December 16th | Atlanta, Georgia
"No, thank you so much, Mrs. Braddock. Don't be shy to let me know if I can help you with anything esle, okay? Happy Holidays!" Faye said and let the lady hang up the phone.
Just as she was about to get up and go to the bathroom, there was a knock on her door. "It's open!" she said.
In came the big man on campus, her boss. She'd totally forgot she had a meeting with him today.
She plastered a smile on her face and stood up from behind her desk. "Goodmorning, Mr. Smith," she said holding her hand out for a handshake. The man took her hands in his and shook it.
"Goodmorning, Ms. Chandler. I hope you're having a pleasant day so far. I understand you've been here for a while already," he chuckled. "Yes sir, I have. And I am having a fairly pleasant day. What brings you by today?" she asked.
"Why, I just would like to discuss your success rates and see how you're feeling in your position. When you're one of us, you can get used to having these 1 on 1's," the man explained.
"Okay, well, should I be worried about my success rates? To my knowledge, they looked good," Faye sat down in the chair beside him and swiftly crossed her legs.
"Ms. Chandler, worry shouldn't enter your mind. And good isn't a word to use in this case.Your rates are exceptional; the best in Atlanta. I feel as if this conversation if getting a bit repetitive," he playfully said, putting a smile on Faye's face. "I mean, nothing but success follows you. I want you to keep up the good work. This job isn't easy by a long shot, so I'm truly honored to have someone such as you working beside me. I love the pride and determination you display in your work, and the drive you have as such a young woman. Perhaps, today I've come to thank you," he added.
"Well...Mr. Smith, I am at a loss for words. I truly do appreciate your kind words and support. I honestly just come everyday and give it my all. So...I appreciate the fact you see me," Faye displayed her gratitude.
Faye had worked hard for the position she was in. She just appreciated the fact that they saw her work and it didn't go unnoticed.
"Well, you are very welcome, Ms. Chandler. Now as far as your position, are you comfortable? Are there any adjustments that you would like? Speak now or forever hold your peace," Smith joked, making Faye chuckle. "I'm serious. Not everyone has the privileges you have, and that's because they don't put in the work you put in."
***
Faye walked into her parents' house after letting herself in. She kicked off her Dolce & Gabana slingback pumps and and removed her favorite Coach jacket.
She picked her bag back up and made her way to the kitchen where her parents were occupied with showing affection to one another and cooking's
"Wassup, Munckin!" her dad greeted her, walking over to give her a hug. "Hi, Daddy," she smiled and embraced him in a hug as he approached her. "You always gotta get the first hug. Hi, Baby," Fatima said coming after Derek.
"Because she's my baby," Derek said, grabbing plates from the cabinet.
"Whatever. How are you today?" Fatima asked. "I'm great. Busy day at work, but still really good. How are y'all?" she asked.
