Goodbye Yesterday

Did You Miss Me?

Sameer walked into the building and strode to his office.

Pooja was in her usual position in the office before his, when he walked in.

The previous event of how Ahdika had caused a scene in the office suddenly flashed into his mind, making him feel somewhat guilty—guilty for being the reason why one of the company's most loyal employee got disrespected in such a manner.

"Good morning, sir." Pooja greeted, pulling his out of his thoughts.

"Morning." Sameer responded with the straightest demeanor ever and walked into his office. He felt too embarrassed to even bring up the topic, talk more of apologizing.

He heaved a deep sigh and plopped into his swivel chair. His gaze darted to the pile of papers laying on the table. Just as he stretched his hand to pick the folder by the left side, a knock was heard on the door.

Sameer didn't need to be told whom it was at the other side of the door, because it was way to early to receive visitors. "Come in, Mrs. Mehra."

Pooja pushed open the door and advanced towards him, holding an envelope. "Sir, I came to give this to you."

Sameer glanced at the outstretched envelope and then at his secretary, before lowering his gaze and then clearing his throat. "I know the incident that occurred yesterday came as a shock to you, but I don't think that's a good enough reason for you to throw so many years of your working experience here away. I don't know what must be going on in your mind right now, but I think resignation should be the last thing. Personally, I'd like you to stay, because you are an asset to this company, but if your mind is already made up, then there's absolutely nothing I can do about it."

"Sir?" Mrs. Mehra raised a brow, incredulously. "Resignation? Who? Me?" She let out a humorous chuckle and shook her head. "I think you're mistaken, sir. This isn't a resignation letter."

"Oh!" Sameer remarked with a hint of embarrassment. "I thought..." His voice trailed. "Forget it."

"What happened yesterday indisputably made me feel bad, but not to the point of giving up my job." She started. "Especially when I knew I had a clear conscience. Resigning from my job didn't even cross my mind for a second, because at this point of my life, I'm aware that decisions made out of anger are always tragic. I have been working here for the longest time now and you've been the best boss there is. I can't possibly leave on my own accord, except you decide to fire me," She gave a small—almost non-existent smile. "which I know won't happen, because as far as I know, I have been diligent."

"Of course you have." Sameer agreed. If there was one thing he really admired about her, was her sense of responsibility. Her ability to complete a given task was top-notch. The last thing he would want was lose her, due to a meaningless confrontation. "Thank you for still being here. You'd have chosen to leave and I'd understand. I'm glad—really glad you didn't take her words to heart."

Pooja smiled and nodded. "I gathered she was just being insecure and...and I don't really blame her, such things happen when you're always busy at work. I just wish I had the chance to tell her you're not that kind of a person."

Sameer took a moment to think his secretary's words through. He was glad she thought so highly of him. Her words renewed his confidence in himself.

"I probably shouldn't have said that." Pooja cringed. "Here is the folder—"

"It's perfectly fine." Sameer responded, cutting her off. "Please have a seat. I really need someone to talk to right now and I feel you're the best person for that right now."

Pooja nodded and did as told.

"I want you to be honest with me. I know you have an idea of the kind of relationship I share with my wife. You've known me for a very long time. You know about my....the relationship I had with the other girl."