“However, they made a very compelling argument on your behalf, and as such, I’m inclined to reinstate you, effective immediately.”
The words don’t compute at first. I blink at him, certain I’ve misheard.
“You’re offering me my job back?”
“If you want it.”
Well, crap. If I’d known he was going to do that, I would have kept my thoughts on his leadership to myself.
The guys on the team fought for you.
My chest tightens with emotion. These men—this team—went to bat for me. Took on their GM to make sure I got justice. It’s so damn sweet that tears spring to my eyes.
I blink them back. I amnotgoing to cry in front of the GM.
I chew my bottom lip, considering. Of course I want the job. The work is challenging, the team has great vibes, and everyone has been so nice—aside from Banks, which is a whole other can of worms.
But I can’t possibly work under Banks in good conscience.
“I appreciate the offer,” I say carefully. “But I can’t work under Dr. Banks. He’s created a hostile work environment, taken credit for my ideas, dismissed my professional recommendations, and—”
“Banks will be investigated,” Towers says, cutting me off. “And if what the team has told me is true, he’ll be terminated. You have my word.”
Wait. Banks is getting an investigation? I didn’t get an investigation before I was fired. It’s totally unfair…which is probably the point. Besides, now that the organization knows what to look for, Banks will surely be fired, and I’ll never have to deal with him again.
It’s everything I could have asked for. So why am I hesitating?
Because as much as I love my job, the circumstances—and the pay—are less than ideal.
True, but I can’t change those facts…can I?
The words tumble out before I can stop them. “I want a permanent position. And I want the average market salary plus ten percent.”
Towers’s eyebrows shoot up. “Excuse me?”
“I have six years of education and significant experience in my field.” I lift my chin, channeling every ounce of confidenceI can scrape together. “The salary I’m requesting is appropriate for my level of expertise.”
God knows I can’t continue to rely on my father to pay my rent. I’m an adult, and I don’t want to be beholden to anyone.
Towers mutters something under his breath that sounds like “set up,” but he extends his hand. “You drive a hard bargain, Ms. Washington. Do we have a deal?”
Relief washes over me, and it’s all I can do not to squeal. “Yes. We have a deal.”
We shake on it, and Towers turns to the team. “Alright, gentlemen. Will youpleasetake the damn ice before we get fined?”
The guys erupt in cheers and head for the tunnel, welcoming me back as they pass. McGinnis gives me a fist bump, and even though I didn’t think it was possible, my love for this team grows.
They’re a good group of guys. Their sport is brutal, even cutthroat at times, but they’re not. Once you get past the tough exteriors, they’re loyal and protective, and they care deeply.
Knox lingers just long enough to press a quick kiss to my forehead. “Good luck out there,” I tell him.
“It’s going to be a good game.” He grins. “I’ve got my lucky charm.”
Coach clears his throat pointedly. “No canoodling in the locker room.”
What is it with middle aged men and canoodling?
Knox laughs and hurries to catch up to his teammates, leaving me alone with Coach.