[ WP ] `` I 'm sorry , but the thing you were looking for is sold out . ''

`` I am sorry but the thing you were looking for is sold out. You can place an order for a new one, we're expecting to take delivery of new stock early next week,'' the smug reply hung in the air. 
 
 `` Are you sure you have nothing in the back store room, an old display model maybe? It's for my wife, she needs it, I'm good for it, I can pay in installments taking a few months. This is the seventh place I have been to, please can you just check for me? Next week will be too late.'' 
 
 `` I assure you sir, we have no others left, quite frankly it was irresponsible of you to let your warranty policy lapse, I have very little sympathy for you,'' the vendor dripped contempt in palpable tones. `` You never considered what would happen if her guarantee became void? Disgraceful.'' 
 
 `` What about a trade in? Mine for hers just until you restock?'' 
 
 `` Now that would be a tradeable commodity, are you sure you'd be willing to risk it, what if you were in an accident?'' The merchant pushed his long fingers together to form an arch, he affected an air of pious humility before continuing on, `` I do not know that I would be able to have such a thing on my conscience.'' 
 
 `` Please, I know you have contacts, take my soul for my wives on a payment plan.'' 
 
 `` Oh very well, sign here, here and here and initial here. Your wife should be feeling the effects of her refurbishment before the blood is dried on the parchment. Off you go, see you next week for your first payment, one month of vitality in lieu of cash.'' 
 
 As the man stepped out of the small shop on the main street his demeanour changed from desperate act to confident swindler, his phone rang in his pocket, he grinned before sliding to unlock and taking the call. `` Yes sweet heart, how are you feeling?'' He nodded, pausing to listened then replied to the callers question `` A three month quota, how did you get on at *Souls Sold*? That's fantastic, yes I have one more to hit up before I get home and I thought I'd stop in at the bar for a quick one before I headed back okay?'' 
 
.................................................... 
 
 Outside of a run down bar stocked with watery beer and rotgut alcohol the Soul Trader leaned over the homeless man who had asked him for change, they had been conversing in whispers for awhile but occasionally sentences became audible to a casual listener, or would have if there had been any about. 
 
 `` I know times are hard for you but if you truly would sell your soul for a drink then I will buy you every drink behind the bar, tell me what you desire, all I require is a small trade, you wo n't even miss it, just sign it over to me now.'' 
 
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 -020 
 

