My dad peers around the room. “It’s important for everyone to understand just how significant this announcement is. The future of Legacy Inc—and our family’s legacy — rests on Dixon’s shoulders.”
As I grasp the significance of his words, a wave of responsibility washes over me. This is about carrying on a tradition, and proving to my family — and myself — I can step into Dad’s shoes. Why do I even second guess myself when I help companies every day?
“Dixon, are you ready?”
“Absolutely.”
“Congratulations!” My older brother, Jake, joins in, reaching across the table to give me a hearty pat on the back. Tears well up in my mom’s eyes, and she dabs them away with a napkin before rising from her seat. She walks around the table and envelopes me in a hug.
“Honey,” she whispers, her voice choked. “I’m proud of you. This is a new chapter in your life.”
“Thank you, Mom.”
Being the middle child, most times, makes me invisible. My two younger sisters get the most attention, obviously, and my two older brothers are the most harped on. Sometimes I’m left out altogether, but this is mine. Legacy Inc. is how I can keep my father being proud of me. My chance to prove to my brothers that just because they have Law Degrees doesn’t make thembetter than me. Legacy Inc. will flourish and be more successful than ever before under my reign.
“Alright, enough with the waterworks!” Dad says, his eyes twinkling. “This is supposed to be a celebration!”
“Of course, dear. We’re all so proud of you.”
It’s an immense responsibility, but I’m determined to do everything in my power to ensure its continued success—not just for me, but for my family.
“Can you believe it? You’re going to be the CEO!” Emily squeals as she pulls me into a tight hug.
“Oof, easy there, Em.” I chuckle. “I’m excited too, but I’d like to make it to my first day in one piece.”
“Sorry!” she releases me with a sheepish grin. “It’s just so exciting. You finally got your dream… maybe one day I will too.”
Mom wipes away her tears of joy and patting his arm. “We always knew this day would come. I couldn’t be prouder, sweetheart.”
“I won’t let you down.”
Here’s to the future. Let’s make it one for the books.
2
Chloe
I walk down the hallway of Legacy Inc. not sure what to expect today. My eyes lock on the door at the end. I have passed it countless times in the past decade, always with the goal of someday being in that office. The brass plate affixed to it read "Director"—a title I have yearned for since first stepping foot into this building. My current role has me pouring over marketing reports, strategizing campaigns, and cultivating relationships with clients to ensure their loyalty to the company. It means early mornings and late nights. All of this effort is not just to excel in my current role, but to secure the coveted director position. A position that, until recently, has been occupied by the same person who hired me.
Ten years.I come to a stop in front of the door.Never settle for less than you deserve.How different will my life be if I get this promotion and that office? No more playing second fiddle, no more biting my tongue during meetings when my idea is better. This is my chance to call the shots and lead the team to even greater heights.Today's the day!I clutch my portfolio tighter. Inside are my crafted plans and proposals.
For six days, I have been preparing for this interview. It’s been a long time coming, and don’t want anything standing inmy way. From the internal candidates, I am the best person for the job with my experience and degree.Alright. I straighten my shoulders and fix my gaze on the door once more.This is it. Time to show them what you're made of.With that, I take a deep breath, confidence surges through my veins like liquid gold, and prepare to make my move. The door to my destiny is right there—all I have to do is reach out and grab the brass handle. So I do.
The interview goes on for about an hour, and I nail it. I’m always over-prepared for meetings. They only have four people interviewing for the position, and I’m more than qualified. I go back to my office and can’t concentrate. My fingers tap against the polished mahogany desk, lost in thought, as I gaze at the framed photographs on my office walls. These are visual testaments to my prowess in marketing: successful campaigns for Legacy Inc's top clients that have taken the company's revenues to new heights. Surely, they are going to take into consideration the amount of revenue I have brought in since my arrival or even in the last year. My marketing campaigns have seen some of the best engagement and ROI than any other person in the Marketing department.
Master's degree in Business and a decade of hard work. I trace my finger along the edge of my diploma that hangs on the wall.I've more than earned my shot at Director.
The phone on my desk rings. I wait a moment before pressing the speaker button. “Ms. Jackson speaking.”
“Chloe! It's Ms. Johnson, Vice President of Human Resources.” The voice on the other end is warm, but professional. “I have some news for you.”
“Good news, I hope?” I ask, trying to inject some humor into the situation. My heart races, and I grip the edge of my desk.
“Indeed. After reviewing your impressive track record and considering your expertise, we've decided to offer you the position of Director.”
“Really?” I squeak.Girl, get it together. Be professional. A grin stretches from ear to ear.
“We believe you're the perfect fit for the job, and we're excited to see what you bring to the table.”
