Display Fish

Today’s the day. I got up and gathered everyone’s work. This will make or break Thomas Crowne. I took a deep breath and headed out the door. If this goes well, I’ll be free.

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9:00 a.m.

I told Damon my plan. He blinked in shock.

“And you’re sure you want to do this?” my manger asked.

“Yes,” I said. “I’ve thought about this for some time. I feel it’s time for me to move on. There’s nothing for me here with you guys.” Damon looked like he didn’t know how to take this.

“Wow,” he said. “Okay… Uh… You sure?”

“Yes,” I said. “My mind is made up.”

“Have you found your replacement yet?”

“I have a few ideas.”

“Okay.”

“Thank you.” I turned and walked out of Damon’s office.

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10:15 a.m.

I walked through the building, looking for a potential replacement. I could only think of two. After a short mental debate, I made my choice.

I walked up to Anna’s desk. I waited while she was on the phone. I leaned forward, smiling. She turned and saw me. Anna jumped in her seat.

“Oh!” she said. “Noiz, it’s you.” Anna turned to the phone.

“Could you hold on for a sec?” she asked. I waited the whole time.

“Did you want something?” she asked.

“Got a minute?” I asked. My work friend blinked.

“Why?” she whispered.

“I just wanted to talk,” I said. “It won’t take long.” Anna’s eyes shifted back and forth.

“Okay…” she said.

“Finish your call first,” I said in a low voice. “Then we’ll talk.” Anna nodded uneasily as she resumed her call.

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10:37 a.m.

Anna and I met on the roof.

“You wanted to see me?” she asked.

“Do you see yourself as a leader?” I asked. Anna gave me a confused look.

“What?” she asked.

“Do you see yourself as a leader?”

“I… I don’t know.”

I gave her a gentle smile. “No. That isn’t good enough. You have to stand and deliver.”

Anna blinked. “What is this? Why are you saying thing?”

I took head by the hands. “I’m leaving Thomas Crowne.” Anna’s eyes widened.

“What?!” she cried. “When?”

“After the project sells.”

“Why?”

I lowered my shoulders. “It’s time for me to move on. There’s nothing for me here anymore.”

“But… Who will be group leader when you leave?”

“You.”

She shook her head. “Oh no, I can’t.”

“I think you can. You write beautifully. I have seen your work. I have faith in you.”

“But… Me as a leader?” Anna asked.

“Yes,” I said. “At least consider it?” Anna bit her lower lip and lowered her eyes.

“Alright…” she said. I pulled her into a hug.

“Thank you,” I whispered. Anna didn’t seem to want to let go.

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Noon.

The collection was sent off. There. It’s done. But not yet. The sales have to come in first. If this collection doesn’t sell, I will be stuck there forever.

I shook my head.

Don’t think like that. Everyone gave it their all. Even lazy Rolo did his best. His short story was actually… pretty good. I was impressed. Yeah, we should be fine. All I have to do is wait.

Oh boy…

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-Three Weeks Later-

It sold! It kinds selling too. But, can’t celebrate yet. The numbers have to be stable first.

I guess I could give it three more weeks to be safe. Yeah, that should work. I can wait much longer.

Right…

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-One Month Later-

I smile to myself.

The numbers are in. I am free to go.