Chapter 6: The Cost-Cutting Trap

Mark Johnson had taken over a year ago. On day one, he talked about layoffs and cutting costs. The next day, he called me in—said the company was struggling and asked if I’d resign voluntarily.

I was stunned. “What?”

He tried to sugarcoat it: “Matt, don’t get me wrong—I recognize your ability.”

I smirked. “But Mark, I bring in 70% of the department’s orders. Are you serious?”

I was employee of the year, always the top earner. But now he wanted me gone?

Mark explained, “Your salary’s too high, so…”

I understood right away—seniority pay made me expensive. He figured I wasn’t irreplaceable. I told him I’d resign, but only if we talked compensation.

He tried to lowball me—$600 after four years. I refused. He raised it to $3,000, said that was the cap. I still wouldn’t budge. Talks broke down, and he left me alone—so I thought it was over.

When Eric was assigned to me, I didn’t suspect a thing. Never thought they were uncle and nephew. Now it’s too late to regret not being careful. Let’s see if this lousy company can withstand an investigation.

I scrolled through my phone, rereading old company group texts about ‘team spirit’ and ‘mutual respect.’ What a joke. The smell of stale coffee in the break room was more bitter than ever.