Page 2 of Samson

“That’s too bad. They shouldn’t keep a woman like you chained to the desk.”

“Oh, it’s okay. I don’t mind. It’s my job.”

It wouldn’t be for long. Once he was through here, this place would be shut down.

“You really don’t mind?” He looked around the room. “Are you related to the owner? You’re doing this as a favor, right?”

She laughed. “No. It’s just a job.”

“Then they must pay you well.”

“Receptionists don’t general get paid very well.”

“I hate to see such a lovely woman stuck in a drab work environment. Do me a favor. Tonight, when you go home, look for a different job. There’s better stuff out there for you. If I had a position in my business, I’d hire you.”

“You don’t even know me, but that’s nice of you to say.”

“I’m a nice guy.”

“Let me see about that tour. I may be able to organize someone for you, but I’ll have to see if one of the supervisors is free. And he’ll have to approve it.”

“Whatever the outcome, I appreciate the effort.”

“I’ll need to tell them the purpose of your visit.”

“Of course. I own a line of delicatessens here in Virginia, and I need a new source for my beef.”

“Oh, wonderful. I know the bosses are always on the lookout for new opportunities. I’m sure they would be happy to show you around, but there’s only one problem.”

“What’s that?”

“If I get another job, you won’t see me here next time you come in.”

“That would be unfortunate, but once the papers are signed, I won’t be coming back unless there’s a problem. I’d hate to think of you stuck in here every time I process an order. That would be depressing.”

“In that case, if you don’t mind waiting, I’ll make the call.”

“Thank you.”

He kept his eyes on her while she was on the phone, but her straight back and shallow breathing made it clear she sensed his gaze. When she began stuttering to whoever was on the line, he turned. There was such a thing as being too distracting.

He wandered over to a small waiting area and looked at the various awards placed haphazardly on the wall like an abandoned community notice board. He leaned closer, making note of the ten-year-old dates on them. No wonder the companyhad to bring in other streams of business. Everything about this place said it was washed up. It was like they weren’t even trying anymore.

He ran a hand down his suit jacket. As long as they didn’t question what could possibly make a businessman like him interested in working with a company like this, he’d be good.

“Andy will be out in ten minutes,” Paula said. “If you’d like, you can have a seat.”

“Thank you, I will.”

He moved to an old chair near the window. When he sat, the cracked vinyl poked him through his pants. He considered moving to the couch, but the stain on it looked fresh.

After a minute of Paula trying not to look at him, he said, “I don’t suppose I could get a cup of coffee while I wait?”

“I’d be happy to.” She smiled, then winced. “But it’s not very good.”

“That’s okay. I don’t mind.”

“You sure?”

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