Break Time

A Crowd Hoot story

By Thelma Mary Caroline

"Exactly what are you doing in the break room, Hannah?" a voice barked.

The woman just rolled her eyes.  "I'm taking my break."

"Your break is from 2:50 until 3:00.  It's 3:10."

"I know, but there was some movement on my comp, so I stayed for a moment to check it out."

"So your just making up for it?" the captain asked in a dangerous tone of voice.

"Yup."

"That would be fine, except that the Center has a policy that clearly states that each member of the crew takes their break at their schedualled time, unless they have express permission from their respective leader."

Suddenly L J looked around.  "Did I get that right?"

"That's right, Cheif," Charley said.  "Part two, section A, paragraph three, lines 26 A through 36 C."

Charley memorized the rule book during her break.

"Hmm," the captain said thoughtfully.  "I don't remember you asking me for permission.  Let alone my giving it."

"Maybe you had temporary amnesia," Charley suggested.

L J just glared at her.  But her attention was quickly back on Hannah.  "Get back to your desk," she barked.  "Don't let it happen again.  Next time I won't be so understanding."