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Pushing off the bed, I say, “I need to go.”

“Oh, okay.”

I grab my suitcase and open it on the bed. “No, I mean, I need to get to the airport.”

“Ah. Yes. I think you do. Have a safe trip, and I hope you find what you’re looking for.”

“I already have if it’s not too late.”

“It’s never too late to make amends. Love you.”

“Love you, too, Mom.” I toss the phone on the bed and open the wardrobe to grab my suits to pack. But then stop and look at them. They’re suits. I’m not going on a business trip. I’m going to get a life back.Everything I need is already in New York City.

When I was a kid working in this company's mailroom, I remember a quote that hung above the door. Setbacks don’t determine your fate. If you overcome them does.

I always thought it would make more sense if it saidhowyou overcome them does.

But now I get it. Some people will hit an obstacle, and that’s where their story ends. Others won’t let anything stand in their way.

“I’m sorry, sir. There are no available seats on any flights to JFK or LaGuardia tonight. Not in coach, business, or first class. And the standby list is ten people long. We can usually only accommodate three or four. I’m happy to book you on the first available flight in the morning.” Her eyes lower to the screen, and her fingers furiously tap on the keyboard. “I have first class on a six fifteen flight to JFK?”

Setting my card down, I say, “I’ll take it.”Fuck. I need to get to New York. I need to get to her. I need . . .Maybe I need this time.

I stop and think. Why couldn’t I get the flightIwanted?

Maybe it’s time I need right now.

I spend that time putting a new plan in place and attaching an ultimatum of my own. At three forty-seven in the morning, I push send to the advisory board, my parents, and Nick.

At three forty-nine, my phone rings. I know who it is before I see the name on the screen. Makes sense because he’s three hours ahead. “Hello?”

“Brav-fucking-o, brother. That’s the kind of message I like to wake up to.”

I pack my laptop in my travel bag. “So you approve?”

“Not of you quitting. Of your list of demands, that was a CEO talking there. Either way this pans out, you win. I’m proud of you for taking a stand.”

Even I, with the confidence of an elementary school science fair champion, still like to get my family’s approval. “Thanks. How do you think Dad will react?”

“I think he’ll be proud you finally figured your shit out.” Nick gets up early to work out like I do, so it doesn’t surprise me that he sounds wide-awake. “Upside, the plan from what I’m seeing right now is solid. If the account managers can’t do their job and keep their clients happy, then you can take the larger portfolios. But you can do that from anywhere and just fly in a couple of times a year.”

“That’s why it’s there. There’s no need for me to sit in an office to placate a few clients.” I’m proud of the proposal I put together. This had been on my mind all week, but traveling here had its benefits. Seeing where I’m best utilized cemented the direction I need to steer the company. I won’t kowtow to a few clients on their whims. I have a record of success to back why I decide how to run this company, and it’s time I take that power back.

I continue, “The bottom line is, this is not personal. It’s business. If they want the best, I’ll work with them directly. If they want to leave, that’s their choice. But I have a say in my fate moving forward.”

“I agree. I’ll work on updating the client contracts for them and put you as the lead. It will be ready to sign on tomorrow.”

“Thanks, Nick.” Sinking down on the couch, I ask, “Have I told you recently that I think you’re doing a good job?”

“You never tell me that.”

“Probably best,” I say. “It’s good to see you motivated to please the boss.” Laughter bellows from his gut he’s laughing so hard. “Hey, you’re doing a good job.”

“Thanks. You’re not so bad yourself.”

“On a personal note, what do you think about Juni?”

“What I think doesn’t matter, but if you’re asking if I approve, she’s a great girl and way out of your league.”