I hope Ditra never has to sit through one of these meetings because the words performance and position would have her all giggly with innuendos.

“I wouldn’t say I’m bored.” I am, though, now that I think about it. Answering phones, doing data entry, and filing are not exactly exciting.

“In the beginning of the year, we’re going to have some marketing assistant positions opening up. I think you’d be great in that department, if you’re interested?”

My attention is instantly piqued. “Yes. I’m very interested in that.”

She pushes the self-assessment form across the conference room table to me. “Excellent. We’ll meet again at the end of January to discuss. In the meantime, I’d like you to fill out this form and submit it to me by the end of the week, just so I have it in your file. It’s required by HR.”

“I definitely will. Thank you for being so understanding. I’m looking forward to hearing about the new positions.”

She shuffles through my paperwork in her manila folder. “For now, you’ll be receiving a ten percent increase and a two thousand-dollar year-end bonus.”

Two thousand dollars!

“That’s very generous. I can’t thank you enough.”

Nodding, she takes her glasses off her face and perches them on her head. “There is one other thing I’d like to talk to you about, off the record, so to speak.”

“Okay….”

“I have a daughter your age, and you remind me a lot of her. You’ve worked for me since you were in high school. I’ve watched you grow into a beautiful, intelligent woman. Recently, I’ve heard through the grapevine here at the office that you’re involved with a man of… very limited means with an unfavorable lifestyle. I have to admit I’m concerned. It’s very easy to get sucked into a situation or an unhealthy relationship that’s not the best for us. I apologize if I’m overstepping. I just want you to be careful, and I hope it’s not the reason for your recent attendance and focus issues.”

I’m slightly taken aback. Not offended, because I know Olivia means well. I just don’t quite know how to respond. I’m not going to deny that I’m seeing Blue. And I’m furious because I know the “grapevine” is Melissa and her big-ass gossip-mongering mouth.

“I appreciate your concern, Olivia. And yes, I am seeing a guy who chooses to live differently than most of us, but he’s a very good, caring person. I’m not in any danger.”

“Very good. I’m not going to pry any further, but know that my door is always open if you need an ear.”

“Thank you.” I grab my form and walk back to my desk, then go to the ladies’ room to touch up my makeup and have a moment to gather my thoughts. And who do I run into in front of the sinks and mirrors? None other than Melissa. Without any thought or plan or self-control, I push her, and she stumbles back into the electric hand dryer.

“What the hell is wrong with you?” she demands.

“Keep your nose out of my personal life.”

“I don’t know what you’re talking about.”

“Save your lies. I know you told Olivia about who I’m dating.”

“If I have to cover for you every time you’re late because you’re adopting the local strays, then it is my business. And I’m worried about how sanitary you are. We don’t need you spreading crabs on the toilets.”

“Mind your own fucking business.”

She scoffs down at my four-foot-eleven, petite frame. “What are you going to do about it, Piper?”

I apply my lip gloss slowly and glance at her reflection in the mirror. “Oh, I don’t know,” I say casually. “But it would be a shame if something happened to your BMW out in the parking lot. Especially with degenerate homeless men milling around. I hear they like to key paint jobs, cut break lines, and slash tires just for fun. I’d be careful if I were you.”

She glares at me, eyes burning with anger and hatred. “You’re a crazy bitch.”

I shrug carelessly and wash my hands as she practically runs out of the room, and I smile at myself in the mirror with satisfaction. I’m done with allowing her to bully me, and it feels good to finally fight back and give her a taste of her own medicine.

I’m trying not to shiver as I huddle in the corner, sitting on an old throw pillow. Acorn is curled up on my lap in a ball, and I stroke his soft ears and muzzle as I watch Blue write on notepaper and play verses on his guitar, then repeat the process over and over again. He’s in one of his moods today, but thankfully, he’s just chain-smoking this time and not drinking. I’ve been watching him for hours, being quietly supportive from over here in the corner. Hours ago, we drank hot cocoa that I brought with me from Dunkin’ Donuts, but it only warmed me up for a few minutes.