The fire alarm continued to sound, creating a ringing in Steve’s ears. He was irritated, standing outside in the heat. Firefighters were running into the building with axes, looking around the building and talking to other faculty members.
One was making his way into the building when Steve stood in front of his path. “How long is this going to take? I have very important—”
“Move aside,” the firefighter said.
This infuriated Steve; he stood shocked. Some students overheard. Their mouths hung open with a look of glee. This did not escape Steve, adding further embarrassment and anger.
“Typical working-class rudeness,” huffed Steve loudly. “I hope you die in a fire.”
The firefighter was long gone by then.
Steve stomped off, fuming as he went. People often wondered why he reacted to thin
