Michael's Guide To Third Wheeling || Michael Clifford

Tip #9: Get Ready

What to remember: Explanations are boring, but it's sometimes worth it if you really listen. Also, make it appear like you're upset to get a really good confession out of people.

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Psst guess what I found out today? My middle name is actually "Bitter".

And speaking of names, mine was called out undeniably loud today.

"Michael!"

It was like a military scene. There was a General, Ms. Kennedy, there were the soldiers, who consisted of the staff, and...the one the General liked to pick on the most, ()me.

I was thankful enough to be spared from even more trouble, but it sure as heck was embarrassing.

I stomped my way back, retreating from the scene while I joked around with a certain thought. "Next thing I know," I jeered. "I'll be hearing more speeches."

With a swift, robotic movement, I carried on with my job, happily knowing that the space was occupied by no one but me.

I had finished fixing up my area when one of my colleagues entered. "Hey, Mike? What's up?"

I had my back towards the girl as I continued to shove the chicken strips (a new flavor for once) in the patty. See, ever since our tacos weren't selling well, the owner of Wacko Taco finally decided to add something else, other than tacos, to the menu. The kitchen was sort of empty today, since Ms. Kennedy was doing some "examination" or interrogation (as the other staff members like to call it) to the other coworkers today. I was to have mine later because...

"I was late today," I huffed. "One more count and I lose this job."

"I thought you never liked working here anyway."

"Yeah, well." I felt myself tense up a bit. Darn it. I forgot which sauce to put in. "Where else will I work?"

"You could be a barista in the emo coffee shop?"

Upon hearing about the coffee shop, I dropped the ketchup container (unintentionally) but at the same time, remembering what happened with Charlotte the other day.

"Let me help you," the girl offered in a worried tone while she rushed to my side.

"No," I stopped her immediately with my hand. The girl lowered her eyes and I placed my hand down. "No, it's fine. I got it."

"Are you sure?"

"You've done enough for me already." I said in a hurt voice. If I had continued to show this mood, Candace was bound to know I was joking.

"Michael?" she asked in a tone I wasn't expecting to come from from her. It was soft and grave.

"Yup?" I stood up shortly after she did and turned away so I could grab something to wipe the splotches on the floor.

"I'm sorry."

"Ahem," another voice called out, which made me forget what to say. I turned to look who had interrupted, but I didn't see anyone.

"Can I go out now?" the voice whined. "And by the way, Candace, we're sorry. Not only you!"

Candace gave a threatening look at whoever was behind her and an apologetic one at me.

"Calum?" she stormed. I wanted to laugh, but I had to remind myself to pretend to be a bit upset so I could hear what they had to say. "Calum, get out of there! Ugh." Candace dispatched herself away from me and went to scold her lover. "I told you to stay put. Oh gosh, did you get scratched? I'm so sorry...but that's what you get for not listening to me!"