“Vertical scalability!” they said, enthusiastically. They’re always very enthusiastic.

Borland understands their desire to save floorspace, but he’s pretty sure stacking cubes like interlocking Lego isn’t the way. He doesn’t envy Stoneberg, who now needs a stepladder to reach his desk. But he also wishes Stoneberg’s crotch weren’t right at eye level.

That crotch is being adjusted vigorously right now; Borland looks away quickly, then jerks back as Stoneberg’s chair rolls over a crucial report. January’s shredded.

Borland grips the pieces tightly, resisting the urge to wad them down Stoneberg’s throat. Soon, he thinks, calming himself. Soon, Accounts Receivable will pay.