Eric had slipped out just before 2:30pm when his appointment was scheduled. He had raced downstairs just to circle the retail concourse in the basement of his office tower. This date had been circled on his calendar for a year. Why couldn't he bring himself to go in?
"Peterson! How've you been son?" Brent McGregor was a senior VP in mortgages. Eric could only wish to have five minutes with this guy on any other day, just not today. He could feel the sweat beading on his forehead.
"I'm great sir - you know how it is in foreclosures-"
"Yes, yes- been a couple decades since I've manned those phones, I'm sure you've got a great career ahead of you- say, were you going to Jerry's? I was heading in there myself, just a hot towel and shave,"
The older man had slung his arm around Eric's shoulder and steered him into the barber shop where he'd been stalled for the last few minutes. This was NOT happening, he screamed internally.
"Jerry! Sorry for the surprise, I brought a friend-"
"Yes, Eric, you're late for your appointment, come get in this chair," Eric stared at the handsome stylist, begging for some reprieve.
"Uh, well know what Jer' - Mr McGregor's a real busy guy, why not let him take my spot and I'll come back later,"
"Nonsense Peterson, I'm good for a nap anyhow- I'm sure Jerry won't mind double teaming us, if you give him moment to get me started. How bout it Jerry?"
Eric tried to silently express his panic to the barber while still appearing business casual. Jerry stood there, his bald head shining in the track lights as he considered the two men. He stroked his finely trimmed grey beard and nodded.
"I think I can accommodate both of you fine gentlemen, if you will," Jerry motioned for Mr. McGregor to take a chair in the shampoo area behind a row of mirrors. Normally, the barber shop would be bustling with cutters, but Thursdays Jerry worked alone.