A co-worker complains

Michael headed back to his office, intending to throw a few things together and head home for the weekend. He was locking his desk when someone stepped into his office.

"So what reward did golden boy get?" a sarcastic voice asked.

Michael looked up to see Carol, another executive who had worked with him on the latest project. He shook his head in irritation and stood up pocketing his keys.

"Just a little thank you from the boss. Not everyday that a contract that size closes."

She stepped into his office and shut the door, leaning against it. Her shiny black hair was tied in a bun at the back of her head, making her pretty face look austere and cold.

"You couldn't have done anything without help," she said. "Without my help."

"I know that, and I told him that."

"I just bet," she snorted, standing upright and glaring at him. Her trim body was in a severe black skirt suit, and he could see that it trembled slightly with her anger.

"Look, Carol, I know we don't always get along, but you were helpful, and I have told him that several times."

"Sure," she said bitterly. "You're sure good at taking credit too."

"I gave the whole team credit, Carol. Including you. But you believe what you like."

She pressed her lips together, her eyes glittering with anger.

They had joined the company within weeks of each other, and had both advanced quickly. Michael a little more quickly, partly because there was some prejudice in the company against women, but also because he was more results driven than her, and less interested in office rivalries.

He looked at her and shook his head. "Look, Carol, I'm just doing my job the best way I know how. I'm not interested in stealing credit from anyone."

"Oh bullshit. You didn't spend an hour with the boss just getting a pat on the back. What did he give you that he's not giving me?"

A mischievous imp stirred in Michael, putting the next words into his mouth.

"Why don't you go in and ask for the same thing, Carol? I'm sure he could be convinced to give it to you."

And with that Michael put on his suit jacket, picked up his briefcase, and brushed by Carol on his way out the door.