Diana

15

The next morning, Diana snuck out through the back door again. She felt like a thief of her own life, but she had no other choice.

At the office everything was quiet and peaceful. Smith didn't leave his office until noon, when he came straight to her desk.

"Hy, Diana! Would you like to have lunch with me? There is a small restaurant nearby that I think you'll like. We'll have something to discuss too."

"Sure. I'll take my things and come."

The restaurant was indeed small. It only had 5 tables. All outside, with umbrellas that also had a cooling system for the customers. It was a pleasant place, where you could retire from the summer heat.

They sat down at a table, and after ordering the food, Smith got to the point.

"I've talked to the accounting this morning and you can go get your money for the rent. You have to mention the monthly amount to them so that they can prepare your money every month, from now on."

"All right. Thanks!"

"But that's not why I've called you here."

"Then what for?"

"I didn't say anything last night because, as you could see, it was not a business dinner. But I need an answer from you before we get to work. I need to know in advance if you have decided on your staying here."

"Honestly? I feel that I can bring my contribution, at least a little bit, in this company. And I like that. I like the people I work with and I think I would fit in perfectly here. So, my answer is yes. We can extend the employment contract."

"I also wouldn't want to do it again for a limited period of 2 years. Let's do it indefinitely. What do you say?"

"It's fine by me."

"Good. I'm glad. Now, what I want from you is to help me train the people from the other company too. You won't have to leave town. Everything will happen online. It's easier for everyone that way."

"Okay. No problem. That's why I came here. To help where and with whatever I can."

"I'm glad to hear that. We will have a meeting with both companies and we will establish then all the details. As for your contract, I'm going to ask you to stop by Jim at HR. He already has it ready for you. You just have to sign it."

Of course, she read her contract before signing it. She wasn't as naive as she wanted to look.

She sent a message to Jenny afterwards.

Step two is completed. I signed the employment contract for an indefinite period of time.

When she got home, Jason was waiting for her at the back door. Her heart stopped. She got out of the car, taking a deep breath, trying to calm her nerves. She was afraid of what she would hear from him and what she would have to say. But she had no way of turning back now.

Instead of greeting, Jason asked, "Why are you avoiding me?"

"I'm not avoiding you."

"Diana! Don't try to fool me because I'm not a fool." He said nervously.

"Do you want to come in? Or are we arguing here, where anyone can see us?"

Diana opened the door and let Jason enter before her.

Inside the apartment, her inner hell broke loose. She had to constantly swallow the lump in her throat so as not to burst in tears.

"What's going on, Diana?"