The Human Zoo (1)

Chapter 4 - Jax

The sound of pounding rain against the glass distracts me from the news bulletin. The tiny droplets trickle down the window as if clinging by the last bits of their strength. My feet are up on my polished white desk with my hands behind my head. A stranger would think I'm relaxed; I'm not.

Today marks my first full year at The Globe, the leading journalistic organization for the world. Since I started writing columns and articles a year ago, my reputation, as well as The Globe's, has grown drastically. My inclination to stir ideas and test the limits is what landed me this job; now, my reputation is being tested. Year one reviews are the most important here. Without a solid first annual review, future promotions are ten times harder to receive. The intercom on my desk lights up a vivid blue to signal a call. My thumb jams a black button before I press the glowing blue to stop the incoming hologram, forcing a voice conversation instead.

"Jax speaking," my voice quivers. So much for keeping calm, Jax.

"Oh, so you are alive." It's a statement without question. "Interesting, considering three days have passed, and you have yet to send any details to me on this assignment," a sharp voice gripes.

"I . . . uh . . ." Fuck. "Syl, look I'm sorry."

"Don't use nicknames on me, Jax," I can hear an audible sigh and imagine the harsh rubbing of fingers on her forehead. "I know a lot is riding on this annual review and you're more than capable of succeeding, but please don't make me regret this opportunity I'm giving you. A lot is riding on this, on you and me," I pinch the bridge of my nose.

"Sylvia, I promise you won't regret this, but giving me only three days to come up with a world-changing story right before my annual review? It's not like I have a list of absurd ideas waiting to use when The Globe needs a fresh idea. Give me an extension―another week or so—and I'll have something by then. Please? I'll buy you coffee every day next week."

Silence. I know full well I don't have the standing to ask such a thing, especially given my lack of seniority, but I refuse to let pressure ruin the prospects of something great.

"One day is the best I can give you and make it TWO weeks of coffee. I'll talk to the board and convince them you are finalizing the project so that you can present it on Friday. I can't give you any more time than that. I'm sorry, Jax." My boss, Sylvia, is a force not to be reckoned with. Her figure is slim and petite, but her bold eyes and stern look could make anyone wither.

"Thank you," I say finally, ending the conversation. Clicking off the screen, I slump back in my chair.

A knock on my door interrupts my thoughts. "Come in," I say and in strides my best friend, Deice. At six-four, he stands about one inch taller than me. He has bright blue eyes and dark brown skin, and on top of being brilliant, he's charismatic and charming; he also happens to work with me, a couple of floors up, unlucky me.

I stand and hug him, slapping his back. "Perfect timing. Sasha was just in here looking for you. Something about rescheduling a date?"

Deice stops and crouches down as he looks all around him. "You're joking."

"Nope."

"Jax," Deice says sternly.

"Yeah, I'm lying. Sasha's not here. You should have seen your face though. Worth it to make you think your ex was looking for you. Not sure that joke will ever get old."

"Very funny. Remind me why you didn't pursue a career in comedy again?"

"My jokes were too funny."

"Ah, yes. Jax Cooper, a man too funny for the common person."

"I am a man of the people."

"Tell me, can one be matched with their ego during the matching ceremony? I sure hope the computer program leaves that as an option for you."