“If we transfer, it might look like we’re admitting to doing something wrong. And we haven’t done anything wrong.”
“You’re right.” My chest puffs at what she is saying, but my heart hurts at the thought she might want to end things between us. “We haven’t.”
“After you left, I realized I had no one else to talk to about this. I couldn’t call my mom, and there’s no way I’d get in touch with Rachel. Most of my other friends work here, yet they’re all betting on when I get fired and gossiping about you and me.”
“You need new friends.”
“I do, but the only person I wanted to discuss this with was you. So, I pretended to have a conversation with you.”
I love her so much. “How’d it go?”
“Figured out a few things.” Abby leans forward and lifts her chin. “I want to stay here and face this head-on. Show everyone that we can be professional and that our relationship doesn’t affect our work.”
I smile at her determination. “We’ll face it together. But how do you want to handle it?”
She grins. “I have a few ideas…”
“Excellent. You’ve got better communication skills than I do, so I can’t wait to hear what you’ve come up with.”
For the next hour, Abby and I brainstorm ways to address the rumors and improve the office culture.
I twirl my pen. “What if we start with a team-building exercise?”
Abby’s eyes light up. “That’s a great idea. Maybe something that encourages open communication?”
“Exactly.” I lean back in my chair. “An effective communication and conflict resolution workshop might work.”
Abby’s posture relaxes. “We should also address the rumor mill head-on. Perhaps a company-wide meeting where we encourage transparency and discourage gossip and betting on an employee’s employment?”
I snap my fingers. “Yes, and we can use that opportunity to reinforce our company values and expectations.”
We outline a comprehensive plan that consists of team-building exercises, a communication workshop, and regular check-ins with department heads. We also decide to implement an anonymous suggestion box in the break room and monthly meetings to address concerns openly.
As Abby stands, the corners of her mouth are tipped upward. “We’ve got something solid here.”
A weight lifts off my chest. “We do.”
“Thanks for taking this so seriously. It means a lot.”
“Anytime, and that’s what a boss and a boyfriend are for.” I only wish I could kiss her.
Abby leaves, and I lean back in my chair, exhaling slowly.
We have a good plan, and I have a feeling the office gossips won’t know what hit them.
CHAPTER TWENTY-ONE
Abby
Every seat in the conference room is filled. I can’t believe I’m standing in front of my coworkers, about to co-present a workshop, yet here I am. I try not to yawn since I barely slept last night. But the adrenaline surging through my body should keep me going. This meeting needs to go well.
As I scan my coworkers’ faces, my heart races. Some appear curious, others look bored, and a few are not happy to be here. I take a deep breath, reminding myself of what John and I are doing. This is our chance to set things right at the office.
“Good morning, everyone.” My voice sounds steadier than I feel, and my smile doesn’t waver, making me proud. I’m fighting back, not only for my relationship, but also for a better working environment. “Thank you for coming to our first team-building exercise.”
A few mutters ripple through the crowd. Sarah rolls her eyes. A part of me wants to be surprised, but I’m more hurt after learning my friendly coworker, who always wanted to chat with me, is the ringleader of the office gossipers.
I can ignore her and everyone else. Too much is riding on the meeting to be distracted.
