Nigel's lunch time was usually spent with Richard Norland in his office. They would eat whatever they ordered from GrubHub or Doordash while discussing the firm or music ( they both enjoyed classical music) or musical theatre or ballet or books. Sometimes it still surprised him how much he had in common with his employer.
Today he chose to go out for his hour lunch break. The office was too eerily quiet without Richard anyway. It was odd how much he missed the man's presence. Although he should probably get used to missing him since he would soon not be working there. Which reminded him, he thought as he took the crowded Metro train over to an elegant building he knew fairly well because he had chose one of the condos inside for his employer. He still needed to call the employment agency about replacing himself in Richard's office. Some would think it strange him doing it but he considered it a duty and a privilege and a honor to take care of the man. It was going to be one of the last things he ever did for Richard Norland and he wanted to make sure his replacement was everything he or she needed to be.
As he had the doorman Wilbur call upstairs to Richard's condo to alert him Nigel was downstairs in the lobby, he fidgeted in an unusual manner and paced about the elaborate main entrance. Was he alright? , he worried. He could not remember one day the man had ever missed work. He could not remember him ever being sick. Even during the pandemic. Richard was the strongest and healthiest man he was privileged to know.
If he was sick who was taking care of him?
" Mr. Hawthorne - Cyrus? ," Wilbur said in a crisp voice that seemed oddly hesitant.
" Yes ? So I can go up now? "
The doorman shook his head at Nigel , saying," I'm afraid not, young man. Mr. Norland was very clear that he did not wish to see you. "
Nigel shook his head slightly. " Wait. So he doesn't want to see anyone right now? Is he that sick? What exactly did he say? "
" Young man, his exact words were" I do not ever want to see that man Nigel Hawthorne - Cyrus again " . In fact he asked me to tell you to return to the office and pack up your belongings. " The man fell silent for a long pause. Then he spoke again with an undertone of regret. " Mr. Norland told me to inform you he was terminating your employment with him and his firm. I'm sorry, young man. "
YOU ARE READING
ODDS OF LOVE : What You See
General FictionSeason Two of Odds of Love continues with Spencer and his husband DuBuis and their family and friends dealing with the dynamics of family, friendship, insecurities and the challenges of life while still remaining loyal to love.
