April:
You said the launch was mandatory. I wasn’t going to risk being fired again.
I smirk.
Me:
Not planning on firing you, April.
Unless you cause a scene here and start heckling the models. Then we’ll have problems.
April:
Was that a joke?
Did Anthony Voss just make a genuine joke?
What timeline am I in?
I stifle a laugh with my hand as my eyes flick from my phone to the runway and back again.
Me:
I was being entirely serious.
April:
Liar
I know before I even send it that it’s risky, but I do it anyway.
Me:
Brat.
The pause is clear. That single word hangs in the digital and physical space between us. I stare at the runway, not showing a hint of fear that I may have gone too far with one single word.
But when she responds, it’s a clear shift.
April:
So are you asking all of your employees to carry a baby, or am I just lucky?
Me:
Oh, my apologies. I thought the offer would be flattering.
April:
I was mostly horrified
Me:
And yet, you haven’t quit. You’re here.
April:
Because I have rent and bills to pay, and I quite enjoy having heating in the winter.
