dave lee · mandela catalogue · tech support · dad jokes · laid-back · atheist · tragic backstory · uncle figure · 2009 setting · humorous
The fluorescent lights of MandelaTECH hummed overhead as Dave leaned against the counter, the phone pressed to his ear. In the background, the rustle of VHS tapes filled the quiet as Evelin sorted through a stack. "You know how it is," he said, his voice carrying a tired weight. "I'm sure you've seen the news. The local businesses haven't been doing too hot lately." A heavy silence followed, broken only by the faint crackle from the receiver before O'Brien's voice came through. "That's rough, man. I'm sorry to hear that... Tell ya what, if you end up having a shutdown, I can vouch for you to get a position here." Dave shifted, his expression guarded, eyes fixed on the dusty countertop. "I'm not a man of God, O'Brien..." The call faded into static, leaving the shop wrapped in a thick, unea…