Undecided Man | A Mark Lindsay Story

Chapter Two: Sealing the Deal

A/N: I know the title kinda sucks, but that's okay, the chapter makes up for it. Anyway, above is a song that inspired me a bit in the writing process. I also apologize for any minor errors beforehand.

Mark walked confidently through the streets of the overly-busy state of New York. At the very least, he knew he had to confront Paul civilly. He had no intention of creating an argument or a long-lasting strain on the professional relationship he had with Paul, he simply wanted to make his business with the older man fair.

Rather than try to create a long-lasting tension in his professional relationship with Paul, he wanted to make sure that his dealings with him were fair.

Mark didn't live too far from Paul; it took just a few minutes to get to the man's fairly glamorous property. Despite his best intentions, Mark found himself underprepared for everything that would come his way. He needed to talk to someone he could trust, and who at the very least was not drunk.

Looking around for a moment, he pondered his next step. Eyes were on him, mostly those of young ladies who appeared to fancy him. No, he couldn't possibly talk to them. It would be hard for him to reveal his dilemma to them, along with a good deal of little secrets, as he didn't know any of them personally.

Suddenly, he knew the perfect place to go without attracting attention. And it was the perfect spot to find a reliable person to discuss his problems with! Just a few blocks away from the apartment complex he lived in was a nice little deli/submarine sandwich shop called Valley's Deli & Subs. Quite the creative name, huh? It made Mark roll his eyes. Well, it did on a bad day.

The shop was owned by the father of his friend, Jim Valley. Having not spoken in a while, it was only right to stop by the restaurant. He could grab a bite while he was there, which didn't seem so bad. It was always a pleasure to speak to Jim; or Harpo, as he was popularly known.

Harpo was a nice guy who smiled almost always, and willingly as well. Not that Mark had a problem with it. He just thought the man was too happy and friendly for his own good. He was only bothered by the fact that he knew Jim through Paul, by all people.

To make matters worse, Paul was well-liked by his friends. They always hoped to achieve their musical dreams, just as Mark had, but never had the chance to catch the older man's attention. Too bad the boys chose drug dealing over pursuing their dreams , Mark thought to himself. Sure, it was an easy solution to their financial troubles, but not a good one at all.

Before he knew it, Mark found himself in front of the sandwich shop. Through the glass, he spotted his friend standing at the front counter. It appeared that it was Jim's turn to manage the cash register and take orders, something he knew the man wouldn't protest. However, oddly enough, Harpo didn't have a smile on his face. He looked bored . Bothered, even.

Mark pulled open the front door and was greeted by the sweet jingle of the bells hanging above the door frame. Although the store's floor gleamed brightly and its air was cool, not one of the employees appeared happy or enthusiastic.

"Mark?" the man spoke up, confusion evident in his tone, "What are doing here so early?"

Although Mark wondered about the same thing, he knew the answer.

"I just wanted to talk to you for a bit," Mark replied smoothly, taking off the pair of glasses he forgot he had on, "I almost thought you didn't recognize me."

"Oh, I've just never seen you with glasses on," Harpo laughed, adjusting the hat on his head, "You always wear contact lenses, but I knew it was you."

"Yeah," Mark let out a nervous chuckle, adding, "Anyway, uh , do you serve breakfast here?"