At the data-entry company where I work, the other operators and I share a coffeepot. One morning I took it into the ladies' room to fill it with water. Then I began preening in the mirror, brushing my hair and reapplying some makeup.

I didn't realize how long I'd been untiil someone slid a note under the door.

"You win," it read. "Any ransom demand will be met. Just release the coffeepot."