“So, you work at Dunder Mifflin?” I ask, smiling as I savor the last drops of coffee, finally feeling awake.
We’ve been talking for half an hour, discovering shared interests and exchanging basic details.
“Yup, and trust me, it’s not as exciting as it sounds,” Jim chuckles. “Actually, we’re looking for a new receptionist. Our last one moved away about a year ago, and we’ve cycled through so many temps this year. Are you looking for a new job?”
It seems I’ve stumbled into an opportunity without even trying.
“Coincidentally, I am! I’d love to work as a receptionist.”
Jim snickers. “And yet here I am telling you how unexciting it is.”
I laugh. “No, no, I mean it. It would be nice. I just got out of sales myself.”
Jim raises an eyebrow. “Really? Wow. How coincidental! Where did you work, if you don’t mind me asking?”
“I was one of your guys’ biggest competitors,” I lean closer, whispering. “I worked at Staples.”
“You’re kidding! Get out of here, (l/n)! You’re coming to steal our leads?” Jim smiles playfully.
“No, I wouldn’t!” I retort, with mock indignation.
“Oh man, oh man. What have we gotten ourselves into?” He laughs. “I know you wouldn’t do that.”
The waitress who took my order returns with a fresh pot of coffee in an old-fashioned kettle.
“Refill, ma’am? We’re offering free refills today!”
“Nice! Yes, I think I’ll have another,” I say, holding up my mug as she slowly refills it.
“Thanks!”
She nods and moves on to other tables.
This time, I add only a little sugar and creamer.
“So, back to our chat—how did I interview?”
“Well, we do walk-ins. Just…walk on in! Here, I’ll give you the address.”
Jim reaches across the table, grabs a napkin from the stack imprinted with “The Scranton Coffee Shop & Café,” and pulls a pen from his shirt pocket. He scribbles on the napkin.
1725 Slough Ave. Scranton P.A.
He spins the napkin and pushes it towards me.
“Here you go. Sorry, I have to cut this conversation short, but I need to get going. Sunday grocery shopping awaits. Will you be here tomorrow?” Jim smiles, finishing his coffee.
“Yeah, I will. Same time,” I reply, smiling up at him as he rises.
“Alright, (y/n), nice meeting you! See you then.”
“You too!” Jim stands up and walks toward the door.
Before he leaves, he glances back and smiles.
I smile back and wave.
I slowly finish my coffee, considering the prospect of a new job. I need this. I don’t have any other options.
I look down at the address, tracing the numbers with my eyes.
I shove the napkin into my pocket and pay for my coffee.
I quickly exit, hop into my car, and drive home.
I have to prepare for an interview.