MY NAME IS DALE

MY NAME IS DALE- CHAPTER 9

"Good evening guys. How's everyone?" I casually said to light up their faces.

They just replied with a smile. Seeing their smiling faces gives me encouragement and a feeling of fulfillment.

"We'll, I can guarantee your smile that you're all fine though tired. Don't worry; I'll have a pizza delivery tonight. Before anything else, I would like to commend everyone for a good and fast progress of the magazine since day
one. The shots were all perfect and I've seen a great improvement in your skills and professionalism. I just pray that I will have you until the end." I
said and they all responded with applause.

"Tonight, I would like to bring up this topic and I hope to hear an honest opinion and decision from all of you. Please don't consider me as your team leader. Consider yourself if you still can do this." I slowly said.

"Why? Do we have any problem Dale?" my secretary asked.

"It's not like that. Actually it is not a problem. It's just a matter of choice and decision making. I know you're all aware that I have a private meeting with the CEO of the READS COMPANY. They are planning to invest money with us. In exchange, they would like us to take charge of all their publicity materials especially their monthly magazines." I explained.

"So, what's the problem?" one of my photographer asked.

"The problem is that we aren't done with the magazine of Mr. Chin, the one we're currently working. I know we're all hard working here but I don't want to
stress and load you too much. Honestly, I'm not favor to our very late overtime. I'm just thankful because we are all single here and we can go home anytime we
like. But, can we do two things simultaneously? " I said to them.

"Can I say something, Dale?" one of my photographers asked.

"Of course, go ahead." I replied.

"You know we've been together for four years, right? Working with this certain job is really stressful, I admit that. But because I've seen how competitive and passionate you are, I learned to embrace and love it no matter how stressful it's environment. You're aware that this is my first job and I know I couldn't last for
this long if not for your dedication and encouragement to us. You're positivity helped us all to work together and your camaraderie to the team is such a
wonderful reason to stay. So for me, I want us to at least try that project. I mean not just only try but I know we can give our best." He finally said.

"Thanks Lloyd. It's such a wonderful encouragement to hear." I replied smiling at him.

"We should be the one who is thankful to you. Thank you Dale." Aaron interrupted.

"I agree with him Dale. You're not just a great team leader; you're also a good friend. Remember the last time I'm in so much need because my father is sick and he needed that medication? Honestly, you're the last person on my list to be that I'll be asking for help. And the moment I spoke with you, you never let me down. I'm just so proud of how you manage to give all your monthly salary just
to help my father. And perhaps that attitude of yours makes me feel loved and comfortable in this place we are working with. "My article writer, emotionally
shared.

"Thanks Liz. You're not just a friend to me. You're all my family. So if anyone is in need, expect me to help you the best I can do." I said trying to control my emotion that soon will burst up.

"Before we get very emotional here, I would like to inform you that whatever would be your decision, would be the team's decision. Yes, we may always went
home late and sometimes we even treat the studio as our own place but after the magazine launch and release, it's very rewarding to hear the compliment of each company. So, I guess it's another deal then." My secretary Lain finally said.

"Thank you so much guys. I'm really surprised as well as flattered from all you've said. I never expect to hear those words from you. So I think it's settled then. Don't worry. I'll make sure that there is enough foods and drinks in the fridge every day. Of course, everyone will be properly compensated. Thank you so much." I gladly replied.

"As we always expect, Dale. You're welcome." they all said in unison.

"Alright! Meeting is adjourned. Let‟s enjoy our work and bring good fortune to our families." I finally said.

They all went to their respective seats and tables and continued their work. I went towards my secretary to inform him of a short meeting tomorrow with Mr. Suarez.

"Lain, tomorrow early in the morning, please have a reservation table at the coffee shop we always hang out with. Also, kindly inform the secretary of the READS COMPANY that we want to set another meeting with their CEO. Thanks. "I informed her.

"Sure Dale. " She said.

"Okay. Let's go back to work." I finally said.

I went directly to my office and quickly change my clothes to something comfortable for work. I also made myself a coffee since I noticed that Lain was a bit busy preparing for my presentation to some of our clients for this week.

After that, I went back to my table and continued my work. My phone buzzed at the table so I reached out for it. It was my dad calling me in the middle of the
night. I got curious and slightly nervous.

"Yes dad?" I started.

"I was right. You‟re still awake." He said over the phone.

"Yes, dad! We need to since we will be closing another deal perhaps this week thus we need to hurry up." I said.

"God bless your team, Dale. By the way, your mom informed me earlier to remind you about Annah's university tour next week." He said.

"Oh, I'm sorry dad. I already deposited the money yesterday. I forgot to call you. Just tell mom to withdraw money from the bank for Annah's tour and for the
house expenses next month." I said.

"Okay. Thank you baby." He said while smiling. I felt it.

"No worries, dad. Just tell me if you need anything. I'll make it up for you." I finally said.

"God bless your heart. I sleep then." He finally said.

"Goodnight." I said.

After that, I went back to my work smiling. I was truly blessed not just with my career but also with my family.