Lottie’s flash fiction story is nearly complete. But she suddenly loses her internet connection. This can’t be happening she says while she stares at her computer screen, willing it to connect. Poppycock, I still need access to an online database. [Lottie calls her company’s service line.
[Ring ring]
[Click]
Lottie: “Hello, I would like to speak with...
Robot: “I’m sorry our agents are currently busy helping other callers, but your call is important to us. Please hold. We will be with you shortly.”
Lottie: “Yes, but…
[Music starts to blare from her phone’s speakers]
1:30 p.m.
Robot. “Thank you for waiting. We will be with you shortly.” “Have you checked our website?” “It may be able to answer your questions.”
Lottie: “You have got to be kidding,” she says in a frustrated tone.
3:00 p.m.
Robot: “Thank you for continuing to hold.”
Lottie now has a headache and rubs her forehead. She runs into the kitchen, grabs a bottle of water, holds it against her forehead and returns to her computer screen. Still no connection. She curls up in a chair, balances the phone against one ear and falls asleep.
4:00 p.m.
Robot: “Your call is important to us.” “Please continue to hold.”
Lottie wakes up as soon as she hears the recorded message.
Robot: “If you would like to leave a call back number where you can be reached, please do so now.”
Lottie shakes her head in disbelief. She yearns for a live voice.
6:00 p.m.
Robot: “Please try again tomorrow.” “We are open for business at 8:00 a.m.” “Goodbye.”
[line disconnects]
Lottie swears and goes in search of a dictionary.