Page 66 of My Boss

A low murmur is my only an answer. He looks away.

Something is not right.

“Jan, why does this report have to be finished today?”

He gives me a hard stare.

“It doesn’t have to be.”

I gape my mouth. Doesn’t have to be? Shit.

“Okay, Jan, that’s it. Spill it. I want you to answer some questions for me.”

“I don’t like such games.”

“This will not be a game, but a mature conversation between two adults. Therefore, you will either participate or I will continue to consider you a boor.”

Jan’s eyes drill hard into me. In the twilight, they are the color of the sea abyss.

“So ask.”

Well, now we’re talking. Where would I start so that I don’t mess around, but get an answer to my most pressing question?

“What are you doing at work on Christmas Eve?”

“I am working.”

“Sure. But why are you working when all the other people are getting ready for Christmas and spending this time with loved ones?”

“I have nothing to look forward to. My relatives are far away.”

“Clarify.”

“My father is in Mallorca with his mistress. And my sister, who is twenty years younger, is away with her boyfriend and friends.”

“You mentioned the father, but what about the mother?”

“She died twelve years ago.”

Damn! I probably crossed the line with that one.

“I’m sorry.”

“My turn.” He crosses his outstretched legs at the ankles. “What are you doing at work on Christmas Eve?” he repeats my question, and I involuntarily smile.

“I was the one who was supposed to ask questions.”

“Answer.”

“I am working.”

“Why are you working when all other people are getting ready for Christmas and spending this time with loved ones?”

I snort.

“You’re copying my questions. Can’t you come up with your own?”

“Answer. Why are you working today?”

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