boss looked when serious? The atmosphere in which they’re doing the interview? Charlie rested his elbows on the table and his hands on his chin.

“Are you ready?” He asked with a sly smile. “Answer these sets of questions truthfully.”

“Alright,” Richard replied.

“First off, why did you want to apply here?”

“Well, I hadn’t found any places that seemed like I could handle them, so...”

“Why not B.E.E.S.?” Claudia suggested. “So many people go there.”

“That’s not true...” Charlie thundered.

“Then why are they not coming here—?”

“Well, I tried to apply over there.” Richard interrupted. “But their wages weren’t good, and I wasn’t ‘good looking.’”

Claudia adjusted her glasses. “But would you have considered if—?”

“Um, I don’t know—”

“Claudia, that’s enough!” Charlie slammed his hands on the table, making them both jump.

“I’m sorry.” Claudia lowered her head. She looked over and noticed Richard staring at her. “What? Do you not think I make a good assistant?”

“When did I give off that vibe?” Richard questioned.

Charlie explained she wasn’t too trusting of other people, especially those she’s never met, before continuing with the interview. “Have you done any other jobs in the past?”

A case of content theft: this narrative is not rightfully on Amazon; if you spot it, report the violation.

“Oh, well, I worked part-time with someone in the retirement home.” He gripped his pants before continuing. “Her name was Emily, she’s a carefree worker, tough, but kind-hearted, and cares for other people. I do love helping her out, but sometimes she can be pretty strict, or I don’t feel like it.” Richard’s eyes grew misty-eyed. “Even so, I miss her.”

“Sorry to hear that.”

“E—Excuse me?” Claudia raised her hand and spoke up. “Richard, was it? Did you say, Emily?”

“Yes, why do you ask?”

“Uh, never mind, it’s not a part of my business. It’s probably not who I thought it is, anyway.”

“Look, I’m sorry for ruining things. I don’t think you’d want to hire me now...”

Charlie chuckled. “I like you, and I need more workers, so—”

“Are you serious?” Claudia asked. “No offense, but this guy doesn’t seem to have much experience. What job would possibly fit him?”

“Don’t worry, I got an idea.” Charlie reached to shake Richard’s hands. “Congratulations, you got yourself a job!”

“I do?” Richard let this sink in as he stared at his hand. His face brightened up. “Sweet! Thanks so much!”

As the group headed out of the area, Fawn loomed and watched, thinking about what just happened. That interview didn’t seem all that stellar. Yet he got the job, no problem. Hm…

.-.-.-.

Once everyone arrived back at the main lobby, the group caught Kelly beside the counter, shutting the computer for the day. She took out her bag and pulled out a green and black tracksuit.

“Hi Kelly, taking a break?” Charlie asked.

“That’s right.” She placed the tag that said ‘out to lunch’ on top of the desk.

“Any idea where Ken is?”

Her smile faded. “Not here today, I’m afraid.”

“Again? I see that’s too bad. Do you know when he’ll be back?”

“Not a clue.”

Charlie thought about it for a while before responding. “A-ha, I know who can give our new employee a tour! I’ll be right back!” He exclaimed while jogging off.

Richard approached Kelly with a smile. “Hey, guess what Kelly, I got the job!”

“Well, I could tell by your expression, but congrats,” Kelly chirped.

“Thanks, so when you finish your break...”

“I don’t know when that’ll be the case.”

“Well, when you return, maybe we could—”

“I’m back!” Charlie interrupted from a small distance. “Are you coming?”

“But I wasn’t done with—” Richard declared, then sighed. “Never mind, I don’t want to stall any longer.”

“It’s ok,” Kelly replied. She waved, showing off the ring on her finger. “I’ll see you later.”

Richard’s smile fell off as he watched her walk away. He shoved his hands in his pockets and headed over to follow Charlie upstairs. There wasn’t time to feel like this.