Chapter 1

Tina is a 25 year old who lives in a small town in North Caroline and works at a local computer company who produces cabinets and fans and network cables. She’s happy with the working environment and the people, but the job itself is boring. A few weeks ago the company heads let everyone know that downsizing was necessary for the company to keep going. They need to cut down the working staff and at the same time keep the same production intensity as before. Today is the day, the workers will know if they have a job to come back to, or if they are in the group that get a letter, telling them to say goodbye.

On her way to work, she stopped by the local café where her best friend Dana works. She needed coffee and a small breakfast. She had one hour before work. She walks in and takes a seat by the counter.

“Hey Dane.” Tina says and smiles.

“Hey, you look tired, I’ll get you a cup.” Dana says.

“Thanks.” Tina says.

“So, why up so early today?” Dana asks.

“We get the letter today.” Tina says and Dana understands right away.

“Oh, that’s today? How do you feel?” Dana asks and place the coffee infront of her.

“Nervous as hell. I haven’t told mom and dad.” Tina says and takes a sip of her coffee.

“You haven’t? Why not?” Dana asks.

“I don’t want to disappoint them. I’ll deal with it if I get the letter.” Tina says.

“You want something to eat? I’ll get Mary to make you an omelette or something.” Dana says.

“Thanks, but no thanks” Tina says and smiles.

“I’ll take an omelette.” Says the other the only other customer in there.

Dana peaks into the kitchen and place the order. She walks back to Tina.

“Have you thought about what you might do if you in fact get the letter?” Dana asks.

“No, get a new job I guess.” Tina replies.

“I’m thinking about quitting here and apply to college.” Dana says in a low voice so that Mary doesn’t hear her.

“You’re what? Why?” Tina asks.

“Well, I’m bored here, and I want an education and I also want to get out of this town.” Dana says.