Straight 'A' Student

Chapter 40

Thanksgiving was in the next couple of days and Summer really wanted to host for the first time in their home. She invited her friends, her parents, and Connor's family. They had invited Josh and Eleanor as well, but Eleanor's family was hosting back in Houston. Connor's family and Summer's parents were all flying in today. They had enough room in their house to have everyone stay which was bad and good, but they were hoping for the best.

"Summer" her boss, Ryland, said as he walked by her desk "can I talk to you for a second?"

"Sure, Mr. Smith" she followed him to his office. He opened the door and let her in first, closing the door behind them.

"How are you?"

"I'm well, how are you?"

"Good. So it hasn't been finalized yet, but we're going to be letting Gary go. Obviously don't say anything until we do, but I tell you this because I need someone to pick up his projects. I know you'll be spending time with family for the next few days but I want you to do it. I've been really impressed with your work, so I don't want you to think of this as a punishment. I just need someone reliable who will pick up on things quickly" Ryland explained.

"Um sure, when you say projects you mean his whole workload?"

"Yes, I know it's a big ask. It will come with a bonus on your next paycheck and a slight pay increase in your yearly salary. I do want you to familiarize yourself with them over the weekend to ensure a smoother transition".

"Okay, I can get that done".

"Perfect, Summer, thank you. HR will have your new contract with the updated salary by end of day. Just sign it by Monday morning".

"You're welcome. Can I ask why he's being let go?"

"He made some unsavory remarks towards a handful of coworkers. That's all I can say about it".

"Hm, okay".

"IT will transfer his files and things as soon as we meet with him, until then just focus on your work" Ryland told her.

"Got it" Summer nodded and left his office.

"What happened?" Faith asked as she sat down.

"It's on the down low, but Gary's getting fired for quote 'unsavory remarks towards coworkers'. Ryland asked me to take over his workload".

"His workload, that's a lot".

"I know. He said he was impressed with my work, I couldn't say no" Summer groaned a little.

"No you couldn't. Starting when?"

"Wants me to get familiar over the weekend".

"Jeez, your family's in town right?"

"They will be. I'll be busy, but I'm very determined to make this dinner successful and impress his mother".

"God, I'm sorry. That was terrible of him to ask of you over a holiday. Speaking of, it's your family and his this time?"

"Yup. All staying at the house".

"Yikes, girl. At least if things get hectic you can use work as an excuse to lock yourself in your office" Faith said and they laughed together.

"That is true. What about you?"

"He flies in tonight and we drive out to my parents tomorrow night after I get off".

"That's cute. How far is your parents?"

"Three hours. So not too bad".

"Definitely, well I hope you enjoy your thanksgiving, Faith".