Brent called Alex into his office.

“Sit down Alex, I have some bad news. The company missed again on its annual sales goals. We’re going to have to make some layoffs. We are terminating your position effective immediately.”

“Good,” said Alex surprisingly. “Layoffs are a necessary part of every company. Are we eliminating the product placement division?”

“Yes,” said Brent, nonplussed by Alex’s casual demeanor. “Everyone in your division will be terminated.”

“Excellent,” exclaimed Alex excitedly. “Those guys struggled mightily. They’ve been bringing down our company for years.”

“Yes, and you do realize you are part of that division right?,” said Brent.

“Absolutely, and I couldn’t agree more with your decision. It will be sad to see them go, but we should be fine without them,” said Alex.

“You mean ‘we’ as in me and the other people who are not fired,” grumbled Brent.

“Precisely. But about that, Brent. I’m sorry…but…without the product placement division, you will have no one to manage. I’m afraid we’re going to have to let you go,” said Alex, frowning.

“Alex, stop screwing around. I am your boss. You can’t fire me,” Brent exclaimed with a huff.

“And I don’t want to fire you, but corporate is forcing my hand. Let’s not make this any harder than it has to be,” said Alex.

Brent slammed his fist down on the table. “Ok, get out of my office, pack your things and leave the premises by 2 p.m.”

“Ahh, 2 p.m., no can do,” said Alex. “I have an important meeting with Brent.”

Brent erupted, “I’M BRENT!”

“Fantastic!” Alex beamed. “Great to meet you Brent, I guess I’m a little early for the interview. But once I heard about the job opening Alex vacated—well—I just had to come as soon as I could.”

Then, Brent killed Alex.