I gripped the edge of my notebook. “I think if you look at the complexity of those programs in relation to Spines for Soldiers, you’ll see that Spines for Soldiers was a massive undertaking.”
“It was a large program, true. But it was the only idea you even submitted all year.”
I’d anticipated this, but it still didn’t make it any easier. And while I didn’t want to throw Nicole under the bus, I also deserved credit for my work.
“Actually, Nicole and I worked together to develop most of the ideas she presented.”
His shrewd gaze assessed me. “Why am I just now hearing about this?”
I lifted a shoulder. “In the past, I preferred to take a behind-the-scenes role. But Spines for Soldiers opened my eyes to my potential and what I have to offer.” Spines for Soldiers, but more importantly, Connor.
Seth arched an eyebrow, and I wasn’t sure whether his reaction was a positive one. He shuffled some papers on his desk. “I’ll have to discuss that with Nicole and verify with her.”
“That’s fine.”
I also needed to speak with Nicole. I was done letting her take the credit for my ideas. What had started out as a mutually beneficial arrangement had been twisted into something else. She now seemed to expect that I’d just hand over my ideas. And while I was partly to blame for it, I was done being invisible. I had a voice, and I was going to use it.
“Where are we on the biography?”
I checked the urge to roll my eyes.Seriously?
I’d already come this far. It was time to speak up for myself.
“I’m not sure what that has to do with my ability to perform my job. And frankly, I think it’s inappropriate that you asked me to contact my father about it.”
He leaned forward, resting his elbows on the desk. “As an employee of Igloo, it’s in your best interest to do everything to help this company. I’ll expect the signed contract on my desk by tomorrow morning, or you can start looking for a new job.”
I stood, smoothing down my skirt. “Thank you.”
“For what?”
“For showing me my worth. I’m better than this, and I deserve more.” I opened the door. “I quit.”
“What?” he sputtered, his face growing red. “You wouldn’t.”
“I just did.” I turned and strode out the door, passing Alyssa on the way. She raced to join me.
“What’s going on?”
“I just quit my job.” I marched toward my cubicle with her on my heels. Though Spines for Soldiers was my baby, I’d find another way to give back to the community.
“Wait—what? Really?” She lifted her hand for a high five. “Finally. I’m so proud of you.”
“Thanks.” I laughed, feeling proud of myself. “It does feel pretty good. Apart from the fact that I’m now unemployed.”
“Who the eff cares? You’re going to have people begging you to work for them. Now, go enjoy your day with that sexy soldier of yours.” She winked.
After I promised to call her later, I packed up my cubicle, ready to be free of this place. Ready to have a fresh start, with Connor by my side. It was a lot of change in a short amount of time, but it had also been a long time coming. I tucked my bag under my arm and exited the building with a smile. I halted when I saw Connor standing out front, leaning against the building. His sunglasses shielded his eyes, but I could feel him watching me.
“Hey.” I smiled. “What are you doing here?” Not that I was complaining. I liked having him with me.
“I thought I’d take you to lunch to celebrate your performance review.” He gave me a peck, wrapping his arm around my shoulder as he guided me toward the parking lot.
I barked out a laugh. “We might want to celebrate something else. I just quit my job.”
But instead of feeling scared or disappointed, all I felt was hope. I would find another job. And now that I knew my value, I wouldn’t be taken advantage of again. I would take credit for my ideas and advocate for the things I cared about.
He squeezed me closer. “I’m proud of you.”
