Pietro Escovar looked out of place at the Burger Booth. His $10,000 suit and his diamond earring spoke of wealth and power, a contradiction to the environment. His entire demeanor contrasted with the man sitting on the other side of the table: the military uniform, stiff posture, and invasive stare of Commandante Viroz, the most powerful man in the city.
Their conversation was a whisper, not audible at all over the din of the locals laughing and talking in loud voices while chomping down greasy burgers and glow in the dark sodas. Neither of them noticed the slim, sultry figure of Miranda Delores Feroz, sitting quietly in the corner, sipping a glowing orange drink and seeming disinterested. Pietro was agitated. Viroz had promised him sole manufacturing rights for the new Stealth Tank. His success at developing Translucent Concrete and Microwave Blasters, Pietro thought, had insured him of the VERY lucrative contract for the new tanks. But it appeared it wasn’t going to be quite that easy.
Viroz cleared his throat and looked stoically at the prim man in his suit and smiled. “So, you are unhappy that we are taking bids for this project”, he said wryly. “What did you expect? You’re not the only company capable of accomplishing this.”
“Of course not”, Pietro replied, trying to sound as if he weren’t bothered at all by this change. “However, the quality of our work, as well as the fact that we came in under budget on the last two contracts, should certainly mean…” Pietro stopped mid-sentence. “Of course,” he thought. “This is all a ruse to get a bigger kick back.” “I assure you, Commandante, your consideration will be VERY MUCH appreciated. I was just thinking yesterday that my Private Security Company is in desperate need of a new board member…which comes with a substantial stipend as well as a lifetime suite at the Tower Club!”
Viroz smiled, stood up and held out his hand. “Then, we are in agreement”, he said with a firm but agreeable tone. “I will make the announcement within the week.” Turning, he walked through the crowded establishment towards the door, everyone stepping aside to accommodate him.
Pietro followed suit and exited through the other side of the restaurant, walking right past Miranda’s table. He glanced her way as he passed, which was hard not to do considering her beauty. He immediately noticed her stunning gray eyes, which seemed to pierce him like a sword.
“So”, Miranda thought to herself. “The game is already in play.” Grabbing her cell phone, she opened an app and entered several complicated commands, then exited to the street. Pietro was still in sight, standing on the corner talking on his phone. A slight glint hit her eyes as her personal Drone, fully integrated with a Surveillance Camera, moved past her and hovered 30’ over Pietro’s unknowing head. “In play….but not yet won”, she muttered. “It is sad that Mr. Escovar is not aware of how easily accidents can happen.”