19. Dante
DANTE
“When will the package be delivered?” my boss asks around a mouthful of chicken parm.
“As I stated in my last update, I need more time.” My response is clipped as I attempt to maintain a semblance of respect. My patience has dwindled over the past few years, especially now that I see a new path forward so close it’s within reach.
“You know as well as I do that we don’t have more time. I don’t have more time.” The last statement is said with a twinge of sadness and regret, something I have only seen once before in my boss.
“I understand. I will do my best to move up the delivery timeline. The package is delicate and will require some finesse.”
“You know what’s at stake, Dante. Not just your future but also the future of the organization. You know it has to be this way.”
“I’ll get it done. I always do,” I say with assurance and a bit of remorse lacing my words. This is what I have been working toward for the past year, but at this moment, I can feel my priorities shifting without my consent.
“Good.”
I take that as my dismissal and rise from the booth and turn toward the exit.
“Oh, and Dante,” my boss says, causing me to pause, “you know the consequences of failure.”
With a simple nod of acknowledgment, I stride out the door and onto the street, walking through Thomas Jefferson Park toward the Harlem River.
It takes several moments for my pulse to return to normal, which is uncharacteristic for me.
I’m usually in total control, and the one delivering the threats, so hearing those words directed at me and knowing what I signed up for has my mind racing.
How can I complete this job and earn my freedom while dealing with the most beautiful thorn in my side?
One thing is for sure. If she is the thorn, then let me bleed slowly.
I’d take her sting a thousand times just to keep her near because thorns don’t just prick.
They stay buried under the skin, and I never want to dig her out.
I’ll just have to find a way to help my boss at the same time while still keeping her safe.