“I know, but Royce is trying to set up another meeting. We kind of need you to take one for the team.”
Take one for the team? I already did that when Jack blatantly didn’t follow through on this event. He thought I’d cave instead of taking on the additional stress. He was wrong.
I wait for the punchline. After a few heavy seconds, it’s clear there isn’t one.
“This won’t work. I’m not staying here. I have a flight tomorrow and I’m headed to the east coast. I can’t take this meeting,” I say through clenched teeth. My body is hot with rage. My face gets more and more flushed with each word I say to Jack.
“If you would’ve let me tag along, I could’ve stayed for the meeting and you could have gone to Salem, but that isn’t how it panned out…” He has the nerve to sigh before continuing with his bullshit.
“Stella and I both agreed this was the best decision, instead of tellingBliss4ul we couldn’t swing it. We know how much you value opportunity,” Jack croons into the phone, a heavy emphasis onStella. “I thought you’d be thankful.”
“This is a joke, right?”
“You can obviously continue to work remotely while you’re at the lodge. You won’t miss out on any pay.”
This worthless excuse of a human continues to one-up himself.
“Are you made of human parts?” I can’t believe I was ever in love with this guy. “Do you mean to tell me I’m supposed tothankyou for having no boundaries and canceling my vacation?” I’m almost yelling and I don’t care. “This isn’t professional. If you want to take the meeting so bad, you can fly here today.”
“Can’t incur the extra cost,” he says flatly. “Stella approved this.”
I’m contemplating my next move but there’s nowhere to go. I feel like I’m trapped. If Stella wants me to stay, it must be worth it. She wouldn’t ask me to cancel a planned trip. I could call her but I don’t want to be a burden.
“You are unreal. In the absolute worst way.” My resolve is chipped and I don’t have words to describe how much I detest him.
“Ivy, you bagged the meeting. Quit being dramatic.” His voice is rough on the other end.
Anger runs through my body. I’m immediately reminded of all the times I’ve missed dinners and drinks with friends all while handling the crisis of the week. My brain flashes to a highlight reel of each time I’ve said, “I wish I could” or “maybe next time.”
“Dramatic? How’s this… I’ll stay but I’m not working. Royce has my number, he can correspond with me—and only me—on when he’d like to meet.” I feel like I’m on a roll. Not entirely sure where this confidence came from but I go with it. “This will beadditionalpaid time off since you’ve sabotaged my trip. And, listen closely to this next part, I’ll still have all my vacation days to take when I return.”
“That isn’t realistic, Ivy—” Jack scrambles.
“Oh, I think it is.” I cut him off and hang up before he can utter another syllable.
I sort of can’t believe I did that. Making sure my phone is turned off, I slump back into bed, whip the covers off because I’m too hot, and let the tears flow.
After a quick cry and a nap, which I’m certain can cure almost anything, I’m back to strategizing.
First, I call Vivian. I cry when I tell her the news and I’m comforted by the familiar insults she uses to describe Jack. I’m pretty sure she’s come up with her most creative insult to date:cock nosed dick-weasel. She’s pissed but trying to console me. Another reason why I love Viv.
Next up is clothes. My suitcase holds a backup business casual outfit and that’s about it. I made it a point not to bring anything extra so I wouldn’t need to check a bag for such a short trip. I guess the joke’s on me.
For the next seven days that I’m stuck here, all I have to wear, that isn’t luxe business casual, is my matching pajama set. There’s no way around it—I’ll have to get some clothes.
Not sure how considering this place is in the middle of nowhere. I don’t remember passing any stores, or even any streetlights, on our way here, but I did see a shop on the main floor. I haven’t been inside, I’m unsure what kind of shop we’re talking about. Stale novelty candy or things that will be helpful? Only one way to find out.
I put on my event outfit from yesterday and go downstairs.
Luckily, the lodge is quiet and most people are still in their rooms. I walk into the gift shop and am surprised at how much is here. Different local candy and treats, craft beer and cocktails by the can, luxury bath bombsand oils, and your standard souvenirs.
There’s a small section of clothes and I’m thrilled when I find a few options that will work: two pairs of black leggings, a tank top, cozy socks, a crewneck, and two tops that I think are meant for yoga and hiking, all emblazoned with The Emerald Canopy Lodge logo.
I’m easily holding $500 worth of stuff when I walk towards the register. The company policy is that any purchase over $300 needs to be approved prior. They can get lost. I’ve never thought less about following a rule or not. No one consulted me before canceling my vacation.
The register is unattended. I leave my items on the counter and continue to browse.
Next up is the snack area. I haphazardly grab a few local chocolate bars, my stomach growling since I haven’t had breakfast yet. The flavors range from spicy chocolate, to crème brûlée and blueberry muffin. I grab them all. Thank you, Sparks Wellness.
