One Key Problem

(I’m the front-desk administrator, signing-in a visitor who has just arrived for an interview. The deputy head, who looks young and wears casual clothes to cycle in the mornings, comes in to borrow a set of keys.)

Deputy: “Morning, [My Name].”

(The deputy reaches over the counter for the keys.)

Visitor: “EXCUSE ME! You do not interrupt. You should have respect. Don’t speak to an adult like that. And don’t even think about answering back. Do you think you can take those keys without permission? What do you say?”

Deputy: “I say whatever I feel like.” *tosses keys into a pocket and walks inside*

(Visitor continues muttering as he takes his seat in the waiting area. Minutes later, the deputy, now wearing work attire, and assistant, come to take him for interview.)

Deputy: “[Deputy], Deputy head. Now, you can talk to me however you desire, but if that was any clue to how you plan to treat my students, then we have a serious problem.”