“It ishighlyinconvenient.”
I knew he meant the wedding but I disregarded it, nonetheless. I expected a certain level of professionalism from Mr. Herring. His time in the business world was immeasurable and highly coveted. Everyone wanted to know what Mr. Herring knew.
But he was proving to be a pain today.
“I don't think you understand the gravity of the situation,” he continued. “We're sitting on hot coals with no water in sight. If we don't put out the embers now, we'll have a fire on our hands.”
“I don't think coddling an impatient client would bode well for us, Mr. Herring. Their impatience could be insight into their personality and that could be indicative of how they would do business with us.”
“I don't need your opinion on it, Levon. I just need your commitment.”
“I'm sorry, sir. I just don't think I have any wiggle room here. I'm sure you understand how important family is, especially with such huge life events as these.”
“I understand, but this is much more important, Levon.”
This is a once-in-a-lifetime event, I thought angrily.How you could possibly think a client is more important than my sister?
I clenched my fist. I was finding it more difficult to keep myself cool with my boss. As much as I wanted to be of service and keep my job, I didn't think it was fair to put my neck on the chopping block to test my allegiance.
It was maddening.
I unclenched my fist and ran my fingers through my hair.
“I understand this is important to you and to the company,” I expressed calmly. “But I won't be available until the end of the month for this trip.”
“This is a huge client, Levon.”
“I understand, sir.”
“Then, you understand the importance of sending you to get them signed with us. There's no other person who could possibly deliver a better presentation.”
I tried to smile but it ended up appearing as a grimace. “Of course, sir.”
“It would mean the world to me for you to fly out next week and get them hooked. This could mean a raise for everyone—including you.”
“I just can't miss this wedding. I already regret that I have to miss the family trip since I'll be in Canada during that time.”
“Well, you can skip the wedding and return for the family trip!”
I almost shouted at my boss but I knew better than that. Yelling wouldn't appeal to his sense of reason. It would only make him angry.
And then, he might fire me.
Would losing this job be the worst thing?I frowned at the thought.Just stick to the course. He'll relent eventually.
“I don't understand, Levon,” my boss said in a low voice. “You've never turned down a trip. Why is this one any different?”
“Because it's my sister.”
“I'm just confused here.”
I shook my head. “I don't see what's confusing about putting family first.”
“This has never been your behavior. Of all the years you've worked for us, you've always put the company first. Are you sure you're not ill? You can tell us anything, Levon. We can help you however we can.”
“No, sir, I'm not sick.”
“It's just odd to turn down such a lucrative trip. You can literally have anything up there. You can even bring a family member along if you like!”