“Look I’m sorry I didn’t trust you with what I found. I was in a bad place,” I admit.
Todd inclines his head.
“I’ll admit it hurt, but I also get it. I’m not sure what I’d have done in your place.”
My mind wanders back to the woman who helped resolve the issues. What’s she doing now? The procedures Todd is implementing are one’s Pen, and I devised. She wanted to ensure what happened could never happen again. At least not easily. Random rotating security methods would mean someone would be constantly having to update their process to override current procedures, and it’s now something we’re looking to incorporate into future client rollouts.
“Thank you anyway. It’s not something I say enough.”
“You’re welcome, but working here... It’s more than I ever dreamed of when we left university. It’s been a pleasure.”
“It’s been quite the ride.”
Todd’s glass is always half full. He’s a positive influence around the office. I wonder if Pen realised that when she recommended him, how much of an impact he would have.
“The guys on the team are going out for a drink this evening. Would you like to join us?”
His words surprise me.
Do I?
It’s been years since I attended team drinks. Usually, I send my credit card to pick up the tab.
“That would be great. Send me the details.”
Todd’s mouth opens slightly before he slams it shut, his grin widening.
“I’ll get straight on it,” he says, making his way to the door.
I make my way back around my desk, my mind wandering to Pen. I made the right decision by not attending her wedding. I can’t physically sit there and watch her say, ‘I do.’ It’s selfish, but I have to think about my own mental health.
Out of sight, out of mind.
I can continue on as if nothing has changed, as I have done for many years.
Pen deserves every happiness. I’m glad one of us has finally found it.
I spin back around and face my computer, opening my email.
I send a congratulations message to all the teams and a more personalised one to each of the major players. They’ve all gone above and beyond over the past few weeks.
I spend the rest of the day throwing myself into work. Development meetings with team leads and answering client’s emails and phone calls. By the time six o’clock comes and Jules knocks on the door, I’ve distracted myself for most of the day.
“Come in,” I say.
“I hear you’re joining us for drinks this evening.”
“I thought I’d make an appearance.”
“Excellent. The team will love it.”
“Are you telling me I should have been making more of an effort?”
“I’m not telling you anything, but it will be a popular move.”
I shake my head as I get up.
“Only you would get away with pointing that out,” I tell her.
