Fred Slate is a powerful player in the advertising world. He’s one of those “come in like a lamb before he roars” kind of businessmen.
He and I worked very well together. I think I threw him off with my upbeat attitude, and he taught me so much about the business. I came in with raw talent, but Fred harnessed that talent and helped me to shine.
I owe him a lot. Professionally, I looked up to him. I did my work my way, but he was a mentor for sure.
Which is why being passed over for the promotion stung so much. Especially when he broke his promise to me.
“I want you back. Mountain Air Advertising wants you back.”
The breath leaves my lungs. “Um…it’s a little late, Fred.”
Most of me means it. But a piece of me, the piece that feels lost and aimless, is cheering.
“I get why you would feel that way. And that’s why I’m prepared to present you with an offer you can’t refuse.”
“Okay. What’s the offer?”
“I want you to take Steve’s position.”
My hand grips the phone. “Excuse me?”
He repeats his request.
“What happened, Fred? Because last we spoke, you made it ultra-clear that Steve was your top choice for the position.”
“And yet, we all make mistakes. Me included.”
“Okay, but…”
“Steve isn’t working out like I thought he would. He doesn’t have your work ethic or your drive, Emery.”
“And you didn’t realize that until now?”
“You weren’t just an employee but a darn good one. You fought for the company, Ms. Walker. You put everything you had into doing what was best for MAA.”
He used to tell me that. A fact that gave me false confidence I’d get the promotion.
“Steve doesn’t do the little things. Or even the big ones, if I’m being honest.”
“Uh-huh.”
“So what do you say?”
“What kind of numbers are we talking?” I ask him. “And what kind of autonomy will I have to make decisions?”
“I’m glad you asked. I’ve come prepared with all those answers.”
Fred starts rattling off what my raise will be, including double vacation time, a larger bonus, and then he reaffirms that I’ll have the control I’d wanted to make decisions.
“So all I have to do is say yes, and the position is mine?”
“All you have to do is say yes.”
I open my mouth to say I’ll take it. But the memories of how Fred chose Steve over me are still strong. And I don’t know that I can trust him anymore.
I can’t say yes.
But I can’t say no either.
