“Nevertheless, I don’t feel good about having them in my paycheck.”
Rex sighs. “We can call it advance PTO, if you like?”
I nod. “Okay. That works.”
“That’s not what I called you to talk about,” Rex says, checking his notifications. He rises. “Staff meeting starting now. I’ll explain it there.”
“Right.” I nod multiple times, then I follow him into the glass conference room. Most of the other staff are already sitting there, all glowing skin and professional designer clothes.
I pull out a chair. It feels too comfortable, almost excessive. How much padding does this chair have?
“Water?” Valerie holds up a pitcher. Lime slices and ice bob in the water.
My chest tightens. Jason and I were so proud when we managed to collect water in coconut shells.
Do my colleagues appreciate how lucky they are? The thought rises through my mind, and I try to squash it. I wouldn’t wish what we’d experienced on them. I don’t want to start acting self-righteous.
Rex clears his throat, and I realize Valerie is extending a glass of water toward me.
I reach for it hastily, unsure how long I’ve been out of it. “Sorry.”
“You had a big adventure,” Rex says, but worry flickers over his face.
Maybe he doesn’t think I’m up for this job.
Maybe he’s right.
So far all I’ve told him is that I can’t do the one assignment I was supposed to do.
“I’ll be better,” I promise.
“Let’s go over assignments for the week,” Rex says.
“I can pick up some of Cal’s work,” Valerie says. “Since he’s still... adjusting.”
“Thank you,” Rex says. “That might be useful.”
Surely, he’s not planning to fire me or something. Is he? I hope he isn’t. Have I already failed?
Valerie’s lips curl. I doubt I’m imagining she’s after my job.
“I’m sorry it’s taking me a while to adjust,” I blurt out.
Valerie’s lips swerve up further, then she jerks her head away.
“Cal, I’m assigning you an exclusive televised interview,” Rex says.
Everyone’s jaw drops.
Including mine.
“Excuse me?” I blink. I must have misheard him.
That’s the only reason.
Or he misspoke.
Because I’m sure he wouldn’t give a rookie reporter the chance to interview someone on television.
