Chapter 5 SACK LETTER

Chapter 5

Isla POV

"Good morning! I greeted the manager of the coffee shop where I've been working as a barista, but he seemed busy and didn't respond. I didn't let it faze me, though, I walked in with confidence and purpose.

As I slid open the glass door, I noticed a new face delivering coffee to customers. I took a deep breath and accepted that I was running a bit behind schedule, but I was surprised to see a new staff member without any prior announcement."

"Hey team, I waved enthusiastically, bouncing on my toes as I headed to the kitchen. 'Isla,' I heard my name called, and I turned swiftly, a smile spreading across my face. "Good morning, sir," I greeted again, reminding him that I had already tried to greet him earlier, but he seemed unresponsive.

He handed me a letter, his gaze remaining stern. 'Am I supposed to read this for you?' I asked softly, my voice tinged with concern and curiosity. 'Just read it and stop asking silly questions,' he replied gruffly, leaning against the counter."

I took the letter, my heart racing with anticipation. What could it be about? I unfolded the paper and began to read, my eyes scanning the page quickly.

As I read, my expression changed from curiosity to shock. The letter was a termination notice, stating that my services as a barista were no longer needed. I felt a pang of disappointment and disbelief. What had I done wrong?

I looked up at the manager, who was still leaning against the counter, watching me with a stern expression. "Is this some kind of joke?" I asked, trying to keep my voice steady.

He shook his head. "No, Isla. Your performance has been subpar, and we've decided to let you go."

I felt a surge of anger and frustration. "Subpar?" I repeated, my voice rising. "I've always been on time, I've always done my job to the best of my ability. What more could you want?"

The manager sighed. "It's not just about showing up and doing the bare minimum, Isla. It's about attitude, teamwork, and dedication. And unfortunately, you've been lacking in all three." He paused, his expression stern. "Your recent display of attitude towards our valued customer, Mr. Xander, was unacceptable. We can't risk losing him, and I can't have you compromising our business relationships."

I felt a surge of anger and hurt, my words tumbling out in a passionate defense. "How dare you! I've been committed to this business, pouring my heart and soul into every cup I've made. And this is how you repay me? By criticizing me in front of everyone?" My voice rose, my eyes blazing with indignation. "And as for your personal life, maybe your lack of marital success has nothing to do with your age or menopause, but rather your own shortcomings as a human being!"

The manager's expression turned red with anger, but I didn't back down, my words hanging in the air like a challenge.

"I've had enough!" I exclaimed, flinging the letter back at him and snatching up my handbag. I stormed out of the office, leaving him standing there, stunned and glaring at me. I could feel his eyes burning with anger, but I didn't care. I was furious. The door slammed shut behind me, the sound echoing through the hallway. I muttered under my breath, "What a joyless, sadistic person he is!"

As I walked away, I couldn't help but feel a sense of liberation wash over me. I was done with that toxic work environment and the manager's constant belittling. I took a deep breath, feeling the cool air fill my lungs, and began to walk out of the building.

"Xander will regret this," I fumed, still reeling from the injustice. "He owes me for my hard work, but instead, he takes away my job?" I rummaged through my purse, only to realize I had left my phone on the counter. "Blast it!" I cursed, remembering the manager's condescending words. "What a stubborn, obstinate person!"

I stormed back into the office, determined to retrieve my phone. The manager was still standing there, looking smug. "What are you doing here, Isla?" he asked, his tone dripping with sarcasm. I glared at him, my anger boiling over. "I'm here for my phone, you coward!" I snapped, my voice icy. I snatched my phone and turned to leave, my eyes flashing with indignation.

I dialed Sophy's number, waiting anxiously by the nearby fuel station for her to answer. The sound of cars driving by and the hum of the fuel pumps filled the air as I stood there, my mind racing with thoughts of my unexpected termination. After what felt like an eternity, Sophy finally picked up, her cheerful voice a welcome respite from my frustration.

"Hey, girl! What's up?" Sophy asked, her voice bright and cheerful.

"I just got fired," I blurted out, my emotions boiling over.

There was a pause on the other end of the line. "What? How did that happen? You're an amazing barista!"

I sighed, feeling a lump form in my throat. "The manager said I had a bad attitude and wasn't a team player. But I know it's because I stood up to Xander the very day he came by the shop to get coffee.

Sophy's voice turned fierce. "That jerk! I always knew he was a piece of work. But don't worry, we'll get through this together. Where are you?"

I looked around, taking in the familiar sights of the fuel station. "I'm just down the street from the coffee shop. I was too angry to drive anywhere else."

"Stay put, I'm coming to get you," Sophy said, her voice full of determination. "We'll figure out our next move over coffee, or maybe something stronger."

I smiled, feeling a sense of relief wash over me. "Okay, princess, just come and pick me up. Let's drive around and figure out our next move," I said, trying to sound more upbeat.

Sophy chuckled and the call ended. Within minutes, she called back. "Guess what? I just got you a job as a babysitter!" she exclaimed.

I was taken aback. "A babysitter?!" I repeated, my voice laced with disbelief. "Sophy, I'm a barista, not a babysitter!"