Her Office
In the cutthroat world of big law, Samantha knew how to play the game. She was close to becoming the first female Managing Partner of a major Boston law firm, and her competition was sitting in her office.
"I wish you all the best," Yvonne said with the fakest of smiles as she raised her mug of coffee in salute. "May the most talented woman win."
Samantha smiled back, more sincerely. "Good luck to you, as well. I think either of us could do an amazing job in that position."
As with most office feuds, the rivals were best friends in the office. In many ways, big law firms are like Game of Thrones. However, instead of using swords, people use verbal abilities to cut down their opponents.
Samantha wondered what strategy her 'friend' had in mind as they eyed each other with phony smiles. It took guts to sit down, face to face, as drama unfolded behind them.
Could this really be a peace offering?
Doubtful.
"By the way," Yvonne said with another wide smile, flipping her hair. "Is your son still coming to intern for you this summer?"
Samantha's poker face was of award-winning caliber as she held herself together. Internally, she seethed at the idea that her son might be dragged into the fray. This battle had just reached a new low!
She briefly re-considered having her son intern here for the summer. But she realized her 'friend' would win this round if she backed off so easily. And her son would suffer if he lost a chance to intern at this powerful law firm.
"Oh, he'll be here," Samantha said with a laugh. "He's really excited to come work with me in my office."
"I'm sure. So, is he still interested in becoming a lawyer?"
"Definitely. He sees himself in law. It must run in his genes," she shrugged, trying to look nonchalant.
"Ohhh. More importantly, is he single?"
Samantha laughed. "Yeah, he is, actually."
Yvonne winked. "Just think how nice it would be to work with him every day. But then again, he's become so handsome that you'd probably spend half your time fighting off all the single women in this building."
Now the claws were out, full force! Outwardly, of course, they continued to smile and giggle.
Samantha was positive that her best friend would use her son as a weapon. With the right tactics, it was definitely doable. Having her son in the office could be used to make Samantha look more like a nagging mother than a powerful attorney. Women are experts at making each other look weak.
"Well, Chris is focused on his future," Samantha countered. "As a matter of fact, a few of the Partners have met him and they think he's a great fit to intern at this firm."
It was pleasing to see Yvonne wince. Recovering quickly, the rival's expression slowly morphed into a grin.
Yvonne reached into her pocket. "Oh, I almost forgot! There's something I want to show you. I hope you don't mind."
"Why would I mind?"
"Jealousy, maybe. It's a beautiful little watch. I bought it from an antique store last year and the owner showed me how to use it in case of an emergency. Would you like to see it?"
It was gold, weathered with age, and hung on a chain.
Samantha shrugged. "Sure, why not? It's very pretty."
"Okay, great. Promise you won't hate me though. I sincerely hope we can still be friends once this is all over, no matter who gets the top spot at this firm."
"Absolutely."
Yvonne held out the small timepiece and slowly swung it back and forth.
Back and forth.
Back and forth...
Ladies Room
Two weeks later. Samantha was adamant that this was the proudest moment of her life. Seeing her son stand in her office, wearing a sharp suit and carrying a briefcase almost brought a tear to her eye.
"What a dream come true!" she said, unable to contain her glee.
Lunging forward, she hugged him forcefully. It was the kind of embrace she had given Chris millions of times, but never while they both wore suits. It was a feeling Samantha enjoyed.
Chris laughed. "Thanks, mom. I guess I owe it all to you."
"Yep, that's right," she said, letting go of him. "I worked my butt off in this law firm and now you're reaping the benefits. Don't you forget it, handsome."
Samantha did what came naturally and fixed Chris's outfit, ensuring an immaculate appearance. Her fingers worked nimbly to straighten his tie and then smooth his jacket.
He laughed. "Okay, okay. I really appreciate it. It'll be fun working together."
Time suddenly stood still for Samantha as those words echoed in her head.
...fun working together...
Oddly, that phrase seemed to trigger an unusual response in Samantha. It was as if she had just experienced a burst of adrenaline. Her pulse quickened and she began to feel restless. Confused, her eyes narrowed and tried to determine why she felt so unnerved.
She shook her head, snapping out of it.
"Remember, this is a huge opportunity," she reminded. "An internship at this firm will brighten your resume. So make your efforts worthwhile."
"Trust me. I know what an opportunity it is to work here."
She playfully pinched his nose. "That's my guy."
"And if I decide to go to law school?" he asked with charm. "
"You'd want a job here," she confirmed with a raised eyebrow.
"Yeah, I mean, that would be great, wouldn't it? Something reasonable. I'd expect to start at the very bottom and work my way up."
"That could be interesting. I'd boss you around all day, though."
"I'm used to that," he joked. "Just kidding. But we're around each other all the time. I'm sure we'd get along working together in the office."
Once again, those words seemed to trigger a strange reaction in Samantha's mind. Her entire body froze and she had a deer-in-the-headlights look.
"Ummm... mom?" he asked. "Are you okay?"
