The Before Short Story Series. Part 1 - стр. 24
‘What kind of a weasel is that man, Antonio?’ Robert asked.
‘Who knows. I have no idea. Anyway, it is important for me to understand how the presenter will carry on with him. It is quite possible that we will also need to get into the program. So I’m trying to read it,’ Antonio picked up the communicator and started making notes.
‘Look at me—is everything all right?’
‘What’s the matter, Robert?’ Antonio turned to him. ‘Oh. I see. Antonio got up from the sofa and walked over to his boss, examining him from head to toe. ‘Well, I can tell you, I think everything is fine. Although… Wait… rather, you know, too good. It’s too proper or something. We need a slight imperfection. Maybe let the polo out of the jeans? Eh?’
‘No, it would be too informal.’
‘Well, actually, yes. I agree, Robert. Then here’s what. I know. We need to change the watch. Keep it simple and out of place.’
Robert looked at the chosen watch:
‘Okay. Good. Then, the best choice is up to you.’
‘Of course, in a moment,’ Antonio replied and went into the dressing room. ‘As you know, every detail is important in our business!’ climbing the stairs, he shouted out.
‘So it’s exactly the problem, that I know…’ muttered Robert.
Barel, who was sitting in the kitchen and reading the news, looked at the boss, distracted by their conversation with Antonio:
‘Good morning, boss,’ he said in a loud voice.
‘Oh, hello, Barel. I didn’t notice you. Everything OK?’
‘Well, yes. It’s all good. The weather is great today.’
‘Now, that’s fine, Barel. We’re going for a little walk today.’
‘Yes, boss. Meeting with the Chinese guys at 12:30?’
‘So it is.’
‘What do you prefer, boss—by tube or by capsule?’
‘It will be hot on the tube. We’ll drive somewhere closer to the meeting place. And then I’ll walk. And you have to stay in the car, Barel. I’ll go with Antonio.’
Barel looked at Robert:
‘If I must, then I must, boss. Whatever you say. Anyway, I’ll be there. I think there shouldn’t be any problems.’
‘I’m positive too. But, as our old friend used to say, the best improvisation is prepared improvisation.’
‘He was right, your friend, boss.’
Robert smiled.
Parliament
Barel, having made sure that everyone was in place and ready to go, took a seat on the first row in the capsule—the car smoothly started accelerating. On the control panel, he double-checked the route and microclimate settings for the drive. Everything as Robert prefers: 22 degrees, active filtration and ionization of the intake air, noise reduction and silence in the cabin. Then, his task was to look around and to not interfere.