No, Janelle. Really. It’s no trouble at all. I can watch the counter for you and run my reports, too.
Sharon was surprised at the sarcasm dripping from her own tongue. Her coworker didn’t seem to notice and Sharon breathed a sigh of relief. Trouble comes in many shapes and sizes. Letting it get in the way of her workaday world would not be wise.
Taking over work for another was really not a problem, although it could be a challenge to switch brain gears from her own job to the other. Nevertheless she could rise to that occasion more quickly than switching gears in her private life. At least the work situation was temporary.
Changing life gears would be more challenging, but achievable. Nobody need know until she was ready to share.
Not sure when that will be, Sharon mumbled.
What? No, Ma’am, I’m sorry. I was talking to myself. How can we help you today? Janelle? She’s on a break. I’m happy to help you find what you are seeking. No, it’s no trouble at all.
Working at the upscale boutique had been one of the things Mark liked about her. He liked the opportunities to rub shoulders with designers at the many cocktail parties. “I’m bringing my portfolio tonight, Sharon,†he’d say as they dressed for a party. It was over her objections that he did so again and again. Janelle never let her live it down during the week following each party.
“Mark is sure eager, isn’t he?†she’d snipe at Sharon. “Tacky of you to let him bring the notebook,†she’d go on. Sharon would nod, trying not to let it get to her. Later she would breathe heavily into the mirror, mouthing the conversation she wished she could have with Janelle.
Which to dump first? Mark or this job? Sharon heard her Mom: “You’ve got a good head on your shoulders, Sharrie. You don’t need anyone. Go out and get them.”
Mark then. She dialed his number.
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It’s TROUBLEsome, but the feisty editors at Trifecta challenged us to write 33-333 words on trouble. This is a bit longer than I generally write, but Sharon needed her say. Who are you speaking for today?
