manipulation

Yesterday in my ethics class we were talking about politicking and manipulation.

At the break, I decided I wanted a snack. Being on the 10th floor, I had no idea how to acquire one. I gathered up some coins for a vending machine, and mosied into the hallway.

There was nothing anywhere indicating any food was available for purchase. But in a moment of brilliance, and inspired by current class discussion, I decided I should ask my buddy Kevin for a little assistance.

Me (sauntering up to 10th floor's security desk where Kevin sat eating): "Hi there."
Kevin: "Hello baby. What can I do for you?"
Me: "Does this floor have a vending machine?"
Kevin: "Only soda."
Me (disappointedly) : "Aww man."
Kevin: "Why? Whatchoo need girl?"
Me: "I just want a snack."
Kevin: "What kinda snack?"
Me (not realizing implications of word choice) : "Chocolate."
Kevin: "Tell you what. You watch my food, I'll be right back." (He stands up.) "You like caramel?"
Me: "Yup!"
Kevin: "You like Caramello?"
Me: "Mmm! Yup!"
Kevin: "How bout a Milky Way?"
Me: "Yup!"
Kevin: "Aight, aight. Watch my food."
Me: "I'll guard it with my life." (He disappears around the corner.)

At this point, I turned to Libby, who stood next to me laughing in disbelief. "He's SO gonna hook me up right now."

A moment later, with the familiar rhythmic clank of his populated key ring, Kevin returned with the promised Caramellos and Milky Ways - two of each.

Kevin: "Here you go girl."
Me: "Wow! Thank you!!"
Kevin: "Mm-hmm. You welcome, you welcome. Don't tell anybody."

Do I feel bad about taking advantage of Kevin for chocolate? Not really. I didn't know he had a secret stash. Do I feel like I should be a little nicer to him now? Not necessarily. Playing hard to get is likely to produce further confectionary results in the future. :)

(I know, I know. I'm horrible.)