A Deeper Desire | Previous Challenge Entry

how it works

TITLE: A Deeper Desire | Previous Challenge Entry
By Ken Grant
06/01/17
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Gerald's heart beat wildly inside his chest as he sat pensively in front of his computer screen. His apparent focus was on the computer code displayed in front of him, but in reality all of his thoughts were on the office down the hall where his boss was in the process of determining his future. He was so caught up in anxiety that he didn't react immediately when his best friend and long-time co-worker appeared outside of his cubicle.

"Gerald!"

"Huh. Who's that?"

"Me, you idiot."

The playful tone of the words was matched with a soft slap to the side of Gerald's head.

"Oh, hey Roberto. What's up?"

Roberto pulled a chair next to Gerald and asked, "Where's your head at man? I know it's not in all that computer code in front of you."

"Kathleen is going to announce her decision on the new project manager tomorrow."

"Did you make your pitch?"

"I don't think that's proper."

"Does she even know you're interested in the position?"

"I've been here a long time."

"Exactly. You've been in this cubicle a long time and you will keep being here unless you put yourself out there and go for something better."

"That's not who I am. I like to let my work speak for me."

"Hey, Gerald," Bruce said as he came into the view of Gerald and Roberto.

"Yeah," Gerald replied.

"Kathleen wants to see you."

"Thanks."

"It's game time," Roberto said as he stood up, slapped Gerald on the back, and walked away.

Gerald stood slowly to his feet not sure what he should do or think. He carefully made his way to Kathleen's office and tentatively knocked on the door.

"Come in."

Gerald responded to the invitation by opening the door and stepping inside.

"Close the door and have a seat, Gerald."

"Okay," Gerald said softly as he sat down across from Kathleen.

"Nervous, Gerald?"

"A little."

"Why is that?"

"I'm waiting to see who you will choose for the project manager position."

"You are, huh. Who do you think I should choose?"

"It's not really my place."

"Gerald, you've worked with all of the people who are up for the position. I value your input."

"Cassandra is strong with organization. Celia is the best coder around. Jorge has a great business mind."

"What about you, Gerald?"

"I'm good all around, I suppose."

"Anything else?"

"No."

"Okay, thanks."

Gerald stood up, paused, then walked out closing the door behind him. He managed to avoid Roberto for the rest of the day before going home. He spent a fitful night before returning the next morning. As he walked into the office, he noticed a large group crowded around Cassandra's cubicle. He walked over to see what was going on.

"Gerald," Cassandra called out as he approached. "I can't thank you enough."

"Why is that?"

"Kathleen told me that she chose me as project manager mostly based on your input. Thank you so much."

"You're welcome, Cassandra. I know you'll do a great job."

Gerald moved to his cubicle and sat down dejectedly. Sadly, he had been passed over once again.

"Hey, buddy," Roberto said as he sat down next to Gerald.

"Hey," Gerald replied softly.

"What happened?"

"I suppose I didn't want it enough; not enough to put myself out there. It's possible that I never will."

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