Fined Thousands for Water

A Foolish Man

I gave her a look that said she had room temperature IQ. I meant that in Fahrenheit. "Are you expecting me to enter the conference hall when my access card privileges are revoked? Perhaps you might have to see a doctor. That new brain of yours isn't working as well as you think it is."

"Do not try to mock me! That is no reason to go against company rules!"

Anthony showed up with a big fat grin on his face. He praised Queenie for her earnest work. "Ever the earnest employee, Queenie. That's what a company needs to get better."

Queenie smiled smugly and gave me a challenging glance. Anthony turned his attention to me. "Forget the reflection, Christina. It's a waste of time, anyway. Still, you abused company funds, and that will cost you three months' worth of pay. But you've worked hard. Yes, it meant nothing, but I can't deny your hard work. Apologize to Queenie, and this is water under the bridge. No next time, though."

That was ridiculous. "You hear justice in your judgment, but I hear the goddess of justice weeping in shame. Save your punishment, Anthony. I quit!"

That riled Queenie up. "Don't push your luck, Christina! Mr. Shawlesque is helping you out here!"

I did not dignify that with a response. My eyes were still on Anthony. "We're done, Anthony. With you. With this company."

I swiveled and left. That night, I held a farewell party at a restaurant. The coworkers I got along with attended. I thanked them for the help and assistance they gave me during my employment.

Everyone talked about the days we worked together for the company. The air was filled with laughter.

"Things won't be the same without you, Christina."

"Yeah. No one can clean up our mess better than you."

I told them things would be alright. "Everything must come to an end, eventually. But you can call me if you need anything. I'll see if I can help."

We were just having fun, but then, through the corner of my eye, I saw Anthony coming in with Queenie. That was surprising. These two came uninvited.

Still, Queenie took the main spot and looked at me like I was beneath her. "Come on, apologize already, Christina. What are you waiting for?"

This woman was unbelievable. I was going to snap at her, but Anthony spoke up first.

"Finally, you did something I like, Christina. You reserved this whole space. Now all you have to do is apologize to Queenie, and this will all be over."

Well, that was confusing. I checked my phone, and my question was answered. I set Anthony to Do Not Disturb, so I did not notice his message. He told me to reserve a room and apologize to Queenie in front of everyone.

All I had to give was a sneer. Then, I turned my eyes to them. "Someone's getting high on power. I don't have the time to play with you. This act is yours, not mine. I gave everything to the company, and in the end, I was insulted over a bottle of cheap water. And now you think you can make me apologize? Preposterous!"

My coworkers exchanged looks of disbelief and indignation. Most of them had worked for the company for years. They too gave time and effort for the company. My situation acted as a warning for them. Today, it was me. Next time, it could be them.

Anthony's face fell. "Don't push it, Christina. This is your last chance."

I sneered. "Pity I don't need that kind of chance."