“Soâ€?

“So what?â€?

It was clear that Tom didn’t want to discuss the subject right now.

“Well, did you find out yet? They got in touch?â€? Jacob said with a hint of excitement in his voice. It wasn’t everyday that you got called after all.

Tom looked down to his shoes, his latest indulgence. “What if they did?â€? he let out after a few moments. His eyes shot up to meet Jacob’s. “You’d want in?â€?

Jacob was young, that was sure. But Tom had never realized how young Jacob was behind the soot and weathered hair. It was one thing to act professionally when you where on the clock, but it was harder to keep up appearances when the next few words could get you out of the mines.

An awkward silence formed while Jacob formulated his answer.

Tom hated these moments.

“Don’t fret kiddo, you were part of the dealâ€?

Jacob’s eyes lit. “you… you went to bat for me?â€?

Tom made his way out of the room.

“No…They asked for youâ€?

In that instant, Jacob wished he’d never met Tom.