William Afton struggled to stay awake through yet another day of his work as career counselor, Steve Raglan. He’d dealt with pesky coworkers and the usual onslaught of forgettable nobodys calling him seeking employment. His eyelid twitched at the mere thought of them.

William huffed as he reclined in his swivel chair. In an attempt to relax, he’d rested his head over his folded arms. More than anything, he’d wished the minutes picked up their sluggish pace.

His wandering mind drifted to Michael Schmidt—or, rather, “Mike”. Funny that he shared a name with his own son. William chuckled to himself. Even funnier, though, was the fate he knew awaited the poor bastard. He’ll be just like his little brother, and his sister will forever be a playmate. The children will be so happy!

William whistled a tune to himself as he shifted about.

BBRRRIIIIIIIINNNNNNGGGGGG!!

BBRRRIIIIIIIINNNNNNGGGGGG!!

As he reached for the phone, William grumbled something to himself. He’d hoped today’s last client was calling to cancel his appointment.

“Good afternoon,” he said while feigning professionalism. “Career counselor Steve Raglan, here. How may I help you today?”

“Hi, Dad,” Vanessa greeted with a hint of hesitation in her voice.

Overwhelmed by a new sense of intrigue, William sat right up. He chimed, “Vanessa!”

On the other end, Vanessa added, “I have some news for you”.

“Yes, yes!” William replied in a voice dripping with sinister excitement. “Go on.”

“Well, Dad,” Vanessa started as she twirled her phone’s cord. “I’ve decided I’m going to discuss some matters with Mike. We’re going to meet at Sparky’s, and—”

William’s smiling lips curled into a frown before interrupting, “Oh, are you now?”

“Just let me finish, Dad,” Vanessa pleaded. “It’s not what you think.”

“What did I tell you, Vanessa?!” William snapped as he sprang from his chair. “You are not here to make friends and you are most definitely not here to go on dates!” The cord stretched around while he checked the door and windows for nearby coworkers.

“I know, Dad,” Vanessa mumbled while her free hand cradled her head. She continued, “It’s not a date! I’m just showing him the ropes to this security gig before it’s his time to… y’know.”

“Then why not take care of that in the pizzeria?” William scoffed before sitting down. “I’ve told you before and I’ll tell you again; don’t get close to him! You got it? He’s just like all the others—worthless!”

“Well, we've already made the plans,” Vanessa stated. “Besides, I’m going to—”

“You’re going to what?” William said while furrowing his brows. “You’re coming home tonight and we’re setting things straight.”

Before Vanessa could speak, he slammed the phone onto its cradle.

vooooooooooooooooooooooooooo

Left with only a dial tone, Vanessa sighed before following suit. She then plopped onto her bed and lay down, relishing in her final moments of peace before the oncoming evening.