Surprise

Flash Fiction

Surprise

“There’s a storm coming.”

“It’s completely clear out there.” Ted said.

“I wasn’t talking about the sky; I was talking about Hendo’s.” Frank said.

“Another paranoia?” Ted added, quietly.

“The bosses are gearing up about something… they’ve had four sneaky meetings this week.”

“They have meetings all the time.”

“Yes, but they never used to shut the door…”

“You think that means something? Like what?”

“Like something’s different.”

“Like what? Somebody’s stealing money? We’re selling all their business secrets to others? That kind of stuff?”

“I don’t know, I just hate sneaky stuff. I’ve been working here longer than any of you, I can tell when something is different. Something different is happening…”

Suddenly Alex Babcock came out of the meeting room with his bullhorn. “Gang?” he started, “We’re gonna have a quick staff meeting in the café. Could you all put your things in a safe place for a half hour or so? Then gather in the café. We’ll be there in a few minutes.”

“I told you so!” said Frank.

“Ah, Frank?” Alex called over, “Could you help me with some stuff in my car? I forgot to bring it in this morning.”

Alex looked at Ted, “Hold me a seat!” he said finally, walking off to follow Alex.

Alex had a pile of boxes in his car, none very heavy just awkward to carry. The two men brought them in, and to Alex’s office, then went to the café.

As soon as they opened the door: “Happy Birthday to our longest employee! Frank Giffard!” the president called, even Frank’s wife was there!

Frank keeled over in surprise, and had to be sent to the hospital in an ambulance!

So, that was the first and last surprise anyone at Hendo’s ever tried. Frank, of course, just loved it!