Death of the Machine

The New Man in alarmingly high spirits this morning. Attempts high fives on entrance to office. Unfortunately for him, both the Contessa and I bad at sports and Afraid of behavior associated with sports. I at least try to meet the New Man's hand--instead of solid clap we produce unsatisfying pat. Trying to high five the Contessa meets with even less success. The Contessa looks at the wall and blushes until the New Man lowers his hand. Feel extreme embarassment for all of us. Embarassment still not worn off when attend weekly meeting. During meeting, Vice-Boss eats Kiwi fruits in very obsessive manner. She cuts each fruit in two and then scoops out flesh with spoon. Would not have noticed way she is eating except for the fact that she eats about fifteen in a row, with much repulsive smacking of the lips. (Later, the Contessa says that she's lucky if she doesn't get the Runs.)Meeting concerns trip to Europe which is fast approaching. Have temporary panic whn realize that Contessa will be gone for a whole week. Last time she was gone for a week, became fast friends with Libby, which made feel nervous and inadequete and led to excessive use of the labeling machine. Was very glad when the Contessa returned. Am lost in memories of the week of Libby when noise of fart emanates from the Vice-Boss's chair. The New Man, with shocked expression on face, says Whoa. Next several minutes very tense. Vice-boss Asks, Why would you do that to me? Then she Cries. The New Man says It was Just a joke, somehow refusing to apologize. The Contessa, with great presence, leaves the office and brings back Kleenex, which the Vice-Boss makes ample use of. Wish that could say was helpful at all. Instead, feel paralysis spread across body and into face. Meeting is declared over, but as both Vice-Boss and New Man hide in offices for rest of afternoon, have exact feeling of witnessing parents fight. The Contessa and I whisper to each other. The Contessa says that she Can't believe how Grown People behave. Agree with her strongly, but quietly.