Ice down the back of my jeans. I have had it, damnit!
How much more of this do I have to put up with?! If it weren't for Rudy's dad, I'd have left this place in the dust. As it is, I've got a great case for a sexual harassment lawsuit. I swore to Rudy I'd punch him in the nuts and still he's on me.
"Aaaaaaaannnnnnndrewwwwwww, come and chase meeeeee!" he whines, and he's off around the side of the building.
"Mr. Marinaro -- I'm sorry, but you have talk to Rudy. I've been very patient and tolerant, but we've had this conversation once too many times and I'm ready to quit ."
Vincent Marinaro looks at me with sad, tired eyes; but I'm so livid I can't sit still. How can such a decent man like him turn out such a freak like Rudy?
He offers me a raise.
We've gone down this road before. I bring up my problem with Rudy and he gives me more money. He does this because he needs me -- I'm the best planner he's got; but he can't afford this -- and frankly it's gotten to the point that no amount of money or loyalty is going to keep me here .
"Can I be straight with you?" I ask. He laughs a sad, tired laugh. At least the guy still has a sense of humor. "You're going to have to deal with Rudy. Get him into therapy -- anything. He's putting your business on the line here!!! Look, Vince, you've been great to me, that's why I'm still here."
He wells up.
"Business is down. You're the best manager he's got. Since my wife died, Rudy's been acting...I don't know anymore. He needs somebody. He needs attention. He--he likes you..." He really meant that Rudy was obsessed with me.
I tell him, I'm sorry but -- And it goes on and on...
I get a call later from the best catering company on Melrose Avenue -- a five star company with stellar clients. I should call them back. Tell them I'm on my way. Instead, I'm standing here, in my office, looking at Mr. Marinaro scream at Rudy, who's crying and pissed off.
I feel like a shit. For Rudy. For Vince. For me. I'm a sap.
I turn down the offer.
