Accomplice

When we returned after seven years
the economy was in hibernation
vacancies a prom queen
multiple suitors
best behaviour queues.

It’s not what I would have chosen
but after 14 months choice wasn’t
if acceptance was a wine
tasting notes would have read
a surge of gratitude …. relief the long taste.

She asked why I was leaving
candour said too many staff had been here too long
assertive had evolved to aggressive
their manner best described as courteous hostility.
Did she know what I meant?
“No.”

Resignation must be written
reasons to be stated
a requirement for HR protocols.
A pause.

Concern makes its first appearance
musing out loud –  as if just thought of
personnel records remain on file
available to auditors from head office.
Just write something brief
about departure to pursue new opportunities.

Eyes meet.
Dishonesty as request – not instruction.
Protest forms and then remembers
14 months of breath held wish
and envelope crushed hope.
Gratitude had made repayment in full. Relief still owed her.