[Bob and Alice have worked together for 4 years. They don’t know each other very well, but always say “good morning” and occasionally exchange small talk. They meet in the hall.]
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Bob |
Hi, Alice. Did you hear what Dave did? |
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Yeah, Bob! I wish I could afford to do that! |
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Bob |
Really? I didn’t realize we had that in common. What’s been happening in your group lately? |
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(a little confused by the change of subject) We’ve got a new manager, Carol. |
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Bob |
So, what is she doing to make life miserable for you? |
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Nothing! She’s even better than Ellen was. I couldn’t be happier. |
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Bob |
So why are you thinking of quitting? |
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What are you talking about? |
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Bob |
I’m talking about Dave throwing down his badge in disgust on the conference room table, in the middle of a meeting, and storming out of the building. |
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(shocked) Dave did that? When? |
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Bob |
Yesterday morning. You mean you didn’t know that? (beat) What were you talking about? |
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I was talking about Dave treating his mother to a $300 dinner last weekend at Chez Jacques. |
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Bob |
(confused) That doesn’t sound like him, especially with how angry he’s been lately. I wonder what he was thinking. |
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I have no idea. (beat) …but were you saying that you were thinking of quitting, too? That’s news to me. What’s going on? |
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Bob |
(backtracking) Oh, nothing – business as usual. (changing the subject) But wait a second. Dave’s mother is still alive? She must be really old. |
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She can’t be that old. Dave’s only 25. |
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Bob |
Dave Morris? 25? No way. |
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No, Dave Weisman. Now I get it. I didn’t think Dave would be that impulsive. Dave Morris on the other hand – that I can imagine. He’s got this self-destructive streak, besides. I wonder if he has enough money to just retire or if he’ll be scrambling for a new job right away. (as they walk off down the hall) …but what’s been bothering you about your job….? |