The Anderson Taxes

The Anderson Taxes

Sitting at my desk, it was already four o’clock, and I still had a mountain of work to do when my phone rang. My first thought was to ignore it but, I worried that it was one of the kids, or my mother needing help, something important. I’d never gotten around to setting up caller ID, I had to answer it.

Kicking myself for the hundredth time about caller ID, and for not getting to the Anderson account earlier knowing Sandra Anderson’s account would be it’s usual chaos, and for having that sub for lunch that didn’t settle well... I answered the call.

“Maggie Stevens! How can I help you today.” Corny, but our company requires it because their latest ad had some gorgeous actress saying it. As if she could even do her own taxes, let alone someone else’s!

“Your house is burning down!” came a low, unrecognizable voice.

I managed thirty seconds of panic before I realizing it couldn’t be, I was in it. “What are you talking about?” I said, a tad rudely actually.

“Your house is burning down. You need to do something.” came the voice. A salesman, obviously.

“First I’d call the police and tell them your phone call, which is undoubtedly a scam, is scaring people. Then I’d make sure I’d had you on the line long enough to have caller ID identify you so I could have you arrested! I think I’ve hit that moment just now!”

The caller had apparently already hung up. I bet he’s done for the day wherever he is...

Somehow Sandra Anderson, who is actually just a bit flaky, seemed manageable now. I bet I could have her taxes in order in an hour!

And I would have too, if the Fire Department hadn’t shown up just then...