Today’s the day we’ve all been waiting for. The office is thick with a tense anticipation, though no one will admit it. I glance over at Marie. She’s tapping away at her keyboard, her face concentrated and confident. That’s Marie for you. Always confident. Always self-assured. But every once in a while I see her risk a quick glance towards Alex’s office, her eyes flitting from screen to door and back again. And that’s enough for me. I know she’s as tense as everybody else.
Most people expect Marie to get the job. She’s the company’s best Account Manager if sales are anything to go by. Determined and aggressive she’s a real go-getter. She’ll do anything to land a contract. Of course, it is all an act, an affectation she’s honed over years of laughing, giggling, smiling and shagging her way to where she is now.
No one really likes her. Especially not me. She’s made my life hell ever since I’ve started. She’s the only one though. I get on really well with everyone else and I’ve really started to deliver the goods. Even Alex has complimented my output on more than one occasion.
With Alex moving on, Marie is the one everyone expects to be the next Account Director.
Suddenly the door opens and Alex emerges with Mr Rathbone, the company’s Chief Executive. The office falls silent. Marie glances over at me, contempt and arrogance holding her make-up in place.
“If I can have everyone’s attention for a moment,” announces Alex, lighthousing his all encompassing smile. “Mr Rathbone has an announcement to make regarding the new Account Director’s position.”
Mr Rathbone clears his throat and steps forward. “It’s been a difficult decision. There were so many well qualified applicants.” He looks around the office, his gaze hovering over me momentarily. I hold my breath. “But we can only appoint one Account Director. And I am delighted to say…”
I look at Marie. She’s straightening her skirt and a smile is starting to spread across her face.
“…that the person we’ve chosen will lead us forward from the excellent position Alex leaves us in. And that person is…”
Again he holds for dramatic effect. Hurry up for Christ’s sake, I think, I’ve got money to make and this hardly the bloody Oscars!
“…Marie Kingsella.”
Mr Rathbone begins clapping and begrudgingly everybody else joins in. Marie jumps up, the biggest fake smile cracking her liberally applied foundation. “Thank you so much, Mr Rathbone, I am truly flattered and humbled.”
At that moment I would love to take the Tuna Baguette in my hand and shove it in her gob. I’m not jealous, honest. I just dislike her, that’s all. What? You thought I was going to get the job? You thought that was the twist? Don’t be silly! I’m just the sandwich delivery lady. I’m sorry. But I make great baps if that helps?
“Who ordered the tuna baguette?” I ask as the clapping dies down.
Oh that’s brilliant – yep, you’ve really got your readers sussed. Now pass me a cheese and tomato and ham baguette, please!
nicely done.. i do so enjoy a good twist… even if it does happen to smell of tuna…..
Damn you Lehane! I didn’t care if she got the job or not; just don’t give it to the awful Marie. Okay so I was all in.
Love this line. “Marie glances over at me, contempt and arrogance holding her make-up in place.”