Bob had heard it more times than he cared to. Ted this, Ted that. Well, where the hell was Ted? he thought. Ted was the savior, the new director who would change things and turn them all into geniuses. After the last financial report we were told we were geniuses, he recalled. So why would they even consider a new boss?

“I have just received a call from Ted,” the Chief Of Operations announced over the intercom. What miraculous deed has the Mighty Ted performed now? Bob thought sarcastically. “It appears Ted has opted for a position with another firm. He will not be coming here.

It would appear our COO is about to retreat to a previous assessment of the staff, Bob thought not considering the COO’s ego; he would never retreat.

“To increase the efficiency of the laboratory, Dr. John Hanks will be assuming the position of Laboratory Director. I’m sure you will do all you can to assist him as he applies his talents to the overall functions of each department.”

Dr. Hanks was promoted from Department Head of Chemistry to Laboratory Director? He doesn't know a damned thing about Microbiology or Immunology, Bob thought shaking his head. I suppose it is my duty to teach him all he needs to know to properly run my department.

Two weeks later Laboratory Director, Dr. John Hanks called Department Head, Dr. Bob Stevens into his office. “I am taking over the Immunology Department,” he told the stunned Bob.

“What do you know about Immunology?” a recovering Dr. Stevens asked.”What makes you think you can run the department better than I can?”

“You have a good Department Supervisor, Marsha Goodrich. I know I can count on her. If I give her a project she can perform it without my standing over her. You are extra baggage.

“Are you prepared to run the Microbiology Department as well?”

“I am!”

“So, are you asking me to leave?”

“I am!”

After leaving the laboratory positions Bob continued to remain in contact with several Department Heads who continuously feared for their positions. Two months following his dismissal from the laboratory, Dr. Ken Wallis informed Bob that Dr. Hanks no longer worked there. He was terminated due to complaints from Marsha Goodrich.

Mountain Justice, Bob thought while smiling.

By Robert L. Scarry

From: United States

Twitter: usnavy1990bob

Facebook URL: https://www.facebook,com/robert.scarry.3