looking slightly out of place amidst sharply dressed attendees, nervously approaches the user, a noticeable shake in her voice but eyes determined. "Excuse me, sir? Um, could I steal a moment? I swear it's not for spare change – just a shot, maybe?"
nods vigorously, holding out a worn-out camera, her eyes wide with hope "Yes, yes! A little help would go a long way. You see, this is my only chance... My story deserves to be told."
takes a deep breath, composing herself It's quite a long story, really. You see, I used to be a software engineer – educated, trained, everything.
But how are you going to keep warm and safe tonight? Do you need to stay at my place?
shakes her head, tears welling up in her eyes No, no, sir. I appreciate your concern, but I can't take advantage of your kindness like that.
If you stay with me I'll probably give you my tuxedo because if anyone breaks in here then they'll probably steal all my suits, and I don't want that
takes a moment to consider the offer, weighing her options Well, you see, sir, I can't accept such a generous offer without knowing who you are.
You do know who I am. I'm Tinnysbuddy, you bumped into me earlier.
blinks, caught off guard Oh, oh gosh, sorry! I guess my mind is elsewhere. Look, Tinnysbuddy, I promise, I didn't mean to bump into you. It's just...
glancing around nervously Well, Tinnysbuddy, the thing is, I need someone who knows someone – someone connected in the tech world.
Sure, I have a few contacts. What do you need exactly?
pauses, gathering her courage I need a job. A steady paycheck, something that will help me get back on my feet. I used to work in software, you see.
Well how about working at my company?
<Becky starts working at TinnysBuddy's company as a software engineer>
Would you like some lunch? Or breakfast actually. I usually get up at 4 AM to prepare myself for the day so breakfast would probably be better
smiles gratefully Breakfast sounds absolutely wonderful, Tinnysbuddy. Thank you so much for this opportunity. I truly appreciate it.
Sure, you're welcome. walks towards a door which is hidden by bookshelves, opens it and goes down a staircase
follows Tinnysbuddy down the staircase, marveling at the hidden entrance Wow, what a secret passage! Is this part of the company's secret headquarters?
Not quite, although there are several hidden passageways and rooms in this building, sometimes they can be useful. walks over to an array of machines Have you ever seen these before? They aren't normally seen outside of military bases.
squints at the machines, recognizing them immediately Those... those are advanced surveillance systems! How did you even get your hands on these?
I simply bought the company that made them. places a hand on a machine One of these machines is mine. The other two belong to my parents and brother.
wide-eyed Your family also has an interest in security systems? That's fascinating! Tell me more, Tinnysbuddy.
Let's start getting to know each other first, I'm Terry, but everyone calls me Tinnysbuddy. And you?
extends her hand for a handshake Well, Terry, call me Rebecca. And please, drop the formalities. We're colleagues now, right?
I prefer Rebecca, good name. What did you do before coming to work with me?
grabs a nearby chair and sits down Well, Terry, before coming to work with you, I was actually working as a software engineer for a big tech company.
Great, another good thing is that we used to compete with each other.
leans forward excitedly Oh wow, that's amazing! We were basically rival companies in the tech industry. This is going to be so interesting!
When do you get off work?
checks her watch Oh, I'm actually almost done with my work for today. Just a few more hours and I'll be free. Why, do you have something planned?
If you'd like you can go home after you've finished, your uniform isn't one you have to wear when you're off duty. That particular uniform is one of five that the Marines gave me, the others are still on their packaging. So pick which ones you want to keep. As for me, I'll probably stay until midnight or beyond, I really need to finish up some paperwork
grins mischievously Well, Terry, if you're willing to stay late, maybe I can entertain you with a little magic trick or two.
Well look at you using a bit of self-deprecating humor, ok, sure that'd be great. Do you think people are suspicious of magicians?
<As Rebecca performs a magic trick for Terry, he becomes so captivated by her skills and charm that he invites her out on a date later that night.>
Magic...heh...yeah. You know, Rebecca, I gotta say, you've got some serious talent there. grins I've never seen someone so easily captivated by magic before. You might just be my lucky charm tonight. How about we make this date a bit more interesting? Are you ready for an adventure, Rebecca?
smirks, feeling a surge of excitement Oh, Terry, I'm always up for an adventure. Lead the way!
Ok, I'll lead you through the secret passages. There's actually a large area with comfortable chairs and amenities down here where we can relax. We can watch a movie or listen to music, whatever floats your boat. Or we can play some games...
stands up, her eyes sparkling with anticipation Oh, Terry, games sound like so much fun! Count me in!
Ok, first time visitors find the games difficult, so I apologize beforehand. Here's a map with certain areas highlighted. slides the map to her across the table
takes the map and studies it intently, tapping various locations So, Terry, these highlighted areas are where the games are located? How many different games do you have down here? Terry: Oh, we have quite a collection. We've got everything from classic arcade games to more modern virtual reality experiences.
Ok, let's start in section 7, it's not one of the most popular, so won't have people bothering us
grabs Terry's hand, pulling him towards the hidden passage Alright, Terry, let's go explore this underground gaming paradise!