The Empty Cup

It is Pedro's first day. He gets a desk. He gets a laptop. Everyone goes to a meeting.

The desk is clean. There is one white cup. He thinks: maybe it is a gift. He is thirsty.

Pedro goes to the kitchen. He fills the cup with water. He sits down. A bearded man stands at the door.

"This was my desk before," he says. He smiles. "I am Diego. Welcome."

Pedro's face turns red. He gives the cup back. Diego laughs. "Keep it," he says. "But ask about the coffee machine."

Later, Diego shows him the coffee machine. It takes ten minutes.