Page 103 of Hello Quarterback

MIA

I wentinto my office on Monday, a slight smile on my lips. Ford had spent last night at my place, and I’d never slept better than I did in his arms. I was happy to dive into my next project, a week-long orientation for the team at Andersen Avenue.

My life was great. I had the man of my dreams, parents who loved me, friends I could count on, and the best team.

What could go wrong?

My speaker crackled, and I heard Vanover say, “Look sharp.”

Straightening, I looked through the glass wall, seeing Thomas walking toward my office, a cream envelope in his hand. Before he could knock, I waved him in and gestured at the chair across from me.

“To what do I owe the visit?” I asked. Pleasure would be taking it too far. “I have a meeting with Tallie in fifteen minutes, so I can’t chat too long.”

“This will be quick,” Thomas said, not sitting down. He passed me the letter with my name printed on the front.

Taking the bait, I opened the envelope and pulled out the page. Flattening it on my desk, I read the words inside.

To whom it may concern:

Please consider this my official resignation. I am available and willing to work until one month from today, with emphasis placed on finding and training the next CFO. However, according to current company policies, I understand my position expires upon this notice.

Regards,

Thomas Weatherford

I lookedup from the page, watching him. “You’re leaving?” I said, trying not to look too happy. I thought I’d be dealing with him forever.

“You’re a terrible actress,” he replied, disdain clear in his tone.

I stood to face him. “Look, Thomas, I know we’ve had our disagreements in my tenure as CEO, but I do hope you’ve found a better fit.”

“I have,” he replied, lifting his chin. “Although we may not hold much warmth for each other, I have dedicated nearly a decade to this company. Please let me know if there’s anything I can do to help with this transition.”

My heart warmed to him, even if only a little. “I appreciate that. I’ll have Vanover call security to escort you out.”

He nodded, extended his hand. “Good luck, Mia.”

I dipped my head in acknowledgment and shook his hand. At this point, I realized it wasn’t worth it to hold on to anger or resentment toward him. We were on different tracks in life, and it was good that we were heading in different directions.

Vanover had security in shortly, and I stood beside Van while we watched Thomas walking out.

Once the elevator doors closed, Vanover leaned over and said, “My red flag is that I think I could have changed him.”

I bumped his shoulder. “My beige flag is that I think you could have.”

He grinned over at me. “I’ll send Tallie in when she arrives.”

“Thank you,” I said and went back into my office.

I imagined working with a new CFO, someone as supportive as Tallie or Vanover.

A knock sounded on the glass, and I turned to see Vanover letting Tallie inside. “Hey,” I said to her, smiling warmly.

“Hi,” she said. But she seemed stiff.

I looked at her hands. They seemed emptier than usual. “What? Only one folder today?”

The door closed behind her, and she nodded stiffly, passed me her folder. This was beginning to feel a lot like déjà vu.

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