-The Temp's Tale-

Four mechanics in coveralls - two of them full time, two of them part time - put down their tools and tires at 4 PM and raced each other up the cramped stripmall stairs. Once they'd reached the office with two Benedicts - one permanent, one (me) temporary - the four mechanics lined up like naughty children who cannot make eye contact.

"Um.." they began.

"Is it quitting time already?" I asked.

"We worked through lunch..."
"..and several coffee breaks..."
"..so you'd have more time for the story."

The edge city congestion outside is about as seductive as a last call regular. So my reluctance, as it was, was wholly feigned.
"Very well." I conceded.

"Hot dog!" the mechanics sat cross-legged on the once-shag carpet, shhing each other as they got as comfortable as their bulk allows. The other Benedict made no pretence at work; he quietly swiveled his chair.