CHAPTER 4 – TERMS AND CONDITIONS
297 Words
“Alright,” Daniel said, straightening. “Let’s be clear about something.”
Abbey gave him her full attention.
“This position is temporary,” he continued. “One month. I’ll be back after my vacation.”
Abbey nodded. “I understand.”
“But,” he added, “temporary doesn’t have to stay temporary.”
That made her pause.
He continued, “If you do well, there’s always room in a place like this.”
Abbey’s grip tightened slightly around her notebook.
“I intend to do well.”
“I figured,” Daniel said.
He moved around the desk, picking up his jacket.
“You’ll be using this office while I’m gone,” he said. “Everything you need is here. Access codes, files, systems.”
Abbey looked around again.
It felt real now.
Not just a chance.
A position.
Daniel hesitated for a second, then added...
“One more thing.”
Abbey looked back at him.
“This office runs on professionalism,” he said carefully. “Mr. Lawson doesn’t tolerate distractions. Especially personal ones.”
Abbey frowned slightly. “I’m here to work.”
“Good,” Daniel said. “Keep it that way.”
There was something more behind that statement.
Unspoken.
But clear.
He checked his watch.
“You can take your lunch break now,” he said. “Be back within the hour.”
Abbey nodded.
“And Abbey...”
She looked up.
“My vacation starts Wednesday,” he added. “That gives you two days to catch up properly.”
“I will.”
“I hope so.”
Then he walked out.
Leaving her alone in the office.
Abbey sat down slowly.
Ran her fingers lightly across the desk.
This was hers.
Even if only for now.
- Writer
