Page 6 of No Such Thing as Serendipity
I pushed my mouse a little harder than I intended to activate my computer. At least this gave me something to do other than stare at Nancy’s shocked expression. I’d keep it professional. Despite her years of loyal service, I wouldn’t let her see my pain and how deeply Terrence’s betrayal cut me. Nobody would.
“I don’t want to be here without you,” Nancy blurted out.
Her words warmed me, but I wouldn’t tell her. “Very well. I’ll ask for a generous severance package for you.”
“But...” She let out a loud sigh. “I don’t understand.”
I looked up at her and flipped my wrist, hoping it came off carefree. “It’s how the equity game is played. He’s selling to MetaForce.”
“But you were supposed to take over. Isn’t that why you were meeting?” Her big brown eyes filled with tears. “Did you know about this?”
The part of me wanting to save face considered telling her I suspected or wasn’t surprised. She’d believe anything I told her. Would she feel betrayed by me?
So I didn’t have to look at her, I opened my email and clicked the icon to compose a new message. “While I had greater expectations, I’ve been in this game long enough to understand nothing is certain.”Nailed it.It was a perfect face-saving answer.
“What is wrong with you?”
Her loud voice drew me away from my computer screen. I hadn’t expected the mixture of rage and pain on her face.
“Shouting will do no good in this situation.” My voice was smooth. I was proud of the ice water in my veins.
She stared at me for several seconds before she said, “How can you be so calm?”
Good thing she couldn’t see my drenched undershirt. I’d have to wring it out when I undressed, or perhaps I’d just throw it out. “I won’t let circumstances dictate my response. I’m in control. Now if you don’t mind, I’d like to compose an email to Terrence, letting him know of your intentions as the sale proceeds.” I met her gaze. “When should I inform him your last day worked will be?”
Her expression hardened, which was unusual for her. “Are you serious? That’s all you have to say?”
I took my hand off the mouse and leaned back in my chair. She deserved better, but I didn’t know how to give her more. I wanted to get the hell out of here, and Nancy was impeding me. “I understand you’re upset, but—”
“Aren’t you?” she interrupted me, something else she never did.
“My feelings are immaterial.” I turned back to my computer screen. “I’ll email Terrence and then pack a few belongings totake with me. Once I’m gone, could you have someone box up the rest of my belongings and have them sent to me?”
She steeled her jaw. “I’ll do it.”
Damn her.Why couldn’t she make this easy? “There’s no need for you to do that.”
“I want to.”
Her steely gaze told me not to argue, so I nodded. “Very well. Thank you. Now if you don’t mind, I’d like to get this email sent.”
She stood and shuffled out of my office without another word. While she deserved better, I had nothing to give. I turned back to my email.
I kept it simple.
Terrence,
In my haste, I forgot to inquire about your intentions for my personal assistant, Nancy Stern.
After speaking with her, she is not prepared to stay once MetaForce acquires Fortitude. HR will have to work with her on her final date.
I request that she be well compensated for her loyal service. I ask that Fortitude provide her with a $5 million severance package.
If Fortitude is unwilling to honor that request, I ask that you deduct the $5 million from my package and funnel it to Ms. Stern. The only stipulation is she’s never informed of this arrangement. I will sign whatever documents Martin requires for this to happen.
Blake Saunders
I stared at the screen, liking my cool detachment. I was back in control after my momentary lapse in his office. These sons of bitches wouldn’t see me sweat. I chuckled as I adjusted my sweat-soaked bra.Nope.They’d never see it.
