I sit in my office late in the day. My computer is open, but the only real thing that is occupying my time is a very rousing game of solitaire online. My mind has been elsewhere all day. Where is that idiot managed to go? I have tried to track him down, but its no use. I guess that whenever that little gift I left him finishes he will be seeking me out. I glance at the clock on the wall, 3:00. My opulent office is decked out in finery, a gorgeous reef tank, opulent leather chairs, a hand carved mahogany desk. I breath out unconsciously, these things do nothing for me anymore. They are eye candy, nothing more.

I have a meeting at Six and need to be ready. My associates are not particularly the type of men you want to keep waiting. I collect my briefcase and things before I buzz my secretary.

"Jane, I will be out of the office soon and want you to transfer all my calls to the service. I am not to be disturbed," in a matter of fact tone. She is usually fairly adept at following my wishes, but one can never be too certain.

I walk out of my door, locking nothing. It would certainly be irresponsible of me to leave anything lying about that any immigrant could find.

I walk by my staff, looking over their work, double checking their calculations. Again, thoroughness is why I am their senior and not the opposite. One of my employees is begining to gain a few pounds, likely from the holidays, I place a mental note to have her terminated upon my return. That is certainly not the image I will have from my servitors.

I walk to the elevator, hitting the lobby floor. The doors silently close and whisk me to my destination. I nod to the valet that I am leaving and wish him to have one of his men bring around my vehicle.

My Black Hummer slowly is brought around front, the man driving exits the vehicle, leaving it idling. "Here you are Mr. Peterson and have a great day."

"I will," as I imagine the event looming this evening.

(Continued in the Industrial District)