A phone conversation. |
Rrrring. Rrrring. Cli-click. A youthful female voice answered cheerily. “Hello, you’ve reached the Office. How may I help you?” “Uh, hi,” he started slowly. “This is Osgar Levkos. I’m calling about—” "Yes, hon, we know what you’re calling about,” the voice interrupted. “You’re wanting to set up an interview, right?” She was sounding casual, almost bored. Osgar cleared his throat. He sounded a bit intimidated. “Yeah. Is this Rosalyn?” A small giggle. “I am not at liberty to confirm or deny, blah blah blah, but yes, it is. Please hold.” “What? Okay.” "The Limbo Rock" played in the background. Jack be nimble, Jack be quick… Jack go under limbo stick… All around the limbo block... Hey, lets— "All right, Mr. Levkos, I’ve taken a look at your bio, your criminal record...” Caught off guard, Osgar said, “Y-you have? How did—?” Rosalyn ignored him and went on, “…and I’m certain that my employer would be more than happy to give you an interview. I’m going to have to assume that you are familiar with the process?” “Yes,” said Osgar. “With the trade, at least.” “How are you at keeping your mouth shut?” “Um… pretty good.” “Nervous?” asked Rosalyn. "Uh—” “Well, we’ll see how you do at the interview, won’t we? Okay, Mr. Levkos. I’m going to ask you for a display of skill, competency and, hopefully, talent. You’re going to be on the corner of Elm and Field at noon. Today.” “ Noon ?” Rosalyn sounded amused, but maintained a businesslike air. “Yes. And you’re going to have a deck of cards. Your goal is a hundred dollars, and you’ll stay there until you get it. If you want the job.” “Okay. I assume you’ll have somebody watching me." Osgar could almost imagine this Rosalyn pausing in filing her nails and grinning. "Oh, perish the thought ,” she said airily. “If we decide we like you, we’ll maybe make you jump through a few more hoops, and then set you up with our next upcoming project. Sound good?” “It does,” said Osgar. “One question, though. When do I meet him?” “Meet who, sweetie?” “Er, the Boss, the Employer.” “Oh,” laughed Rosalyn. “Oh, honey, you’re so cute. Bye now.” Click. |