Chapter 5: Friday
Doug peered cautiously around the cubicle opening. Beckett’s back was to him; he was busy clearing out his desk. He pulled out a drawer, scooped up the contents, then slammed it shut. His shoulders were tense. Doug coughed deliberately.
“Later, Doug,” Beckett said without looking around.
Doug ignored him and stepped inside. “You guessed it was me?”
“Yeah.” Beckett turned with a rueful smile. “You should stop borrowing my aftershave.”
Doug grinned. The guy looked calm, at least. His eyes flickered to the large box on Beckett’s desk. “The rumour’s true then. Big guys came and saw you this morning and let you go.”
“Reluctantly.”
“Goes without saying.” Doug nodded.
“They’re willing to keep the issues within the company and provide a reference, but they can’t allow thi
