Iceberg Effect - Part 3

Clarissa worked in a big office building downtown. She had gotten the job right out of college. She was happy with her work, but was always pushing herself and trying to move up in the company. Currently she had a mid level manager position in her sights, the next step on her career path.

“Good morning Margaret.” Clarissa greeted one of her older peers warmly one morning.

“Clarissa, what a pleasant surprise to see you in my cubicle first thing in the morning.” Margaret looked a little shocked, as she arrived at her work station for the day, but she thought Clarissa was just a doll, so it didn’t bother her.

“Well I heard you the other day saying how slow your computer was, so I had one of the boys in IT come and tune it up for you.” Clarissa informed with a smile.

“Oh Clarissa, you’re so thoughtful.” The older lady beamed as she placed her things down on an unoccupied spot on her desk.

“And wouldn’t you know it, one of the wheels on your desk chair broke when I went to sit down. Not a problem though, I knew we had a couple spares, so I grabbed one and replaced it for you. As good as new, give it a shot.” Clarissa gestured to have her co-worker take a set, which Margaret followed suit.

“Wow Clarissa you are just simply the best. If only the world could have more people like you.” The two women smiled happily. “Hey I brought in some donuts for the office, why don’t you have first dig at the options.” Margaret rewarded her for her good tidings.

Margaret opened the box of gourmet pastries and Clarissa took a moment to decide, fetching a jelly filled just a moment later. Clarissa thanked Margaret and took her leave so she could start her day now that her good turn was done. Things at work progressed nicely, Clarissa getting all of her work done easily. The only thing that happened out of the ordinary was the staff lunch that was ordered since it was Louie’s last day before retirement. Clarissa kept herself to salad since she had already indulged in a donut earlier, but after the event she could help herself from having a chocolate chip cookie the size of her face.

Quitting time came, and Clarissa gathered her things to get ready to leave. Before she could take off it was now Margaret who was visiting Clarissa at her cubicle. “Clarissa, there were some leftovers from lunch, I made you a take home container of pasta. Easy dinner, amiright? If I left it I know it would just go to waste. It's much better going home with you.”

“Thanks Margaret! I could use a night off from cooking at home.” Clarissa admitted. She was always one for trying to save money and eat healthy by making as much at home as she could. This pasta would be a nice one night break though. Pasta would not have been her first choice, but beggars can’t be choosers.

Clarissa accepted the meal and the two ladies left work for the night. When dinner time came Clarissa opened the doggy bag and was pleased to find that Margaret had included two of those cookies that she had liked so much.