by S J Crabb
Well, it's been good to chat, but I need to get on with the rest of my life. Three months have passed by in a flash and if it has taught me anything, it's that it was among the worse of my life. So, it is with considerable relief and immense happiness that I bid you all farewell and move on to bigger and better things.
Happy Winter Season to you all.
Annie
Chapter Two
I'm still laughing to myself, as I speedily exit the building. I pressed send and then bolted before the email hit the fan.
I don't care anymore. Our wages were paid into our banks this morning and I don't need a reference from them. Three months will easily be explained away in my CV. I could say I was writing my memoirs or something.
However, there is still the pressing matter of finding a job. Two weeks before Christmas and not a hope in hell of finding one this side of the festive season.
My phone buzzes pulling me away from my panicked thoughts and I smile as I see it's from my best friend Gail.
You up for lunch babe?
I quickly type.
Emergency! Just got fired! Meet me at Giovanni's in five?
The response is almost instantaneous.
Wtf!!! I'm on my way.
As I head towards our favourite coffee shop I try to contain the panic setting in. Gail will know what to do. She will be the cool, calm, head of reason. My rock in my hour of need.
‘Oh, my God, this is a disaster! What are you going to do, I can't think straight?’
Her words come out in a jumbled mess as she surges towards me like a tornado, her bag knocking everything off the tables as she passes them.
Ignoring the angry stares of the other patrons, she sits down and looks at me with wide, slightly crazy, eyes.
I shrug. ‘I'm not sure. It's quite a shock, and I never saw it coming. I had hoped you would have a few sensible ideas.’
I fix her with a desperate look and she shakes her head.
‘Not really. I could ask if there's anything going at the salon. We always need casual staff around Christmas as everyone wants their hair done.’
I smile gratefully. ‘That's kind of you, but I'm not sure washing hair and sweeping up is for me. Not that I wouldn't mind doing it, in fact, I would quite enjoy it for a change. No, I need money and fast. My flat won't rent itself and its expensive living in London. My savings are non-existent and the Christmas bills have maxed out my credit card.’
We stare at each other as the realisation of my situation sinks in.
We are interrupted by my phone buzzing angrily. Looking at the display I can see it's the office calling. Even the phone sounds angry on their behalf.
Gail notices my expression and raises her eyes. ‘What's happened?’
I grin mischievously and tell her every delicious detail of my revenge. By the time we have wiped our eyes and gulped down our Lattes, I feel a lot better.
Gail looks at me with a considered expression. ‘So, what now?’
I sigh heavily. ‘I'll head home and start looking for jobs on the web. I could use the time to get my CV up to date and strike all evidence of my time with Mackinlay-Sanderson. If I put my mind to it, I'm sure I'll find something.’
Gail smiles reassuringly. ‘Of course, you will. I know, how about I pick you up later and we drown our sorrows in Divas?’
Shaking my head, I smile ruefully. ‘I'd better stay in and try to sort this mess out. I should save what little money I have left, anyway. How about we meet up for coffee tomorrow instead? I may be in a better frame of mind by then.’
Gail smiles softly. ‘Of course. Well, I'd better get back. I left Mrs. Abbot with a whole head of foils in. She'll be bright red instead of Auburn by the time I get back.’
She stands up to go and then grins. ‘Leave it with me, honey. You know, every mover and shaker around here, head through our salon doors at one time or another. Let me put the feelers out and see if I can find you something. People love a good gossip with their hairdresser. I'm sure it will just be a matter of time.’
I look at her gratefully. ‘Would you? I'd be eternally grateful.’
She laughs. ‘Like I said, leave it with me. Your new job is just around the corner. I can feel it in my waters.’
As I watch her go, I try to shake the image I now have of Gail and her waters.
I head off home via the Tube. Luckily, it's not too crowded, given that it's only mid-morning. My situation buzzes around my head and I think about my predicament. I love working in the City. It has such a buzz about it and everything we need is on our doorstep.
Gail works in the nearby hair salon that I go to and we became best friends. We often head out after work and hit the West End. We have a great life and I am reluctant to let go of it so soon.
My flat is just outside London and I love living there. It's a safe-ish neighbourhood and my neighbours keep themselves to themselves. It may be small but its home and I would hate to give it up.
By the time I get home, I resolve to sort this out once and for all. As I put the key in the lock, I take comfort in being in my own space again. Finally, I can think straight.
I fire up the computer and make myself a coffee. Now for the rest of my life.
Chapter Three
Three hours later and all I've managed to do is update my CV and register with a couple of agencies.
I am interrupted by the phone ringing. As I answer it my heart leaps as I hear the welcome voice of my boyfriend, Gary.
‘Hey, babe. You still on for the party tonight?'
My heart sinks. Of course, tonight is his office party and plus ones are invited. He works in an Insurance company not far from where I work, sorry worked! We met in Divas six weeks ago and he is officially now the love of my life.
I take a deep breath. ‘Sorry honey, I'll have to give it a miss tonight. It's been a really bad day and I'm in no mood to party. You go though.’
He sounds annoyed. ‘Why, what's happened? I've told everyone you're coming now and I'll look like an idiot.’
I swallow hard as I voice the words that have caused my life to change so quickly.
‘I got fired today and the last place I want to be is an office.’
Just for a minute there is silence and then he says softly. ‘I'm sorry, babe. What happened?’
I sigh heavily. ‘My probationary period was up and so was I it would seem. I was about to get expensive so they cut costs and terminated my temporary contract. Typical Accountants!’
He sounds annoyed.
‘Well, don't let the bastards get you down. Come out with me and we'll get roaring drunk and do unspeakable things when I take you home to my bachelor pad.’
Despite myself I grin. Hm, may not be such a bad idea. A drunken night out with the man of my dreams followed by a night of unbridled passion, sounds good to me.
I almost relent but then see yet another recruitment site flash up on Google.
‘Sounds great but I'll have to pass. You go and I'll see you tomorrow instead. I may be in a better mood by then.’
‘Well, I'm disappointed, babe, but I understand. I'll have a word with my boss. Maybe they could use your skills in our accounts department. It would be good to work together. We could indulge in illicit pursuits in the stationery cupboard during the working day.’
I laugh. Gary always cheers me up.
‘See you tomorrow Romeo and have fun. Make sure you get a cab home. I know you and your friends. The bar will be dry within minutes with you lot around. Just stay safe and try not to have too much of a hangover when you pick me up tomorrow.’
He laughs. ‘Love you, honey. Don't work at it too hard. Something will come up and if it doesn't, there's always tomorrow when we meet up.’
He laughs and I grin as I hang up. Gary is just what I need right now. Somebody fun to take my mind off my situation. Anyway, pushing him from my mind I set about the thankless task before me.
By the end of the day all I’ve achieved is discovering there's n
o job with my name on it.
I grab a salad from the fridge and eat it while staring morosely at the news. I may have to take Gail up on her offer at the salon. Something will be better than nothing, and it will tide me over until the New Year.
Feeling better about the one decision I've made that may bring in some money, I think about Gary and the party.
Maybe I should go. He's right, they may need some help in their accounts department, or anywhere else come to think of it. Burying myself away in my flat isn't going to get me a job. I need to network, get out there and meet and greet. This will be the perfect opportunity.
Two hours later I am standing outside Gary's office block. All around me people are milling around, either heading out to the many bars that surround the office complex or attending their own Christmas parties.
Despite being cold it's a lovely evening. London always looks magical at night and the stars are out clearly tonight. The air is crisp and cold and I pull my coat around me tightly and hurry inside.
Minster Insurance is located on the fifth floor. As I wait for the lift, I look around me with interest. This building is modern and sleek. It homes many companies within its walls and I could picture myself working here.
Maybe I will come back tomorrow and find out more about the companies here. I could chat to the receptionist and pick her brains. I must be proactive in looking for a job; sitting around in my flat won't pay the bills.
The lift arrives and I join a group of party goers as we cram inside its metal walls.
The guy next to me looks at me appreciatively and I pull my coat tighter around the little black dress that I'm wearing. My hair is curled and sits piled on top of my head and my makeup is heavy to withstand the evening ahead.
He shifts closer and I shrink against the walls. He smiles and I see a spark ignite in his eyes as his gaze travels the length of me. He says in a deep voice.
‘Hi, are you looking for Matthews and Finch?’
I shake my head.
‘No, Minster Insurance. My boyfriend is waiting for me there.’
My words don't faze him and he just grins. ‘Well, if you don't find him, then head up to our party. We're on the 6th floor, 3rd door from the right. I'll buy you a drink if you like.’
I just smile and look down. ‘Thanks, but I'll be fine.’
He shrugs, then luckily the lift arrives at my floor and I exit quickly before he can say another word. Maybe working here wouldn't be such a good idea.
Chapter Four
Gary’s office is heaving. The noise is tremendous and as office parties go, this one appears to be a good one. Unlike Mackinlay-Sanderson, these people obviously know how to have a good time.
There are Christmas decorations everywhere. They obviously don't have a problem with Christmas cards because there are lots of them, scattered around desks and pinned to noticeboards.
The music is thumping loudly and I almost can't hear my own thoughts. It would appear there are many people that work here, judging by the number of bodies squeezed into the large office space. I know that 'plus ones' were invited, but even so, this place is crammed.
I crane my neck to look for a familiar face but immediately draw a blank. Somebody pushes past me and I stumble. Just as I think I’ll embarrass myself by falling to the ground, a strong hand reaches out to steady me. I look at my rescuer gratefully and find myself staring into the eyes of a guy who looks about my age.
He grins and I feel him checking me out.
‘Hey. I haven’t seen you before, do you work here?’
I shake my head and shout, trying to make my voice heard above the music.
‘No, I’m here with someone but appear to have lost him.’
He rolls his eyes. ‘Typical. All the good ones are already taken. Who is he, maybe I can help?’
‘Gary Marshall!’
He laughs. ‘That figures. Gary’s always had a lot of luck with the ladies.’
I feel annoyed at his words. I know Gary’s good looking and a bit of a flirt, but he’s a good boyfriend. He may have once played the field, but not anymore.
He obviously senses my disapproval because his face softens and he smiles apologetically.
‘Well, he’s one lucky guy. Come on, I’ll help you look for him. Shouldn’t be too difficult because if I know Gary, he will be hugging the makeshift bar area.’
I smile at him gratefully. Despite first impressions, he seems quite nice really, so I follow him further into the crowd.
The music is loud so we shout to be heard. He pushes through the heaving masses and leads me to the end of the room. A group of desks have been pushed against a wall and are groaning under the weight of a small off-licence.
‘What are you drinking?!’ He shouts, grabbing a plastic cup from the desk.
‘Red wine, if you’ve got it!’
I watch as he pours a large amount of wine into the cup and thrusts it towards me before grabbing a beer from the plastic ice-filled crate underneath.
He smiles and clinks my drink with his.
‘Cheers.’
I smile and take a large gulp of wine. This is surprisingly good wine, not the usual petrol that gets served at these things.
He looks at me and smiles and I notice how attractive he is. Tall, quite well built, with dirty blonde hair and a wicked grin. If I wasn’t so in love with Gary he would be very much my type.
‘So, how long have you been with Gary?’
I smile back at him. ‘Six weeks. We met in Divas.’
He laughs. ‘Of course, you did. Gary loves that place, he really should have shares in it.’
I look at him curiously. ‘What about you, what do you do here?’
He rolls his eyes. ‘Sorry, where are my manners? My name’s Alex and I run this office for my sins. I’m in charge of the claims department; it’s my job to keep these unruly guys in check.’
I raise my eyes. ‘It would appear you have your work cut out then.’
He laughs as a guy falls against the table and sends the plastic cup tower crashing to the ground. He hiccups and then stumbles off without another word.
Alex grins and picks the cups up.
‘They’re allowed a one-night pass at the annual office party. The rest of the time I rule over them with a rod of iron.’
I laugh. ‘I don’t doubt that for a second.’
He grins. ‘So, what about you? What do you do when you’re not running around after Gary?’
I sigh heavily. ‘I’m an accountant - between jobs, as of today.’
He raises his eyes. ‘Why, what happened?’
I shrug. ‘Three-month probationary period came to an end, and I was yet another casualty of Brexit.’
He snorts. ‘And you believe that do you?’
I roll my eyes. ‘Of course not. I know how it all works and Brexit was just a convenient excuse. They have a revolving door when it comes to probationers and I should have seen it coming. I’m just going to have to be smarter next time.’
He looks concerned. ‘If you give me your number I could enquire here for you?’
I smile at him thankfully. ‘Sure, that would be very kind of you. I need all the help I can get at the moment. It would appear there isn’t much call for accountants this side of Christmas.’
I rummage around in my bag and pull out a squashed business card. I had these printed when I was job hunting; thank goodness I still have 2000 of them. I have a feeling I will need every one.
He looks at the card and smiles. ‘Well, Anne Anderson, I’m very pleased to meet you. My name is Alex Carstairs and I will do my utmost to assist you in your quest for employment.’
I shake his outstretched hand and grin. ‘I’m pleased to meet you too, and thank you kind sir, all offers of help are gratefully received.’
We just grin at each other and then I remember that I’m here to find Gary. I look around to see if I can spot him.
‘You know, Alex, I still can’t see Gary anywhere, do you think h
e’s even here?’
He shrugs. ‘I saw him earlier. He could have slipped out I suppose. Oh, there’s Alan his partner in crime, he’ll know where he is. After all, they are usually joined at the hip.’
Once again, I follow him into the crowd and try to stop my wine from spilling as we crash into the sea of bodies all around us.
Finally, we stop in front of Alan; at last, a familiar face. He is obviously quite drunk already because his eyes are red and he looks at me as if I’m a stranger.
Alex shouts. ‘Have you seen Gary anywhere?’
Alan shakes his head in confusion and slurs.
‘He’s around here somewhere.’
He blinks and then looks at me carefully as though he can’t quite place me. Then the realisation hits and he looks surprised.
‘Hey, Annie, I thought you couldn’t make it.’
I shake my head and smile. ‘I changed my mind. I thought it better than wallowing in my dilemma at home, after all, it is Christmas, the season to be merry.’
He shakes his head and if I’m honest looks slightly worried.
Alex looks at him thoughtfully and then a rather inebriated woman presses herself against him.
‘Alex honey, I’ve been looking for you everywhere. Come and dance with me.’
She then proceeds to rub herself against him, gyrating like she’s in a scene from Dirty Dancing. My goodness, the workers here certainly know how to party. I couldn’t imagine doing that to Mr. Prendergast. Mind you, if he looked like Alex I may be tempted.
