I think the expression is "by the short hairs"

Though I'd never use it, of course.

If you're checking back here with that previously-mentioned Friday assignment deadline in mind, curious to see where I'm going...

...well, so am I.

Despite assurances, neither job got back to me. Nor, at least according to the assignment database, has either one yet chosen someone else.

It's frustrating, and it certainly makes me want to say "well, fine. Screw 'em. I'll just --"

I'll just continue politely waiting for them to get back to me.

I mean, really; what else can I do?