RC.

Ch1 .......... j

This morning I get to work humming. I take my earphones off in front of Matt's amused look.

T:"Hi, Matt!"

Matt:"You seem very jolly today. Would it have something to do with Mark?"

I put my earphones away silently staring at Matt. What's he on about...?

T:"Mark?"

Matt:"Yeah. He came this morning. He was looking for you."

T:"Really?"

Matt:"Yes, he said it was urgent and that you had to go to your manager's office straightaway."

(I'm gonna get fired!)

My good mood quickly fades! There you go! Mr. Carter didn't appreciate how I acted and so, for sure, he wants to fire me!!

Matt:"Don't look so glum! I'm sure it's just to thank you for "services rendered"..."

He pronounces this last word with a cheeky smile on his face. I scowl at him.

T:"Nonsense! Get ready to see me packing!"

Matt rolls his eyes.

Gabriel:"Tayla?"

I turn around almost jumping in surprise. I discover my manager standing in our doorway.

T:"Gabriel! Hi!"

I don't dare ask him what's wrong. If I open my mouth, he'll sense my worry.

Gabriel:"If you would like to follow me into my office..."

To give myself a little composure I grab my notebook but Gabriel stops me.

Gabriel:"You won't need to take any notes."

I stifle an "Oh" and straighten up clumsily.

I don't like it... I don't like it at all!

          
                           ◇ ◇ ◇

As we get to Gabriel's office, he closes the door behind me. He gently puts his hand on my back inviting me to take a seat.

Gabriel:"Take a seat. Mark will be here any moment."

I sit down, feeling uneasy. I look through the glass bay windows at the New York buildings around.

Gabriel:"You're gonna be missed..."

(What?!)

Gabriel fixes his azure coloured eyes into mine twisting his signet ring around his finger.

T:"What?! Am I fired?!"

It's too much for me, I can't help but ask!

Gabriel smiles.

Gabriel:"Absolutely not. Sorry, I didn't express myself very well... Mark will explain."

Gabriel:"It's just that things won't be the same here without you..."

T:"But what are you..."

Suddenly someone knocks at the door. Mark comes in. He's finishing a call.