Venom: Beautiful Killers. Part 17.
#17 of Venom: Beautiful Killers
Venom: Beautiful Killers. Part 17
"'A' as in none."
Mariana sits alone in the room where her fate has been sealed. Half of her torn file lay on the table in front of her. The other half is on the floor by her feet. No longer a member of the company in any capacity, and with her friend not coming back, Venom's first two females are now history. The digital clock on the wall has struck nine. Her superiors would be busy at work now, tending to borrowers. The hitmen would also be gone by now. She would be all alone with not much to do.
She sits by the conference table with her face in her hands, a position she has held for the last five minutes. She has stopped crying and is starting to calm down. There is no sign of the carefree, bubbly personality that arrived in the building earlier this morning. The Maltese is serious; she puts her hands down, revealing a look more powerful than the word "angry" could define. She looks determined to do something, even if it is unclear what the something is.
The door behind her opens and Ted steps back in. "Forgot my briefcase," he says gruffly. He sneaks behind the angry canine and quickly grabs what he is after. "Most of the boys have left, but a few are coming to see you."
She wipes her eyes and nods. "Don't worry about me. I'm sure I'll be well taken care of."
"I'm sure you will be." He starts moving to the door. "Hey, what's the deal with you and Camille? St. Croix has told me there was something going on between you two."
Mariana chuckles. "Don't bother. It's too long a story. Suffice it to say that she hates Zesty's guts, so she doesn't think much of me either." She turns to look at him. "She still here?"
"I interrupted the meeting to tell them you were leaving. She fled as soon as she heard your name. It was like she was leaving the scene of a crime."
"Yeah, that sounds like Camille."
"It's not good that I didn't know about this sooner. I don't tolerate fights among the workers, especially if it could get in the way of their work."
The Maltese shrugs. "What can I say? We're just a small group of jealous females surrounded by a bunch of mostly brain-addled guys. We fight each other more often than you know. You're not a woman. What good would it do to tell you about it? There's nothing you could do." She turns away from him. "I've been wanting to tell Mrs. Cross about my problems with Camille, but she's not involved in the killing part of the business. "
"So you'll just let it fester like that? What if it grows into something big?"
"Well, since you've just accepted my resignation, I don't think it'll be a problem."
Ted sighs and leaves. The look of consternation on his face says that he cannot wait for the day to end. Mariana sighs too, confused and frustrated. She puts her head in her hands again. This time, she is not crying. Instead, her face exhibits something approaching resolve. Her hands slide off her face and clench themselves on the table. Her mouth tightens and her eyes open wide. Her tail wags as if she just thought of something good, or at least of something important. She stands and moves her chair aside. It looks like she is ready to leave.
Just then, the door opens. Inverness steps through cautiously. He politely clears his throat, causing her to turn around. "Hi. You alone?" he asks.
"About as alone as I can be." She smiles widely. "So, what's up?"
"What happened?"
"Ted's made it official. I'm not--"
"Is that your file?" He points to the half of the folder that is by her feet.
"What's left of it."
The terrier's already somber face now looks even more distressed. "So, what are you gonna do now?"
"Funny you should ask, because I just decided. I'm going to leave and go back home. I'm going to see my friend, and feel her belly. She's about ten weeks along now." She chuckles.
"Zesty's pregnant?"
Mariana quickly covers her mouth, then drops her hands in disgust. "Damn. She told me not to tell anyone who wasn't there. Now I've blown it."
Inverness walks to her until they are very close to each other. "How did she get pregnant?"
Her eyes narrow. "Um...she had sex."
"You know what I mean. How could she get pregnant? She wasn't seeing anyone. I've even tried to ask her out a few times, with no success. Who's the father?"
"It doesn't matter, okay? Don't worry about it."
"You quit because she's pregnant?"
She is starting to get angry. "I quit because I'm loyal, okay? This is not quitting under protest. This is much more than that. I quit because she needs me. She's got money to buy what she needs for the next seven months. She just doesn't know what to buy. She doesn't know how to handle money. She doesn't know...kids. This situation will overwhelm her, but I have seven siblings. I can teach her some things. "
"You don't have to leave."
"If I stay here, she'll be alone. She won't know what to do. That much was clear the day she heard she was pregnant. She looked like a kid in a maze." She turns away from him. "Come to think of it, even if I did come to work, my mind wouldn't be on my marks. It would be on her."
Inverness steps even closer. His dress shoes touch her sneakers. "But you can't leave."
"Why do you even care?"
He scratches his head shyly. "Well...'cuz I like ya."
She sighs and stretches her left hand to his face. She strokes his right cheek gently. "I like you too, but what you're thinking of can't happen now." Her hand comes down before he gets used to the pleasurable feeling.
"It's not fair. The day you finally say yes to a date with me is the day you quit."
"It had to happen."
"I disagree."
She kisses his forehead. "I'm sorry." She backs away and sits back down on her chair. "If it makes you feel any better, I was really looking forward to going out with you."
Inverness stays still and looks at her. He blinks a few times in disbelief, devastated and distant. Mariana is only about an inch taller than he is, but right now, he looks so much smaller. He looks like a grade schooler saying goodbye to his favorite teacher. His regal and boisterous self is just not there.
"It's past nine. Don't you have to work?"
He swallows. "I don't feel like it."
"Oh. I hope it's not because of me."
"I haven't given up."
"What's that?"
"I haven't given up on ya. I was really honored when I asked you and you said yes. I feel I have to keep trying. What are you doing this evening?"
Mariana scoffs in disbelief. "Come on, man. You're trying too hard. You don't have to do anything. I don't have any plans tonight, but it's not going to work anyway. I don't feel like having company."
"Well...what are you doing in the next couple of minutes?" He approaches her quickly, desperate to avoid rejection. "Let me get you something. Please...just tell me what you want, and I'll get it for you."
The Maltese laughs. It is a light, sweet laugh that makes the terrier's eyes light up. Still in disbelief, she wipes her brow. "Okay. You want to get me something? Get me a cup of coffee."
He nods emphatically. "Plenty of that in the cafeteria. I'll be right back."
"No. Not that instant shit. Real coffee--the kind that is actually made. There's none here, but you can buy some down the street. Get me the largest they have."
Inverness smiles and gathers himself for the trip. "I'll be back in two shakes. Then we'll have a real, honest talk."
"You won't change my mind."
"We'll see." He quickly opens the door and runs into someone about to enter. "Oh. Sorry there, big man. I'll see you later." He runs out of the room and Shiloh comes in. He looks behind him and laughs.
Mariana is hesitant; she does not feel like talking anymore. Still, she beckons the wolf to advance. "Good morning."
"No it isn't. Not really." He stands over her and folds his arms. He looks uneasy. "Inverness left in a hurry. Where's he going?"
"To get coffee. I sent him to get me some at the bistro next door. But I really wanted to get him out of my hair."
"Why are you leaving?"
She chuckles. "Aw. You're gonna miss me? That's really sweet."
"I'm serious. What happened?"
"Hey, you don't have to worry. Nothing bad's gonna happen just because I'm not there."
"Look, I care about this place...." He hangs his arms at his sides, trying not to seem combative. Then he grabs the nearest empty chair and sits in front of her. "I don't know much about the lending part of the business, but I make sure that both businesses work seamlessly in the same building. If something in here made you quit, I need to know what it is so it can be dealt with. I don't want it to cause any negative effects."
Her smile disappears. "Well you don't have to worry about anything bad happening, because we won't be here anymore."
"Who's 'we?'"
She sighs and shakes her head. "Might as well tell you. I've already told Inverness. I was supposed to keep this a secret from those who didn't know." She turns to him and folds her arms. "Just listen and don't interrupt. A couple of months ago, Zesty got pregnant. It was unintended and unplanned. One day when she came to work, she took me aside during the meeting and told me she felt bad...she had a suspicion that really bothered her. She decided to see a doctor and told me to come with her. Being the friend that I was, I went. When the doctor told us she was pregnant, I was surprised. She was completely distraught."
"Wow." He shows a slight smile. "That's nice. Congratulations are in order."
"No, it isn't nice. She got fired as a result. Ted unceremoniously had her axed because she was pregnant. It came out of left field, just like the pregnancy itself." She watches for a reaction.
Shiloh stops smiling and leans in closer. "Well, that can't be right. It's not like Ted to act impulsively. There must be some mistake."
"Damn right. Zesty has worked under duress. She's worked sick; she's worked under stress; she's even worked with a broken arm. She is fully capable of doing this job. He didn't need to send her away."
"Well, I agree. She can work here in other capacities. She could have helped the executives with balancing budgets or even helped laminate the marks' pictures. She didn't need to leave." He scratches his chin in deep thought. "I think Ted's thinking was wrong. I'll talk to him."
Mariana leans back and crosses her legs, completely relaxing in the velvet seat. "You're sweet, but that's not enough. She told me she's not returning unless Ted changes his mind about her and acknowledges her abilities. Unless that happens, rehiring her would be a shallow gesture."
The wolf shrugs. "I don't get it. Doesn't she want to come back to work?"
"She wants to feel appreciated by the bosses, Shiloh. The way she was fired was embarrassing. Pretty much all the boys were watching. I think a couple of words from Ted, in front of all the workers, telling her that he values her talents is something she deserves. Don't you think so?" She watches as Shiloh nods. "Besides, she made a couple of kills since she got the news. She didn't miss a beat. She can work just as well as anyone--"
"Wait! Stop!" Shiloh stands. "She was working while she was pregnant?"
"Of course she was. I told you she was good, didn't I?"
"She can't do that." He stammers, searching for a lost thought. Confused, he repeats, "She can't do that!"
Mariana shakes her head. "She can and she has. What's the matter with you?"
"Is she an idiot?!"
"Don't call her that." She stands quickly. "There's nothing wrong with what she did. I helped her and made sure she was safe."
"You can't hunt while pregnant. You can't kill while pregnant either! Didn't she realize what danger she could have caused?!"
"What danger? What are you talking about?"
"What if a mark had killed her while defending himself? What if he killed her and left her at the scene? Zesty's body would be found by police and taken to the morgue. The coroner would discover she was pregnant, take the baby out of her belly, and determine the breed of the kid! The police would find the father in days, especially if the kid's a mixed breed! They would question him, and any answers he gave could lead them to this building!"
"Don't be an idiot. At six weeks, the baby would still look like a fetus. The police wouldn't be able to tell what breed--"
"DNA, dumbass! The police would still know!"
"Don't yell at me! Zesty and the baby were safe the entire time. She's too good a tracker and hunter to get caught or killed. When she's working, only the marks are in danger. Not her."
Shiloh nods, getting a clear picture of what has happened and what needs to happen. "I can see now why Ted fired her. He made the right decision."
Mariana gasps. "I don't believe this. I thought you were on my side!"
"That's before you told me what really happened. I didn't think Zesty was stupid as well as skillful."
"I told you not to call her those things!" Her hands ball up and her breath races in and out of her clenched teeth.
Shiloh is not intimidated in the least. "Sorry, girl. I side with Ted. By letting your friend go, he was watching out for us and looking after the business. She was only looking out for herself."
"You take that back. That's not true!"
"Hey, I don't work sick. If I miss a mark, there will be others. There always is."
"It only makes you weaker than Zesty, not smarter."
"The rules are made perfectly clear the first time you get here. You don't do anything that can get you discovered. You don't do anything that can expose us. We've had an outsider infiltrate this place some time ago; he threatened us with legal action and almost put us in danger. I won't let us be compromised like that again." He hesitates a bit, but moves close enough to her that their toes touch. "I like Zesty too, but she's gone. If I were the head honcho, I'd do exactly what Ted did. I'd fire her on the spot." He watches with concern as Mariana again turns her back to him. "Your job, on the other hand, should be safe. If you want it, you can get it back. I'd support that. I don't see why you have to leave if you didn't do anything wrong."
"Like I said already, she was fired in front of the workers--workers I thought were her friends. They didn't defend her when Simon was berating her. Just like that, they learned she was pregnant and watched as she was virtually kicked out of the lobby. It wasn't fair."
"You can't blame them. Those boys have never encountered something like that before. What did you expect them to do?"
The Maltese nods. "You see that? That's why I'm leaving. There's no understanding, no empathy, no sympathy. The day she left, I realized that nobody really cared for her."
"That's bullshit. Zesty's worked together with them for over two years. She traded marks with them, she's given them tips, and she's even had beers with them at The Shark Pit. They took a liking to her just as much as I had."
"I don't believe that anymore. I now think that all that attention they gave her was just an attempt to get laid!" Furious, she stands up, trying to get as far away from him as possible. "Inverness is trying to get into my drawers too. He's just being very subtle about it."
"Now who's being unfair?"
She walks to the other end of the table. "You know, I feel sorry for the girls-Mieri, Pamila, and even Camille, even though she hates me. I feel sorry for them all. They're going to be crowded out when they try to get marks. If they try to trade marks, they'll be rejected. The boys will treat them like dirt. If anything, Zesty's firing will remind them how much stronger they are. They're gonna take advantage of that, and the executives will do nothing to help." She takes a breath. "I also feel for your girlfriend. She may be the same size as you, but she's weak compared to the rest of the workplace. She doesn't know what she's getting into."
"Don't you dare!" The angry wolf quickly rushes around the table toward her. It looks like he is about to attack her. As if to emphasize weakness, Mariana lowers her head and puts her hands behind her back. It makes Shiloh stop himself. He is now the angriest he has ever been today.
Still looking down, she clears her throat. "Well, go ahead, big guy. Defend her honor. Kick my ass." She stands there for a few seconds, prepared for something nasty to happen to her. She hears his tense breathing, but nothing else is happening. "You're now experiencing what it feels like to stand up for someone you care about. I feel the same way about Zesty. If only everyone else did...." She wipes her left cheek.
Shiloh sits next to her and puts his hands on the table, trying to calm down. "You know, the one thing I love about Winter is also a bit of a problem, especially around here. She's a bit too clingy. It's like she has separation anxiety. She doesn't like it when I leave the house. She hates it when I'm gone for long periods of time. About a year ago, she asked me what I do for a living. I wouldn't tell her, of course, but she kept on asking and prodding. I waited a long time before I told her the truth and told her not to tell anybody." He chuckles, causing Mariana to look at him. "I was surprised as hell when she told me she wanted to do what I do."
"Kinda caught you off guard, huh?"
"I thought about the implications and I said no, a lot. When I finally gave in, I spent three months teaching her how this place works, what to expect, and how to be responsible. I taught her over and over again how not to get caught. I taught her how to protect herself from the dangers of hunting marks. The other hitmen can be real assholes, so I taught her to protect herself from them as well. Those lessons have paid off. She can take care of herself easily, and tomorrow, she'll be back from her first hunt, which will undoubtedly be a success."
"And what about the next hunt? And the one after that?"
"Winter is different. She will not be like the other girls. She'll be tough and persistent. If anyone gets in her way, she'll step on 'em."
Mariana shakes her head in disbelief. "If you say so."
"Besides, those guys respect me too much to do anything to her. The other girls, sure, but not her."
"That's not respect they're showing you. It's fear. They're afraid of you, and they will hate her for it."
An angry Shiloh buries his claws into the table. "You're not gonna get far talking to me that way."
"Whatever. I don't work here anymore. You were kind of my last hope. The bosses listen to you. You're the most authoritative worker here. You're the only one who can get Zesty reinstated. I was hoping you could see things my way."
"Sorry, I don't." He stretches his arms over his head. A loud yawn emerges from his mouth, surprising the Maltese. He slowly stands and interlocks his fingers, cracking his knuckles.
She looks at the ceiling. "You're tired. I'm tired too. We're getting nowhere."
"So, let's call it a draw." He softens his posture and creeps toward her, putting his hands on her shoulders. "Don't get me wrong, okay? I'm sad you're leaving. I was there when Zesty first brought you in. I tried to make the transition easy for you."
She turns and hugs him, surprising herself just as much as she surprises the wolf. "I don't hate you, okay? I just...hate the idea of you. In a place dominated by guys, Zesty didn't really stand a chance. I don't see much hope for the other women." They release each other. She looks at Shiloh's sullen face and laughs quietly. "But I'm sure Winter will be fine. Where is she now?"
"Chino Hills."
"Hmm. I know people there."
The door suddenly opens. Robert Crevecoeur enters the room, adjusting the cufflinks on his suit. "Am I interrupting anything?" He watches as the anthros back away from one another. "I just came from the cafeteria. There's a small group of guys milling around there. I assume they're waiting to see you."
Mariana scoffs. "I don't really want to see them."
Shiloh makes his way out of the room. "I'm going to call Winter and make sure she's all right." He waves and closes the door behind him.
The executive wastes no time. "I talked to Ted a few minutes ago. He told me why you were leaving. He told me everything. I wasn't there when it happened. I'm so sorry."
She shakes her head. "Sure, you're sorry. Tell me the truth. You would have fired Zesty too, wouldn't you?"
Disappointed, he slowly sits on the nearest chair. "Yeah, I would have. But I would have done it myself, and in private. I wouldn't have sent Simon to do it."
"Well, there's nothing that can be done about it now." Suddenly, she runs around the table until she is right in front of him. "Listen, I need to tell you something important. You know I like you. I prefer you to the other executives. I prefer your company even to Mrs. Cross. That's why I'm telling you instead of her. You're the most open-minded, so I know you'll listen."
"Okay. I'm here. What's wrong?"
She closes her eyes, clearly dreading what she is about to say. "I think the girls are in trouble...."
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Inverness has outdone himself. He returned from the trip that Mariana sent him on bringing back more than coffee. He entered through the cafeteria, carrying two large, white boxes. He had apparently gone to a doughnut shop. He entered the conference room and surprised Mariana with the gifts. She could only look on in disbelief as the terrier presented their contents. Speechless, she inspected the Danishes, crullers, bear claws, apple fritters, chocolate-covered strawberries, and doughnuts of many kinds. Of course, he did not forget the coffee.
As they ate, they talked. It was all Inverness was hoping for, since it was what led to her agreeing to a date with him weeks ago. He tries patiently and delicately to ask her out again. It does not work, but she has since softened her attitude towards him. He told her more about himself and she soaked up every word. The chat was informative and understanding.
Minutes later, Baua entered, more enticed with the food than with Mariana's presence. A couple of other males followed him in. As tired as she was, Mariana talked with all of them. None of them changed her mind. At the same time, none of them saw a problem with the decision to let Zesty go. Through it all, she was able to talk without being confrontational.
Astoundingly, the Maltese stayed in the building throughout the day, leaving only once. She stepped out around noon, most probably to get lunch, and then returned an hour later. She watched television, lifted some weights, used some of the exercise equipment, and talked to anyone who came in through the back door. Shiloh made multiple visits so they could heal the verbal wounds they inflicted on each other earlier in the day. It was an uncomfortable, but calming experience for both of them.
Shiloh's latest visit has now lasted half an hour. The time has just passed six p.m. Crevecoeur shoos him and Mariana out of the conference room so he can hand out payments to any workers who show up. The wolf and the Maltese decide to head to the cafeteria. On the way there, the VIVIAN CROSS door opens. Ted steps out, tense and eager to leave. He brushes past Shiloh without acknowledging his goodbye. Mariana looks at him stoically. The executive does not look back.
Then the chief steps out, closing the door behind her. She is wearing a red dress with floral print and is carrying an expensive-looking handbag. It looks like she is going to a party. Upon seeing Mariana, she stops in her tracks. Shiloh watches uncomfortably as the women stare each other down. The dog opens her mouth to say something, but only stutters. Pensively, she looks at her feet.
Winning another staring contest, Mrs. Cross shrugs and waves to Shiloh before disappearing through the hallway. The wolf chuckles in response. "That was weird. When she's silent, you know something bad has happened. She didn't look mad, but she looks like she knows." He makes his way to the cafeteria, expecting Mariana to follow him. Instead, she simply stands there, watching the chief say goodbye to the workers remaining in the lobby. Shiloh returns and puts a hand on her shoulder. "You're shaking. What's wrong?"
Her breath is also shaky. "Nothing. It's just...I think I hate her." She turns to the wolf and takes his hand off her left shoulder. "Excuse me. I'm gonna be sick." She walks down the hallway and turns to the left, into the ladies' restroom.
The wolf follows her as far as the restroom door. "If you need something, let me know." Once the door closes, he enters the men's restroom next door. There he sees the janitor, Tobias, who has just finished mopping the floor. The ground glistens under their feet. Shiloh clears his throat. "Hello. Um...you're here early. Don't you usually begin at the lobby?"
Tobias adjusts his glasses. "I can't. There's a bunch of workers standing around the waiting room. I can't vacuum. What's going on? Why haven't they left yet?"
He hesitates, but approaches the young man. "Mariana's here. Those guys are staying 'cuz they want to talk to her one last--"
"Mariana's back?" A big smile suddenly shows on his face. "I didn't see her come in. Did she come back to work? Where is she?"
"No, she's not back. She came here to say goodbye. The boys are there to see her one last time." He pats Tobias on the head. "I'm sorry, son. I know how much you liked her." He leaves the human and turns to a urinal. Forlorn, Tobias enters one of the stalls.
As Shiloh relieves himself, St. Croix steps inside. He practically slides along the floor as he approaches the urinals. Shiloh laughs. "Hey, cousin. How are things?"
St. Croix stops by the sink to look at himself in the mirror. "I don't feel so good," he says as he removes his blue tie from his neck. "I'm getting tired of the clients."
"What's the matter?"
"I've been working behind the desk, as you know, my legs hurt, and I haven't been able to stretch since lunch. I also haven't been able to see Mariana, not even during lunch."
"Don't sweat it. She's staying here a little while longer. You'll get to talk to her then."
"That's not all. Ted came over to me during my lunch break. We talked about her the entire time. Ted wants me...." He shakes his head, prompting Shiloh to look his way. "He wants me to monitor her. He wants me to--"
"Oh yeah, I forgot about that." Shiloh flushes, then approaches the nearest sink. "You're gonna do reconnaissance. Fantastic."
The eerily similar wolves look at one another. Unlike his smiling counterpart, St. Croix exhales with dread. "Why am I gonna do this?"
Shiloh furrows his brow. "Don't you remember? This is Ted's failsafe system. It takes effect in case anyone leaves the group."
"Oh. I must have forgotten about that, or just blocked it out. Nobody's ever left before."
"Well, now two people have. Now, the plan is in full effect. Ted wants you to do it, so--"
"That's stalking! I can't do that."
"Not if you do it right. What's wrong with you?"
"Ted's told me that Hoeness is already monitoring Zesty. He's seen her a couple of times, and she's been a good girl. She's tending to the baby, she's taking care of herself, and she hasn't told anybody about what we do here. But I'm afraid he's bothering her."
"My friend, you know why we do this. Hoeness is only going to follow her until he is sure she won't be a problem. I'm convinced that she won't ever go to the police. Once Hoeness is convinced of that too, he'll stop monitoring her." Shiloh stops washing his hands and heads for the dryers near the door. "On the other hand, Mariana is different. She's spirited, carefree and hates authority. She might be a problem. You're gonna have to watch her carefully."
With absolute certainty, St. Croix shakes his head. "I won't do it. She's too much of a friend to me. I'm not going to trail her. That's wrong."
"It's necessary, and you agreed to it when Ted brought it up three years ago. You went along with the rest of us without any complaints."
"I've changed my mind!" He hangs the tie around his neck and starts to leave the restroom. "I'm going home. You know, sometimes I hate this business."
"You're not just a loan officer, remember? You're part of an elite team. This team's members look after one another. We make sure the team stays intact. If someone were to destroy all that, then all of this is lost. All of the money will be gone. Now, you know Mariana has killed. We've all killed. We all know the secrets of this place and what would happen if we were exposed." Satisfied that he's made St. Croix stop and pay attention, he walks closer to his friend. "I like Mariana, but I believe she hates enough people in here that she could still bring law enforcement down here to get even. You want to take that chance?"
"I just don't want--"
"Shh." Shiloh's ears rise to full attention. Whatever he heard has reminded him that they are not alone in the room. He clears his throat. "We'll talk later. Let's just go see her one last time."
The wolves leave. Seconds later, Tobias exits the stall, frightened of what he has just heard.
* * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * * *
Mariana feels much better now. After coming out of the restroom, she enters the lobby and stays to talk with the remaining workers there. St. Croix, Inverness, and Shiloh sit around the front desk, chatting and laughing with her. She is loose and playful, almost flirtatious. At half past seven, Paraná and Tivoli make an unexpected appearance. It looks like they have been having a good time; they are wearing casual clothing and she has her hands around his right arm. She looks a little drunk.
Shiloh smiles and approaches the ocelot, shaking both her hands. He is absolutely exuberant. "How've you been?"
"Great!" she answers. "I'm an apprentice."
He takes a glance at the jaguar. "So you are. He's a good choice too."
St. Croix stands and greets Tivoli. "What are you guys doing here?"
Paraná steps forward. "We have chosen a mark, and we are about to finalize that decision. Are the executives in?"
"Just Crevecoeur. He's with someone at the moment, but he'll leave soon afterwards."
"We won't take long." The jaguar introduces Tivoli to Inverness, then marvels at the sight of the Maltese. They hug each other, but she does not seem to be as happy as he is. As soon as the hug is released, Paraná leaves for the conference room. Mariana scans the ocelot, up and down, almost shocked at what she sees.
Tivoli looks on nervously. "What?"
"You're working here?"
"Yeah! Isn't that nice?"
"You're just a kid!"
Tivoli frowns. "I'm twenty."
"So was I!" She steps closer, lowering her head to look at the ocelot's eyes. "Technically, I turned twenty a month after I joined. You don't look--"
"Don't be deceived by looks," Shiloh says. "I vouched for her myself. The fact that she's already an apprentice so soon after joining means I was wise to do so."
Mariana shakes her head. She clearly wants to say something against the new recruit. She stares wide-eyed at Shiloh, but keeps her mouth shut. She simply sits on the front desk. "I've already said my piece. I'm not gonna say again how I think the girls are treated here."
Tivoli's eyes pace around the room. "What does that mean?"
Shiloh pats her back. "Don't mind Mariana. She's just paranoid. You'll be fine."
Before the Maltese can respond, Camille exits the hallway and comes through the lobby. She looks over the room and opens her mouth, probably to big farewell to the group. Once she spots Mariana however, she stops and stares at her.
The room turns quiet as the cat puts her hands in the pockets of her blue jeans. She looks ready for a fight. Mariana stands. Holding out her hands, she gently keeps the men away while creeping forward. She stops when the girls are eye to eye. Showing no anger or fear, the dog shrugs, acting as innocent as possible. "Look, I'm...sorry. I was a real bitch. I realize now that I was flaunting my success at you and Pam. I didn't realize the damage I was doing. There should never have been any rivalries between us. Now I...." Embarrassed, she folds her arms and looks at the ceiling. "I'm sorry," she repeats. A curt smile appears on her face. "We're not bad people. We just acted too much like girls instead of women. We should have been more in sync. We should have listened to each other, looked out for each other. If we had, then maybe Zesty would still...." She stops herself; her eyes are beginning to water again. Unfolding her arms, she tries to smile again and moves even closer to Camille. "Just tell Pam that I--"
Camille hisses, backing her counterpart away. (It also backs Shiloh and Tivoli away.) She takes a couple of breaths and composes herself. "Just go back to Fresno." With that, she quickly leaves the building.
Before anyone can comment on the proceedings, Paraná comes through the hallway with a laminated picture of the new mark. Following him is Crevecoeur, who loudly clears his throat and announces, "Okay folks, time to go. Tobias has finished his work. When the janitor is done, everything is done. Beat it."
Everyone files out the front door. Shiloh holds the door open for everybody. Hanging behind, Inverness nudges Mariana. "You want to go out later tonight?"
"Ask me tomorrow, okay? I'm too tired."
Tivoli again hangs on to her handler. "So, are you ready for another 'non-date?' I promise I won't make you spend any more money."
Paraná laughs. "Actually, I was wondering if you would come over to my place. We can review the plan and choose a date to hunt."
Shiloh sighs in exasperation. "No workplace romances!"
Tivoli sticks out her tongue at him and they drift off towards his car. Inverness and St. Croix get into their cars, waving a final time to the Maltese.
Crevecoeur gives her a hug and kiss on the nose. "Don't be a stranger."
"I'll try not to."
Shiloh acknowledges Tobias who is turning off the lights, and closes the door. He is about to enter his car when he notices Mariana staying behind. "You want me to give you a ride?"
"No, I drove." She watches as Shiloh drives away, then turns to the building to give it one last good look. The sky above is darkening and the moths are starting to gather around the outdoor lights. Thick clouds are forming overhead, obstructing the moon. It is going to be a dreary night. Mariana pretty much feels the same way. She wipes her eyes with the palms of her hands as she stands by the front door.
The lights inside are extinguished and the door opens. Tobias exits, heaving a sigh of relief. His job is done and not a moment too soon as far as he is concerned. He locks the door and turns for home. That is when he sees the Maltese looking at him, smiling broadly. He backs away in surprise, then laughs energetically.
"Hi there," she says. "Remember me?" She does not wait for an answer; his face tells her that he is ecstatic. She approaches him and they embrace. She looks like she means it this time because she is squeezing him really hard.
"When did you come back?" he asks.
"Today, but not to stay." She releases him and points at his feet. "You dropped your keys."
Tobias nervously looks down. The keys to the building are on his right shoe. "Thanks."
"You've been given your own keys? That's an honor."
"Nah, my uncle gave me his. He says that if I'm given the keys to this place, it would make me more responsible and keep me out of trouble. He treats me like a slave sometimes."
"Yeah, he kinda does. Still, I'm gonna miss Mr. Crevecoeur."
"I heard you were leaving. I was in the restroom when Shiloh told me." He stops smiling and puts the keys in his shirt pocket. "What's going on? Why are you going?"
"It's a long story, and one I don't feel like retelling. Almost everyone here still likes me, but I'm not really welcome. Zesty isn't either. So, I'm gonna jet."
"This is too sudden."
"Tell me about it." She stands next to him and partially unzips her motorcycle jersey. "I've been waiting out here to see you. Besides your uncle, you're the person I really came here to see."
"Really?"
"We're friends, aren't we?" She puts an arm around his shoulders. "So tell me, are the guys still making fun of you?"
The boy scoffs. "It's happening less, but yeah. They still do. When you're not here, or when Shiloh's not here, they still pick on me."
"Is Hoeness still the worst offender?"
"Not as much as the greyhound is. When you leave, it's gonna be worse than before."
"Yeah, I'm sorry about that. I didn't take you into account when I quit. It just happened. In fact, I didn't think about you at all until a couple of weeks after I left. That's wrong. After everything we've done for one another to help ourselves cope with this place, you deserved better than that."
Tobias turns away from her. "Well, since you're going, I'd just like to thank you for...showing me around the building, and the tips for avoiding Pica and Dunn...and those other asses. I wouldn't have survived the first six months without your help."
Mariana nods and closes in on him. "Yeah. And thank you for helping me with... my problem."
He looks at her again. "You're welcome. I've never...met anyone who couldn't read before."
"Yeah, well, I figured it was about time." She laughs, causing him to do the same. She watches as he bashfully turns away from her and slowly tries to walk away. "Wait," she says. He turns to see what she wants, only to stiffen as she leans forward and gently kisses his pursed mouth. It lasts a couple of seconds. He is completely taken aback by it, but tries his best to stay still.
For her part, Mariana gently holds his hands, trying to steady him. When she backs away, she does not wait for the kiss to register. "Walk me to my car."
He releases a shaky breath. "Sure." Acting really self-conscious, he puts his hands behind his back, clasping them tightly. As they walk away from the building, he tries to gather up some courage. "So what will you do?"
She shakes her head. "Don't really know. I'll do what Camille says and go back to Fresno. I'll meet up with Zesty, maybe stay at her place for a while, but beyond that, I don't know."
"I'm gonna miss you."
Mariana stops and looks at him, causing him to stop too. She looks apologetic and insecure, putting her hands in her pockets yet again. She stares, watching his wistful eyes blink at her. His sullen demeanor is making a quick goodbye really difficult. If she could run and hide, she probably would. "Listen, it's Friday night. Do you have any plans outside of home?"
"Not right now. I've got no money, but I'll get paid tomorrow. Maybe then I could--"
"Would you like to come home with me? We'll watch a couple of movies and I'll cook you something." She speaks quickly and loudly; she is practically getting a burden off her chest. "You don't have to if you don't want to."
"Are you kidding?!" His face comes alive with a big grin. "I'm there."
"I'm glad." She continues to the car, walking faster than before. He trails behind, confident and inspired, as if he has just accomplished something important. His face, and the rest of him, are positively glowing as he floats down the street, following his friend. A gust of wind causes him to briefly shut his eyes and cover his face. When he puts his hand down, she is well in front of him. Quickly, he scampers behind her until he catches up. He notices her tail wagging, and cannot help but observe it in action.
When they approach the car, she turns her head slightly. She coyly notices him looking at her rear end. It causes her to release a bashful, closed-mouth laugh. "Before you get any funny ideas, you should know that I'm asexual."
Tobias looks up. "What's that?"
"Asexual. 'Sexual' as in 'sex.' 'A' as in none." She laughs boisterously, embarrassing him. "Just get in," she titters. This is clearly the happiest she has been all day.
The human quickly enters the passenger seat of her brand new, black minivan. It does not have license plates on it yet. He looks over the inside of the vehicle as he closes the door. He simply cannot believe his luck. "So, what's for dinner?"