Audience
by Ty Franck
Linus watched his personal assistant bustle through the door of his immense
bedroom at exactly the right time. He had been awake long enough that he was no
longer bleary-headed, but not long enough to start thinking about doing things for
himself. This was the perfect time for someone to come talk to him about the
day's plans, and this particular assistant had arrived at exactly that moment every
day for the last six years.
Of course, Linus thought, his very perfection is why he is my personal assistant.
"Slept well I hope? Good, let's talk about the day's appointments," said Michael
as he walked across the room and drew back the curtains. Every morning it was
the same. A quick, impersonal greeting and on to business. Linus sighed and
decided not to make too much fuss today.
"Yes, Michael, I slept very well. The bed was very comfortable, and the comforter
is wonderful. Please send my compliments to everyone."
"Excellent," said Michael, making a few quick notes on his pad. "You have a very
full schedule today; shall we go over it?"
"Will there be much traveling today, Michael? I'm not feeling up to traveling. I
think I might be getting a headache."
Michael merely gave him the blank stare he used when he thought Linus was
being petulant. When just enough time passed that Linus began to feel silly, but
before he felt the need to become truly obstinate, Michael said, "All of your
appointments today are here in New York. We will be traveling by car from here
to the museum for an art exhibit, paintings I believe. We will then travel by car to
your luncheon. A new restaurant called The Orange Garden. There are three
chefs there, and all are in contention for top rankings this year. It is your most
important stop of the day. After, we will travel by car to the Opera. The composer
is Lisa Takei. She is a relatively new talent to the rankings, but some are saying
the finest since Whitworth last year. It has a highly ranked cast."
Michael was giving him the other look now, the one that asked whether he was
going to behave or not. "I do try to appreciate Japanese opera, Michael, you know
I do. I'll be very attentive, I promise," said Linus.
