This is just a work of fiction. No one living or dead is involved in this story. Don't read if you aren't over 18. Don't archive or take credit this (as if you'd want it) without asking me first.
This is just a short little story but I'd love to hear your thoughts, whether through anonymous feedback. Thanks.
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While rummaging through my increasingly empty desk, I found a hand mirror. Odd how things get in there...not as odd as when I found a 4 Non Blondes CD wedged in a corner, but still strange. The mirror reflected a man I had known all my life, yet still felt alien to. The boyish good looks and sparkling blue eyes had grown hooded and slightly craggy. The broad shoulders, soaring pectorals and tiny waist had filled out to a functional, strong, but increasingly bulky frame. The wavy blonde hair had thinned considerably. I was 45. I was tired. And I was fired.
"Laid off" was the more official term. Either way, I'd been with this advertising firm since I was fresh out of grad school, had given them my youth, my time, my good will, my blood, and probably millions of dollars. They weren't even going to give me a gold watch. With all of the other department cuts, I knew I wasn't alone, and that I should probably be grateful to have hung on as long as I did, but being kicked in the teeth hurts no matter how delayed the connection with the boot is.
At least I didn't have any kids. All I had was Trevor, my partner of 12 years, and he fortunately had a successful business of his own. Maybe he could give me a job...
My downbeat thoughts were interrupted by a loud knock on the door.
"It's OK," I muttered, throwing a few more trinkets in a cardboard box as my
coworker entered the room. "Your loss, Michael, you get stuck with helping me carry this shit to my car."
Michael grinned his toothpaste advertisement smile.
"No fucking way, Carl. Maybe I'll push the elevator buttons for your ancient ass, but that's about all the effort I can give."