"Here's your application, sir." Eyes blank, hand out-stretched.

"Me?" No response. Hand to paper, pen to hand.

Name of Applicant:

V-I-N-E

"Darn,"

Erase it and begin again.

Start from scratch.

V-I-N-C-E-N-T L-A-W

Perfect.

"Here," Relief washes over, mending trembling fingers.

"Thank you, sir. We'll get back to you," Vacant voice and vapid eyes, smoke and mirrors, reflect your own fear.

"Thank you."

No response.

No hope.