Chapter 30
CHAPTER 30: THE CHICAGO OFFER
The ultimate test of Michael’s transformation arrived in a sleek, black leather portfolio.
The executive board of his firm offered him a promotion. Senior Vice President of National Acquisitions.
It came with a staggering salary increase. Stock options. A corner office with a panoramic view of the city.
It also came with a requirement: eighty percent travel. Four days a week on the road, flying between Chicago, New York, and Los Angeles.
Five years ago, Michael would have accepted the pen, signed the contract before the meeting ended, and come home to tell Emma to pack his bags.
Michael sat in the boardroom, looking at the managing partners.
He thought of the bright red toaster. He thought of Barnaby snoring on the rug. He thought of Oliver’s neon-yellow winter coat.
He closed the leather portfolio.
"I am honored by the offer," Michael said, his voice completely steady. "But I have to decline."
The senior partner blinked, stunned. "Michael, this is the pinnacle. This is what you've been working for your entire career."
"I used to think so," Michael agreed. "But my priorities have shifted. I am an asset to this firm, and I will continue to be. But I am a father and a husband first. I don't miss dinner on Tuesdays anymore."
He walked out of the boardroom.
He didn't feel a single ounce of regret. He felt like a man who had just dodged a bullet he used to beg people to shoot him with.
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When he came home and told Emma, she looked at him with tears in her eyes.
He didn't ask for praise. He just asked what she wanted on her pizza.
