She came over and spoke to me very coldly about planning a transition by the end of the month. Did not even look me in the eye. I told her I was too busy doing things that actually made money for the company and had no time for distractions right now. Later, when I had time, I would revert. She said something abusive in a Chinese type language and went away.

Einstein 2—Jenny 1 (Full Time Score)

5.15 p.m.

Just saw Dominic get off the phone with somebody. He looks very upset. No idea what. He hasn’t discussed with anyone else.

07 June 2007

8.32 p.m.

Remember James Mair the over-enthusiastic bastard on the Dufresne team?

It gives me great pleasure to inform you that he continues to be a bastard of the most highest order.

Today during a meeting with Rahul Gupta, Hassan asked if anyone was looking at Lederman’s compliance, regulation and legal departments. Nobody was. Rahul looked like he was in two minds about suggesting a quick analysis. But then before anyone could say anything our hero, Param Vir Chakra James Mair, offered to do a three-day deep dive study with a two-man team. Rahul looked unconvinced. He said he didn’t see the point in investing so much time. James then offered to do a two-day two-man study.

Outwardly I was looking calm and composed and enthusiastic. Inside I was dying. What idiot negotiates with a boss to get more work? What kind of moron increases the work he has to do? I can understand that happening if we were looking at important divisions of Lederman like sales, marketing, strategy, innovation, succession planning, culture and leadership development.

But legal and compliance and nonsense like that? Bloody fool James.

Finally Rahul agreed to a one-day three-man study to finish off all three departments. James asked for two volunteers. Hassan had to volunteer because it was his original idea. Then Carlos began to show interest. I also showed interest by leaning forward and pretending as if I was going to ask questions. And then I kicked Carlos under the table. He immediately volunteered. I shrugged my shoulders and made a big deal of being too slow to respond.

But then Carlos was working on some ultra-shitty assignment of tabulating all of Lederman’s administrative expenses. Rahul told me to do that while Carlos was busy. James Mair and team left office at 5.45 p.m.

My stupid spreadsheet took till 8.00 p.m. So even when I manage to avoid it slyly, Mair’s enthusiasm has a tendency to come and bite me in the ass.

10.07 p.m.

Still no sign of Dominic. Apparently there has been some family emergency and Dominic has gone back home.

I hope all is well with him. Dominic doesn’t seem like the kind of chap who handles crisis very well.

10 June 2007

8.19 p.m.

Fresh instalment of 16,000 pounds came into the bank account today.