The Greatest Lie

Mistakes Were Made

Psychological experiments had been done in the past, proving that good natured people could easily be corrupted when given power to freely reign. It was addictive and consuming when people always looked to you for answers. An inflated ego was hard to burst when you could punish someone for even the slightest remark. The mindless workers controlled by M Corp had been physically and metaphorically beaten into submission and the bottom of the barrel M Corp security officers acted as if they walked on air. This trained mentality was what M Corp wanted, as it allowed for a totally obedient working class that never questioned the work that M Corp requested they do. Lower level employees did whatever they could to get brownie points and make a name for themselves, even if that meant turning on your fellow employee. The higher up the ranks you could move, the more benefits you were awarded, which instilled a ruthless motivation to do whatever it took to get ahead in life. Getting on the good side of your superiors could land you a promotion that would change your life, even if it meant throwing your coworker in front of a bus. Scandalmongers would fabricate stories about their peers to try and get a leg up, sometimes blatantly making up a story that had no truth behind it. Lies would be constructed to try and get someone reprimanded if it meant you get your competition out of the way. Russell was more naive than other kids his age, especially those whose parents were not at the same level in M Corp, but his intuitions told him someone would not put all this effort into helping him unless there was a payoff somewhere.

With a full belly and a curious mind, Russell waited patiently for Bill to finish eating. He could tell that Bill was pleased with himself for trying to help Russell, but all the bragging and boasting was beginning to get to him. Bill took pride in his job, but it was obvious that he did whatever he could to try and receive recognition for all the effort he put forth. This childish need for attention put Russell off the longer he had to interact with him. This was supposed to be a grown man who had his life together and he had constantly tried to show off to Russell since finding him in the old warehouse. Russell's only desire was to help the cause of pushing forward the lottery, not to get stuck helping M Corp in the meantime. He felt like if he needed M Corps help he could have just asked his parents to do this. It was during this time of reflection that Russell's eyes wandered around the cafeteria. He had to do a double take to make sure his eyes were not fooling him, but standing in the doorway assessing what was available for tables was his parents. One of his Mom's eyes was swollen shut and black and blue, while her nose was double its size. He tried to avert his attention to not be seen by them, but it was too late. His Dad had spotted him and by the time Russell tried to sneak a glance back at them, they were already almost at his table.

"What are you doing here Russell? Did you get in trouble? We are so sorry if he did something wrong, he's become obsessed with the lottery and we just don't know what to do anymore." Russell's Dad began questioning him before turning his attention to Bill.

"No need to apologize. I take it you two are his parents. I found him sleeping in the old warehouse and figured I'd help him out. He's in good hands now, I'm going to take him upstairs and see if we can find him something to do before the draft." Bill explained, trying to act like he was the savior that Russell needed.

"I don't think that's necessary, you've done enough to help. We had a little family disagreement but we are going to work it out. Russell, if you're finished why don't you grab your bike and go home. We will be home for dinner." Russell's Dad replied as his Mom cowardly watched from behind his shoulder and Russell sat there in silence.

"Oh, don't be silly. They are going to round them all up shortly, he's just going to get a head start. Russell is thrilled that I'm helping him out, aren't you Russell?" Bill shot back while sending a stare in Russell's direction.

"I think I'd like to go home, Bill. Thanks for everything, but I think my Dad's right." Russell tried to reply but Bill was beginning to get defensive about him changing his mind.