We join our protagonist, one Frank Johnson, on a day much like any other. The sun is in the sky, the birds are chirping and coffee is brewing in the corner kitchenette of the office. Unlike his typical routine, however, Frank is locked in a battle; a battle he is not sure he can win.
The office is quiet and still, it is yet early in the day, scant minutes past ten in the morning. His coworkers go quietly about their business, barely cognizant of their own duties, much less the drastic struggle with which Frank is wrestling this fateful morning. Wrapped up in their own little worlds, unaware of the stern consequences that could arise should Frank falter in the mighty task before him.
Sweat drips down his brow, yet he feels a sudden chill as he feels the goosebumps tingle upon his arms. He breathes deeply, struggling with what effort he can muster to compel him toward his goal of conquering his ever increasingly powerful foe.
As he fights seeming inevitability, he thinks back on how he could have prevented this. He has no one to blame but himself for the position he finds himself in this morning. After all, everything in life is a choice and was it not his own series of choices that led him down this road? Still silent, the morning calm of the office is unimpeded by Frank's anonymous efforts.
Alas, he feels his convictions waver. He senses his fortitude begin to give. His muscles contort as he feels all hope leave him with a sudden rush of almost uncomfortable warmth and hopelessness.
As the consequence of his failure permeates the air, the silence of the office is broken. All know now of the valiant battle Frank has fought and quite clearly lost. Though none know precisely who fought this battle, it will drastically impair all those who encounter the result.
As the faces of those surrounding the epicenter that is Frank's cubicle contort almost in unison, one oblivious onlooker stands and queries:
"Alright, who cut one?"
Frank sank deep into his chair in a vain attempt to avoid notice and retain his anonymity.
The End!!!
Dedicated to Taylor, for providing me inspiration for this story.
I thought I could love you.
I was looking forwards to telling you how beautiful you are.
In more than just the regular way,
in a way most people don't see.
I still want to tell you but I probably won't have a good opportunity to do so.
I'm sure it would have made you happy but clearly it'll have to wait.