She hesitated, then nodded. “Lauren has been late… left early… and sometimes, when you were away, she brought her boyfriend.”
The words struck him hard.
“Why didn’t you tell me?”
“It’s not my place, sir. I was afraid.”
Afraid. The word lingered.
He learned then that Margaret supported her ill sister and her sister’s children. A rare disease. Expensive treatments. No insurance coverage.
Her salary was their lifeline.
Jonathan felt something shift inside him. He, surrounded by unimaginable wealth, had never seen the quiet battles fought in his own home.
“Thank you,” he said sincerely. “For everything.”
Tears welled in her eyes.
He didn’t sleep that night. After sending Margaret to rest, he stayed with his children until dawn, replaying the image of her sleeping on the floor.
By morning, his decisions were made.
At 8 a.m., Lauren arrived with a rehearsed excuse about a migraine.
Jonathan waited in his office.
“Ms. Mitchell, I am aware of your absences, your visitors, and your abandonment of my children last night.”
Her face drained of color.
“There is nothing to discuss. Your employment is terminated effective immediately. My attorneys will contact you regarding breach of contract and negligence.”