Page 66 of The One That I Want

‘Bex, what is it?’

‘Why wasn’t I brought in on the decision to kill the advice column?’ she asks, finally meeting my eye.

‘Oh! Right, that,’ I say, relieved she isn’t resigning. ‘Well, it all happened so quickly. I made the discovery, then immediately escalated the matter to Anjali… It was decided in minutes – we didn’t really have time to bring you in.’

I don’t add that it wouldn’t have been her call if she’d disagreed with us, as that would just add salt to the wound – it’s clear she’s already doubting her role within the team hierarchy.

She scowls but remains silent.

‘I thought you’d be pleased that we pulled the column. You weren’t particularly happy with Poppy’s submission and?—’

‘You didn’t think it was any good either.’

‘To be fair, itdidneed work, but setting that aside, it was obvious you were annoyed that we brought on Poppy in the first place.’

‘Because you didn’t even consult me!’ she shouts.

I can tell the instant Bex realises she’s been disrespectful. ‘I’m so sorry – that was out of order. It’s just…’ She looks at her hands, which are clasped tightly in her lap. ‘You didn’t evendiscussit with me,’ she says quietly.

‘Discuss what exactly?’

‘Anyof it,’ she says, lifting her gaze. ‘I’m supposed to be the assistant editor ofNouveau Lifeand you keep making decisions without me. If you’d consulted me about Poppy, I would have voiced my concerns.I’mthe one who’s worked with her before.’

I nod slowly as Bex’s words register. I’m not sure what to say, because she’s right. I was Anjali’s assistant editor for years before the vertical – and she always consulted me on any major decisions that impacted the features department. Whereas, ever sinceNouveau Lifelaunched, I’ve been treating it as a solo gig, making unilateral decisions without conferring with my team. That’s got to end – and now. I make a silent vow to do better by Bex and the team.

While I’ve been self-reproaching, Bex’s eyes have glossed with tears. I quickly stand and slip around to the other side of the desk, where I crouch beside her. ‘Bex, I’m so sorry. You’re absolutely right. I’ve messed up – without question.’

‘I know I’m only twenty-six, but I’m clever and hard-working and I deserved this promotion,’ she says, still making her case even though I’ve already sided with her.

‘You are absolutely right – and I promise that from now on, I will discuss all decisions with you, and we’ll make them together, okay?’

She smiles and sniffles, dabbing under each eye with her fingertips. I reach for the box of tissues on my desk and she takes one.

After wiping her tears, she expels a long, slow breath, as if an enormous weight has been lifted from her chest. What a terrible boss I am for not realising what she was going through!

‘Right.’ She gets up, sniffles loudly, and tosses the used tissue away. ‘I should let you get back to your writing,’ she says, flashing me a warm smile, then heading to the door. ‘And which assignment is this?’ she asks, turning back. ‘I wasn’t aware you were working on anything.’

Mere seconds ago, I promised myself I’d do better by Bex and I’m about to break that promise already. ‘Oh, it’s just in the research stage, something Anjali wants me to look into. I’ll let you know if anything eventuates – I promise.’

‘Sounds good. Well, see ya.’

She goes and I lean against the desk, hating myself for the half-truth I’ve just told. How do I make amends forthat?

Perhaps a latte and a leafy outlook will give me a fresh perspective.Andif I happen to run into a certain friendly face at The Daily Grind, all the better!

18

GRETA

When I approach The Daily Grind, there’s a line out the door – great for the owner of a new business in the centre of London, not so great for a person who’s just admitted she messed up at work and wants to retreat to her favourite spot.

I join the queue, taking out my phone to mindlessly scroll through socials, like most of the people ahead of me. Only my mind can’t cope with even this simple task. I can’t believe I missed how discontented Bex has been. I really am a terrible boss. I adore Bex and she’s right – she’s clever and capable and I’ve been too focussed on other aspects ofNouveau Lifeto fully leverage her abilities and make her feel valued.

I know! Bex should edit my articles.

This would mean looping in yetanotherperson on my so-called ‘secret’ assignment, but it’s Bex. She’s trustworthy – and what’s one more person excavating the ruins of my love life?

I should ask Poppy to join us. If I want to show Bex I trust her unreservedly, she can learn the real reason we brought Poppy on. Hopefully, that will make amends and wipe the slate clean.

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