Art of War, chapter 5, verse 19.

Thus, one who is skillful at keeping the enemy on the move maintains deceitful appearances, according to which the enemy will act.

It’s great to realize that when in time of need, Sun Tzu’s teaching seems to fit the situation. This I am in is a war between me and my sanity against reality. I guess all the nights I was reading Art of War in Project Gutenberg were worth it, after all.

As I was getting ready to compose myself when Roxie spoke.

“It now makes sense.” Her eyes were glaring at Kaizer’s as if he’d done something wrong. “Not that I’ve known it already, but Kai here already told me his deeds. I was caught off-guard when he was referring to you all along, Art.”

I opened my mouth in awe. The nerve of this Woodsworth to be so casual with his wrongdoings! I tried to talk but no words can simplify what I am feeling right now.

“Rox,” Kaizer said, “I never said a name because I thought there wouldn’t be a possibility that we will actually meet after he left the school without a word.”

“You really think I could stomach to be in that school after what you did, Woodsworth? I was a plague to them to the point I was excluded in every single damn thing.” I tried to hold back my tears, but I felt a slither of wetness in my right eye. I held back my emotions as I felt that this area is not safe for me to vomit all the pain I have endured in years. I sighed. “We’re all fucked up in our own ways; it just so happened that I was born with a thing for men. What’s with that anyways to you, Kaizer? I’ve been wanting to ask that all along.”

For all that to be said with a low, non-shouting tone is a hell of a feat for me.

Roxie patted my back and calmed me down as she wiped my lonely tears. She sighed and turned to Kaizer. “Kaizer, just so you know, this cute potato had my back when I got scolded by that old hag Hemmington. I don’t know what I can say about what you did but for the sake of our friendship, could you two get on good terms?”

I shot a death glare at Roxie, mentally asking her, “what the actual fuck, girl?”

“I can agree with that, seeing Art here will be joining the crew, I should make amends,” Kaizer nodded.

“Hold on a sec.” I shushed Kaizer into speaking more folly.  “I haven’t yet given my application form, nor will I give one especially if someone like you”—emphasis on the you —“Kaizer, will be my boss.”

“Are you really going to throw it all out because of my past mistakes?” Kaizer plead. “At a professional standpoint, I can see you will be a great asset in the business, and I know you are eager to learn more about the craft, albeit you go harbor feelings down the grave.”

I rolled my eyes in disbelief. “What a talk. I bet you couldn’t even sell with that attitude of yours—” Kaizer cut me off as he put a big book in black hardbound cover on the counter. It was the financial statements of last year. Smack at the front it says:

THE ESPRESSO MACHINE URBAN CAFE

Consolidated Financial Statements

for the Period Ended December 31, 2023

Prepared by

KAIZER LICHT WOODSWORTH, JR., CPB

Bookkeeper

Audited by

LUMIÈRE MARC SAINT-PIERRE, CPA, CPB

Auditor

“Sales have risen to an estimate of 11.9 million Canadian dollars from our 10 branches all over the nation. We have been collaborating with other malls and advertisers under my leadership.

“Net profits after taxes are 4.65 million; I manage the business using the just-in-time system and lean manufacturing. At the same time, I also act as the bookkeeper since I have the background. I have also garnered an unqualified opinion in our audit for the past three consecutive years.

“If you have problems with my attitude, then I apologize because I know I am a total asshole during our junior high; but I do not think you should perceive me into the things that you think I am from our past.”

I swiped my hands to the pages of the financial statements, and I do admit I am impressed.

“I am in actual disbelief, if I will be honest,” I muttered beneath my breath and stared at Kaizer. “Still, that doesn’t give me a reason to be here.”

“The minimum wage is 15 dollars an hour, as per the requirements in Edmonton, but I normally provide double the amount. In fact, salaries are the highest expenses incurred last year.”

“What?”

“30 dollars?” Roxie exclaimed. “You really are a generous man.”

I snorted. “How about insurance?”

“500 thousand dollars in medical and health insurance, 400 thousand dollars in education assistance for beneficiaries, and 200 thousand dollars in death insurance. Max.”

I am kind of tempted by the too-good-to-be-true benefits Kaizer has laid down in one go. Why do I feel he’s pleading with me to be a part of this business? Does he have a hidden agenda? A glance at his auburn eyes tells me otherwise.

Silence reigned over the lonely café before the closing of the books shut broke it. I felt strange; given in front of me was the Kaizer Woodsworth that made my life hell, yet here he was as if he was possessed by some angel.

I sighed. “I don’t know why I feel like you actually wanted me to be a part of this game.” I glanced at Roxie, her eyes telling me she’s got my back. “But for Roxie’s sake, fine.”