Getting Fired

The living always think death is the end, the cessation of responsibilities, stress and work. They couldn’t be further from the truth.

I guess I have a modest job for a dead guy. I’m not sure if it’s punishment or reward for how I lived, it’s just my job. I’m not sure what happens if I fail. I’ve been led to believe that it will redefine terror.

My job is simple, making the livings’ life more difficult. Not all of them, just ones I’m assigned. I’ve been told the purpose is that; “Life isn’t enriching when things are too easy” or some other idealistic mission statement crap like that.

Most of what I do is straightforward. Deleting files right before their work is complete, draining the batteries in cars and devices. Just simple frustrating things to cause challenge in their peaceful existence. Occasionally, I’ll get tasked with a big one. Cancer or car accident is usually my go-to in these cases.

It was a simple job, until I was assigned Isabel. I threw everything I could at disrupting this optimistic, perky, always smiling, skipping through the challenges, woman.

Nothing, and I mean nothing, throws her off her blind optimism and it’s making me sick. I’ve taken her family, friends, given her strange diseases, every time she meets it with a smile and confidence.

I’m not sure what happens if I fail, but I’m afraid I’m going to find out.

Usually I can’t see everything my target does, I’m assigned multiple people at a time. This one is personal now; Isabel must be made to falter. I’ve been slowly influencing her life in a positive direction. Thinking that she’s positive because things never were great for her; therefore, loss has no impact.

I used every resource from romance stories I can think of, setting this up over months. She’s deeply in love, he quickly became her world. I’ve used more positive influence than I am permitted to get them here. A romantic holiday in a secluded getaway, dinner for two, cushions set in front of a crackling fire, cuddling and exploring their love.

It couldn’t be more perfect. Her eyes are sparkling, locked with his, I’ve never seen love this intense in the eyes. She’s unaware that I’ve chosen him due to his heart defect. One flick of my finger through his chest and boom… This will devastate her…

I focus on patience, nervously pacing the room. I must let the passion build to a peak before I take him. I’m already on thin ice.

From the corner of my eye, movement, a glint, something shiny. I turn quickly rushing to them… It’s too late. Isabel plunged the knife directly through his heart. Staring deeply into his eyes, watching the last bit of his life drain. She’s so damn insanely happy.

I scramble to come up with a plan or explanation. I can see myself dissolving already…

I’m not sure what will happen because I failed, but I’m terrified.

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