Virtually mirrored

The job

Westmore was changing a nutrient tank. Just over a week had passed from his talk with Audrey. Job kept him busy at least half of the days. Always something to do at the center. Not that he was any kind of specialist. Most of the time it was machines in his hand giving diagnostics about other machines, telling him what needed replacing. Still, certain things needed to go in order. A human being had to do it.

New pods arrived last week. Less work around them. More durable, larger and more easily changed tanks. Something new every year. Wasn't hard labor, but at least it was physical. If Westmore sat at a desk he'd probably look like his boss, a large blob of fat. Custom chairs provided, the regular ones broke under the man.

Change a tank, take the old one to cleaning and servicing. Mix a new batch, fill sterile tanks. Replace some electronics. Life went on. Even went out with a couple of his coworkers two days ago. His sad face said it all, needed cheering up. Not that he liked bars, always hated that. Picked up on a new popular game on the net, that kept him occupied at home. His wrist com chimed gently, the small screen showed his boss calling. Moved to one of the wall terminals and placed a hand on it. That fat face came up on the wide screen.
- Westmore there you are. Can you please come to my office after your work is done.
- Alright, anything critical? - he asked puzzled.
- No no, nothing that can't wait for the end of the day. Will see you later, carry on.

Connection ended and the day drew on. Done with all assigned tasks twenty minutes before the shift ended. Westmore proceeded to the twenty sixth floor and buzzed the office. "Senior Manager Ivan Blake" was engraved on the surface. Door opened promptly and he stepped inside. Blake stood and offered him a chair politely. When both were sitting he asked:
- What's up boss. - Rarely called Blake "boss". It was less formal than pleasantries, but the shift was almost over.
- I called you up here to talk with you. This is certainly not easy for me. - Something told Westmore he would like it even less. - You know the company strives to improve itself. Innovation every year. New equipment, new standards.
- Yeah. - The biggest lie that would come out of his mouth all week.
- Same as with everything, less labor is needed. - Blake tapped fingers nervously on the desk surface. - And with the new pods arriving over the following week... Management has decided to let go of two technicians. Sadly, you are one of those two. - A pit opened up in Westmore's stomach. He thought "You mean you decided you ahole!"
- Sooooo... I'm being fired? - Words came out of his mouth of their own volition. Brain didn't work anyway.
- You will get your severance, don't worry. You're still young, you can find new employment.
- But, I've been working here for five years almost... Some of the guys been here only two!
- Management took many elements into account. - "Ye I bet, like a couple being your cousins you fat blob" he thought. The fat jerk was visibly sweating, guilty conscience.
- Right. So that's just... it. I pack up and leave. - Blake raised a hand to his words.
- Wait Westmore. It's not like that. It's a regular two weeks notice. We will transfer the six months severance half pay into your account tomorrow. I will provide all the references needed. You were an outstanding worker, and I will make that clear if anyone ever checks.
- Oh. Thanks. - He said numb all over again.
- Understand... the world of VR business is always changing. But I want you to think of this as an opportunity, not a loss. After all you could get a much better job. You don't want to be stuck as a technician forever do you? - Westmore thought "You mean like your cousins you piece of... walking cholesterol".
- Sure. Opportunity.
- I wish all the best for you Nathan.

Blake stood and extended a hand. First time he called him by first name. Hand shaken Westmore left the office promptly. Hyperventilated in the elevator, then felt numb all over again. Watched those chubby hands as he traveled home. Wished they were skeletal and thin. He didn't want another job, didn't need another job. This one was just fine. Familiar, homey, safe. No longer safe. 

The sunset was bleak, colorless. The bottle of bourbon in his hand nearly empty as darkness fell. The city lights were once beautiful, now just noise that broke the senses. Tired, felt so very tired. The roof surface seemed to sway as he got up. Stumbled to the elevator. Used a hand against the walls to steady himself home. Went to bed half angry. Promised himself to at least steal some things from work. At least that. Just to spite them. Attempt at sleep was interrupted by a vomiting session, followed by guilt and empty bleak dreams.