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114 SNAKES IN SUITS
honest, I did. But Sam hasn’t been able to convince the selection
committee. They’re hung up on the sales figures as well as some of
the other stuff.”
“Listen, Joe, let me call your wife. I’ll explain to her that your
stress is—”
“Ron,” interrupted Joe, “my wife didn’t make this decision; I
did.” Joe looked down and then up into Ron’s eyes, saying, “Well,
they made the decision for me. It’s the best for all of us.”
“I can’t believe they forced you out after all these years.”
“Times change, and I guess I have to, too. They’re offering to
pay for a program, as part of the deal, to help with my problem.”
“You don’t have any problem, Joe,” said Ron.
“Thanks, Ron, but both you and I know I do,” said Joe, lowering
his voice. “I think they have my best interest at heart. Few people get
this kind of support when they go. They really want me to straighten
myself out. The server arrived to take their order, and Ron picked
out a special wine to celebrate Joe’s retirement.
The rest of the afternoon was loud and raucous, as all the previous
monthly lunch meetings between them. On the surface, Ron appeared
happy for Joe and talked about visiting him and his wife up at
the lake, fishing, and barbecuing. In his mind, however, he was planning
his next move.
After lunch, they shook hands and exchanged a big bear hug.
“I’ll process these,” said Joe, picking up the paperwork.
“Don’t forget the package,” reminded Ron, indicating the grocery
bag under the table.
“I won’t be needing that anymore; thanks, though, you’ve always
understood. I’ll miss working with you.”
Ron entered his corporate-paid apartment. “Damn,” he swore,
falling into the easy chair in the living room. He picked up his cell
phone and began dialing. This would be a long night on the phone;
time to call in some favors and get some dirt on Jack, his rival for the
promotion.