by DiAnn Mills
Tuesday, 7:45 a.m.
Every Tuesday morning at Flash began with a Bible study before work. Alina had never known Fred to miss one, until today. Once again the boardroom filled with employees, but the normal hum and laughter had vanished since yesterday’s session. Donuts sat untouched on the table. Perhaps these were left over from yesterday.
“I think I’ll pass on Bible study.” James reached for the coffee. “Not into it today.”
Alina searched for words to encourage and persuade the man. “I’m not in the mood either. I don’t think any of us are, except now is the time when we do need to delve into God’s Word.”
James crossed his arms over his thick chest. “Who’s leading it? You?”
Before Alina could answer, Deidre cleared her throat. “Fred phoned me last night and asked me to take over this morning,” she said. “And since I didn’t have time to prepare, I thought we’d read Psalm 139 and do prayer requests.”
“They’d all be the same request,” James said.
“Maybe so.” Deidre poured a cup of coffee and opened the donut box. “And if that’s the case, we can all pray for each other.”
Most of the group stayed, except James and a woman from accounting.
“I understand how they feel,” Alina said a few moments later, “because I’m angry, too. The idea of praying for the Neon executive with Fred makes me physically ill. He’s charting our future, and we’re nothing more than names and numbers.” She took a deep breath. “But I will do what pleases God—and pray my attitude improves.”
“I caught a glimpse of him in Fred’s office,” Deidre said. “He didn’t look like the enemy.”
“Satan never does.”
Friday, 8:00 a.m.
Alina thought she’d burst before Friday’s meeting with the executive from Neon Interchange. Fred and Mr. In-Charge had met somewhere away from Flash for the past three days, which thoroughly infuriated her. She wanted to size up this fellow and make her own observations before the meeting. In truth, she wanted an opportunity to corner him about a few pertinent matters—like job stability for herself and the others.
“Thirty minutes until the meeting.” Deidre plopped down a cream-filled buttermilk donut and black coffee on Alina’s cluttered desk.
“You’re a doll.” Alina watched the steam rise from the granite blue cup with Flash Communications’ logo stamped on the side. Oh, how she needed the extra caffeine this morning. “You know I can’t resist coffee and a good donut.”
Deidre grinned. “I thought about bringing you stroganoff from last night’s dinner, but Clay ate it all before going to bed.”
“My kind of guy.” Alina licked a dollop of chocolate cream filling from the corner of her mouth. Guilt suddenly assailed her, and she laid the donut on a napkin. “Listen, Deidre, I’ve been a real bear this week.”
“Understandably so,” her friend replied. “This has been rough on all of us.”
“No excuse. I apologize for every time I’ve been short and totally out of line. Please forgive me. That’s not the way friends treat each other, and I claim to be a Christian.”
“It’s okay, really.” Deidre smiled. “Besides, it made for interesting conversation around the dinner table. Clay couldn’t wait to hear the next episode with all the juicy details.”
Alina nearly rose from her chair. “You what?”
“I’m teasing.” Deidre laughed and pushed back her shoulder-length black hair. “But I had you going.”
“Only for a minute.” Alina shook her head. “I was beginning to detest myself. Unfortunately, my resolve to improve my attitude hasn’t been successful.”
“A few more minutes and you’ll have some answers.”
Alina gripped the coffee cup. “Not so sure I want to hear Neon’s plans, but since my job is on the line, I’ll be firing questions and comments left and right.”
“Nothing new there.” Deidre glanced through the window to the outer office area. “There’s Fred, and I recognize the man from Tuesday morning. Come see for yourself. Both are smiling. Good sign.”
Alina moved to the doorway to catch a glimpse of the two men. She shivered, and a moan escaped her lips. No. This can’t be happening. “There must be a mistake.” Ryan Erikson.
Ryan knew he’d have to face Alina sooner or later. He preferred later. When he learned she worked for Flash Communications and was the key person to assist him through the transition, he wanted to resign and take the first flight out to some desolate place in northern Russia. At the sight of her, the past six years vanished and the old tug at his heart pounded out his longing. Her dark hair, tucked professionally behind her ears, and her glowing complexion were reminders of her love for the outdoors. Instantly he found himself propelled back to another time, and his emotions surfaced. Striking as ever. She lifted her chin. Challenging as ever. He caught her attention, and even from a distance, he felt the coldness. The idea of battling her bitterness over this takeover left a vile taste in his mouth. He remembered her stubbornness and the pent-up little girl inside. He also remembered the good times between them. Someday he’d confront her as to why she broke off their relationship. But not today.
Today he’d present Neon’s business arrangement to the employees of Flash Communications and hope none of them followed him back to his hotel. Their jobs were in jeopardy, their lives about to be altered. All of the training Neon Interchange had provided still didn’t prevent the sinking feeling he experienced when he had to break unpleasant news—and do so with professionalism. He didn’t dare let them see how he ached for those who would lose their jobs. How many times had a wife or husband phoned and begged him to reconsider? He could do little but pray for those affected by job loss.
“Thanks for paving the way for me,” Ryan said to Fred. “That makes my job a little easier.”
“They’ve had a few days to digest the buyout,” Fred said. “I know you’ve done this type of thing before, but as I said yesterday, these folks are more like family than employees.”
“From what little bit I know of you, I wouldn’t expect anything less.”
Fred expelled a heavy sigh. “And from what I know about you, I can see you’re going to do everything possible to help them through the transition.”
“Business negotiations are one thing.” As they moved closer to the meeting area, Ryan sensed the growing hostility. “But a heartless executive is never what I want to be.”
“I explained the reasons for the change, but I know some didn’t hear a word I said.” He greeted a young woman as she passed by. “For me, retirement is something I’ve considered since my heart attack. I feel a mixture of responsibility to these folks and my love for my family. I’m selfish, too. I want all of them to be happy and to make a good living. Christian ethics play a major role, too.”
“I wish every situation like this one had a Christian in charge. Sure makes it easier to work through the process.”
“Well, there is obstacle number one, my right-hand lady, Alina Marlow,” Fred said. “Highly qualified, like a daughter to me, and very hurt about this buyout. I haven’t had the time to talk to her like I wanted, but she knows it’s inevitable. The sooner you soothe her concerns, the sooner the rest of the employees will follow her leadership.”
“I’ll do my best.”
Fred ushered the way into a small boardroom where water and coffee had been set in the middle of the table. The room held an icy blast.
“Feels like someone has the AC on instead of the heat.” Fred frowned. “Sure hope that wasn’t done on purpose.”
Ryan chuckled. “Wouldn’t be the first time. We might as well get started.”
He watched the employees of Flash Communications file into the room and seat themselves around a large rectangular table. Extra chairs lined the far end of the room, against the wood-paneled wall. Silence—the usual greeting—grated against his nerves. The employees appeared frightened, and a few looked downright hostile. He’d feel the same in their shoe
s.
Fred stood, and the room quieted. “Folks, this is Ryan Erikson from Neon Interchange.” Fred’s bearing demanded attention. “He is in charge of communications between Flash and his company, and he is the director of the transition process. As you already know, for the past few days Ryan and I have been talking about the best way to complete this transition. I’ve grown to appreciate his professionalism and call him a friend. I am counting on you for cooperation and giving 100 percent of your abilities, just as you’ve always done for me.”
Ryan took his place beside Fred and shook his hand. He waited while the former owner of Flash sat down beside Alina, knowing the formal courtesy showed his and Neon’s utmost respect for the company’s owner.
“I imagine most of you are filled with questions about what this buyout means to you. I’m here to provide answers to the best of my ability. Neon Interchange wants to make this transition as smooth as possible. We understand your need to keep your jobs and your desire to avoid any unpleasantness during the next three months. Eliminating positions is not our goal, but effective and economical business practices are our focal point.
“Our goal is to provide this great community with the service and technology of larger metropolitan cities. These services will include high-definition TV, additional channels, wireless Internet, security monitoring, and computer-integrated telephone systems. Neon has the capital to upgrade the hardware and software necessary to bring these services to Radisen. In advance, we’ll bring in a team who will train you on how to use the new technology prior to deployment. This way you’ll be prepared to answer customers’ questions and solve any problems related to the new services.
“In addition, employee benefits will exceed those already in place here at Flash Communications. As Neon Interchange employees, you’ll have access to new dental and vision plans, plus improved medical programs to choose from. Neon also has a great profit-sharing program and a 401(k) with company matching funds up to 6 percent of your gross wages, as well as other retirement benefits.
“We’re all on the same team now, and I look forward to getting to know each of you as we progress through this three-month transition period. I’d be happy to answer your questions now.”
A man lifted his hand. “My name is James Ferguson. I’m the installation foreman. How many of our jobs will be eliminated?”
Ryan nodded. “Good question, and I wish I had the answer this morning. We’ve already identified some positions that will no longer be necessary or will be filled by Neon personnel out of necessity. Those employees affected will be notified privately as soon as possible. Other positions in question will be evaluated over the next several weeks.”
“Will you be doing the evaluation and deciding who stays and who is booted out?” James asked.
“I will be making the recommendations; however, the final decision rests with Neon.”
“How special.” James narrowed his eyes and shot Ryan a venomous glance. “How soon will we know?”
“Depends on the job and how quickly we all work through the transition. Quality service personnel are needed regardless of the buyout. You and I will talk privately about your team of installers and their qualifications.” The mixture of fearful and angry looks he received tugged at Ryan’s conscience, but he’d long since been schooled in keeping a professional demeanor.
An Asian woman wiped a tear from her eye; she was Deidre Blackman, the secretary he’d seen at the desk outside Alina’s office.
“Neon does offer a severance package for key individuals. I will have that information available for those affected in writing next week. What is important to remember is to continue your jobs as always. Fred or I will notify you if something changes.”
“What about relocation?” a young man asked.
“That is also a possibility.”
“To Columbus?” Alina asked—her first verbal communication since Ryan opened the meeting to questions. She sat back in her chair as though she were in charge. How well he knew her facade, especially when she wanted to cover her emotions.
“Not necessarily. We have offices around the country and in Canada, Germany, and Denmark. If a position is available, any of you are invited to apply.”
“If we want to discuss this transition with you privately, is there a problem?” The sarcasm lacing Alina’s words were grim reminders of the past.
“No problem. I understand Deidre Blackman will be assigned to me during this time, and anyone who wishes to see me can make an appointment with her.” He nodded at Deidre and smiled. “She and I have time scheduled right after lunch to go over procedures and establish when those appointments should be made.”
“Deidre is my secretary,” Alina said.
Whoa. Got her riled now. “Let’s talk right after this meeting. I won’t have too many things for her, and I think we can both utilize her abilities without overworking her in the process.”
Alina said nothing, but he had a strong feeling their meeting would be reminiscent of their college days just prior to graduation.
“Where is your office?” James asked.
“I will be sharing space with Alina Marlow.” From the corner of his eye, he saw her stiffen. Fred should have told her about the arrangement, and for a moment he felt sorry for her. Everything about this takeover had to be tough. “If there are no more questions, I’d like to turn this meeting back over to Fred.” Ryan paused, and when no one spoke he added, “Thank you for your attention, and I appreciate your cooperation.”
Fred clasped his hand on Ryan’s shoulder before addressing the group. “I’d like to thank all of you for your attendance. None of this is easy, but I’m counting on you to support Ryan. I, too, am available to discuss the buyout and help with the transition in any way I can.” As he spoke, the owner of Flash Communications projected the same confidence that Ryan had seen over the past few days. “I’d like to end this meeting with a personal request. Let’s show Neon Interchange why and how Flash Communications has been successful here in Radisen, and let’s work together to give our customers the expanded services they’ve been asking for. Thank you.” When Fred stepped aside, the employees stood and began working their way toward the door.
Now was the time for Ryan and Alina to talk about her involvement in the days ahead and Deidre’s role. He’d rather face the rest of the employees in a dark alley.
three
Friday, 11:00 a.m.
Alina smiled at her friends and waited until they left the boardroom before making eye contact with Ryan. She trembled and proceeded to put each chair around the rectangular table in place. Talking to Ryan was harder than she’d ever imagined. The relationship they’d shared ended abruptly—harshly. And she’d been the one to break it off.
His gaze captured hers, and he smiled, but she couldn’t return the pleasantry. Not yet. She’d gather the strength in a few minutes and hope Ryan couldn’t see how his presence affected her. The memory of his pale blue eyes had haunted her for years, and the sight of his wheat-colored hair reminded her of how she used to tease him about the color being bottle-blond. In reality, he’d descended from Scandinavia. Both of his parents were fair…. Don’t go there.
Ryan hadn’t changed much, except in the way he chose his words. She recognized the keen intellect, and she saw something else, too—a warmth and peace not there in years gone by. Everything about him emanated political correctness; he was the epitome of an executive. He still possessed the same compassion and caring in the way he related to people—even more so. She had always appreciated those special qualities about him, despite the action she’d taken.
“Alina, are you ready to talk now?” Ryan asked.
That same question echoed from the past when she’d refused to discuss why she’d broken off their engagement. “Yes, I’m ready. Where did you have in mind … to discuss things?”
“Use this room,” Fred said. “I have things to do.” He turned to Ryan. “I appreciate your treatment of the situation.”
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She rolled Fred’s words around in her head. Did “treatment of the situation” mean she’d lost the fight for her job before it began?
“No problem. I’ll head your way once Alina and I are finished,” Ryan said.
Fred sent Alina a sincere smile, and she did her best to silently convey reassurance that she would not sabotage Flash Communications. The door closed, seeming more like a final assessment of Fred’s company than an opportunity to discuss the future with Ryan.
I’m such a cynic. Ryan has forgotten about me by now. Our past has nothing to do with my work here. She glanced at his left hand to see if he wore a ring. Nothing. She didn’t know whether to be relieved or not. In the next thought, she realized his unmarried status was not a good thing.
“Shall we sit down?” Ryan asked. “I have a list of things to go over, and I want to take whatever time we need for each one before I talk to Fred and Deidre.”
Alina pulled out a chair she’d just replaced. Opening her notebook to a new page, she finally made eye contact. For a moment, she saw a hint of sadness in his eyes; then it vanished. In its place was the look of a man who had nothing more than business on his mind. She dug her fingernails into her palm.
He opened his laptop and powered it up. “I want to keep track of our discussion, then e-mail it to you later. That way we’re on the same page.”
Her thoughts scrambled back to when her insides felt like jelly at the sound of his voice, much the way she felt now, but for a different reason.
“I’m curious as to why you’ll be sharing office space with me,” she said.
“I’m told it’s large enough to accommodate both of us, and it makes sense since we’ll be working together for the next three months.”
“During the entire transition?”
He nodded. “Alina, this may be hard, but I’m sure we can put aside our past personal life and work for the good of the company. Being friends is important to me.”
“You forget one important factor. I don’t agree with this buyout.”