The Amazing Tales of Groomigan

Chapter 6

      After the last lunch had ended, I found it more difficult to focus on my work than it was before lunch.

      Why did he have to be at lunch?! This isn't fair. Is Officer Goldak aware that he is a distraction to my work? I sighed. No, probably not. Still! Why does he insist on following me around, like some lost puppy? I understand that it's his first day, but there are other faculty members. Damn man and his damned eyes. 

      "Mr. Haar?"

       Two knocks hit the open door. I looked towards the source. Oh, thank god. It's not Goldak. "What is it?" I asked Mr. Anderson. He strolled into my office, and stood in front of my desk. He gave me a warm smile, as if he was happy about something.

       "Okay, so a group of the faulty members are getting together after work today to welcome Officer Goldak. I was wondering if you can make it?" He asked. He paused, gauging my reaction. I made sure to show no interest in his invitation. "We're going to head to Wayward bar."

       Yes, because going drinking with the hot- i mean, the new guy is such a great idea. I think I'm good. I have enough problems as it is.

      "No thanks." I told him. I jotted something down on the paper in front of me. "I'm a light-weight."

      "That's why I'm going to be the driver! And it's Friday so you don't have to worry about any work tomorrow. There's only five of us, so we're going to carpool." He told me. It was obvious that he wanted me to go with them, but he was just making the situation worse for me. I don't want to be cramped into the same car as Grooms. "So if you get drunk, we can take you home. No worries!"

     "How do I know that you won't get drunk?" I protested. I know it's a cheap shot, but it's the only excuse I can find to not go with them.

       "I can't drink alcohol. Doctor says I have a weak liver." Mr. Anderson chuckled, as if this was old news. 

     Dammit. I have no defense against that. Now, I don't have a reason not to go. Fuck.

     "Alright. Where are you picking me up, and what time?" I sighed, giving into Mr. Anderson's absurd request. His face lit up with joy, as he clapped his hands together. I can feel the regret already.

     "Excellent! Then it's settled. I'll pick you up at 8 at your house!" Mr. Anderson cheered. He gave me a small wave, as he left my office. I placed my face into my hands, with an exhausted groan.

      What. Have. I. Done?!..