Page 9 of I Am Salvation

He peruses them—or pretends to. Marcus said that Rod, Lund, and Lopez are all well aware of the issue.

And they don’t care.

Rather, they don’t want to sacrifice the almighty dollar for the chance that somewhere along the line, some guests who pay top dollar to stay at this resort might be inconvenienced.

I try to keep a disgusted look off my face.

“These are very well done, Diana,” he finally says. “However, I am sure you are aware of how much of a financial investment this would take.”

I swallow. “I’m aware.”

“We’re working on a budget.”

I have to hold back a scoff. “I understand.”

“And chances are that nothing will happen.”

“I understand that as well.”

“So I’m not going to recommend any changes to the client.” He hands the sketches back to me. “But I truly do appreciate your thoroughness.”

I blink. “Thank you.”

I’d like to tell him off, but that’s not really the best thing to do when it’s my second day on the job.

“What projects will I be working on, then?” I ask.

He clasps his hands together. “I think perhaps we could use you on this project, Diana, if you’re still interested.”

Good question. Am I still interested? Do I want my name attached to a project that has a flaw that I know about?

“Actually,” I say, “I think I might like to try something different. The first project you showed me yesterday—the mixed-use development project. I love the idea of vertical farming, and I believe my experience growing up on a ranch would lend itself well to the effort.”

“That’s an interesting take, Diana,” he says, his eyebrows raising. “I must admit, I didn’t foresee that. But your background might indeed bring a fresh perspective to the project.”

“Yes, I believe I can contribute significantly.”

Rod nods and pauses a moment. “I’ll see about getting you assigned to that project,” he says finally. “In the meantime, continue orienting yourself with our other projects as well.”

“I will.” I rise. “Thank you for considering my request, Rod.”

“Of course, Diana.” He offers me a smile that doesn’t quite reach his eyes. “You’re part of the team now. We value your input.”

I return his smile politely before exiting his office. The moment I’m out of his sight, however, my mask of professionalism slips off. Disappointment and frustration well inside me.

Rod’s dismissal of my concerns about the mountaintop project sits heavy in my gut, even though I expected it after talking to Marcus. Perhaps shortcuts are the norm here. Do I have to accept it without question? I’m the newbie, so for now, I suppose I do. I’ll try to keep my eyes open and learn more. Maybe I’ll find a way to sway Rod’s opinion or take my concerns to someone with a more receptive ear. Though according to Marcus, they all already know.

As much as I love the mountaintop project, I’m better off focusing on the vertical farming project.

On my way back to my desk, I stop by the restroom again. This time, I’m silently grateful for the absence of any voices emerging from the stalls. I check myself in the mirror and adjust my ponytail. I promise myself this will be a good day regardless of Rod’s response.

Back at my desk, I pull up the mixed development files on my computer. It’s an exciting project, and I believe I can offer some insight on it.

But instead of excited, I feel sick inside.

Because I know what I have to do.

And it’s not going to be easy or pretty.

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