Page 61 of Stick to the Plan
Face the Music
Brianna
Ihate to admit when I’m wrong, but I have to give it to the girls. It is really hard to be sad in the tropics with gorgeous views. And gorgeous men. Can’t remember the last time I just sat for a week with no responsibilities. I feel refreshed and ready to plan the next phase of my life.
After opening up to the girls, I feel like a burden has been lifted. While Nic was busy working, I did some more self reflecting. I also had a few video sessions with my therapist to discuss how my neurotic planning tendencies are just my anxiety and abandonment trauma working overtime. It will take years to fully believe it. But intellectually, I understand that it wasn’t my job to make my parents love me.
At almost thirty, it’s time to live for myself. There will most likely never be a day that I don’t over-think things - that’s my job after all - but I am done planning my life to fit anyone’s expectations besides my own. So far, my new philosophy is going remarkably well. I’ve even gotten onboard with this speed dating event Anna came up with while Nic and I were away.
Serves us right for not taking her with us.
It won’t be all bad, I get to spend more time at the restaurant. If this is successful, we can branch out to other events. Maybe even a book club. I smile to myself as I sit by my pool, curled up with my dog andPersuasionby Jane Austen. I’ve already refreshed my resume and reached out to a few head hunters I trust. With the income from Pop, though, I can take my time finding the perfect opportunity.
Miss Musgrove is just about to jump from the rocks when my cell buzzes on the table by my lounger. Sighing at the interruption, I place my bookmark before answering the phone.
“Is this Brianna Chance?” A woman’s voice asks, prim and professional.
“Yes, it is. What is this regarding?”
“This is Miranda Barker from C.A.E. Human Resources department.” I sit up straighter and swing my legs off the lounger, suddenly at attention. “Mr. Stone informed us of your resignation but there is some paperwork we need you to fill out. There’s also the matter of your exit interview. Can you come in this afternoon? Say two o’clock?”
I glance at my watch, it’s only 11 AM now. “Yes, I can make that work. Should I ask for you at reception?”
“Just give them your name and someone will direct you. Thank you for your cooperation, Ms. Chance.” With a chipper farewell, the line disconnects.
Heaving myself off the lounger with a sigh, I head back into the house for a shower. As I walk, I shoot off a group message.
Breehive
I need to push our lunch to happy hour. HR called and I need to sign forms at C.A.E.
LettyGo
What do you think that’s about? Happy hour sounds great though - I’ll be at Pop whenever you get done.
Annabanana
No worries, sugar. I’ll be here - I mean, I live here. Literally.
Breehive
Probably should have expected this sooner. Exit interviews are standard. Plus I technically never handed in my badge.
LettyGo
Boo. We’ll have a drink waiting for you at the bar.
Annabanana
Then we can finish planning Friday’s speed dating!
LettyGo
Double boo.
Chuckling at my friends’ antics, I set about making a quick lunch and getting ready for my meeting with HR.
Taking a deep, steadying breath, I pull the handle on the front doors to C.A.E. and stare down at the elevator bank. It’s time to face the music. Rage quitting had felt amazing, but it hadn’t been the most professional choice. R&D is not as big of an industry as you’d think, and word gets around about difficult employees.
