A bar with atmosphere

"Ah, now that's better," said the Major, after taking a long draught of his gin & tonic.

Having already checked in and taken his bag to his room, he'd joined his two companions - or, given who was paying his bill, hosts would be a better word - in the hotel's bar.

"I must say, this place doesn't disappoint, Hewson," he continued. "Just the kind of independent hotel we should all be doing our best to support, eh?"

Bob Hewson nodded. It was hard to disagree with the man, but he couldn't help thinking about how much this place was costing per night. Still, he told himself, it would all be worth it in the end.

"After all," continued the Major, "independence is what it's all about. Celebrating the individual, and all that; the small guy versus the corporate bully. Am I right?"

Again, Hewson nodded, as did Armstrong - the latter clinking his teeth against his pint glass in his keenness to be seen to agree.

"And how is the recruitment drive going, gentlemen? When the Church of the New Word opens its doors, will the pews be full of the faithful, hmmm?"

Before Bob Hewson could reply, Armstrong cut in with "well, there should be plenty of people...or at least that's what we thought. But since the old lady, I'm not so sure any more. How do we know this contraption of yours works properly, eh? We've only got your word for it."

Trying to calm him down, Bob said "come on Phil, keep your voice down. People are looking. I'm sure it's all fine."

Armstrong didn't want to be shushed, though, ignoring Bob and continuing to press the Major. "But what if it doesn't work properly? Whose arse is on the line then, eh? I mean, we're doing our bit here, but what's your contribution, eh? What's yours?"

The Major held his gaze for a moment longer than was comfortable. Then, very calmly, he said "thanks. I'll have another G&T."



Story starts here.