One minute, I’m cleaning tables at my job, a cozy local restaurant, when the past barges back into my life uninvited. There, in front of me, is Heather Parker—the girl who made high school a nightmare. Her laugh is unmistakable as she strolls in, flanked by her loyal sidekicks, Hannah and Melissa.
They don’t recognize me right away, but Heather quickly spots me and makes a loud jab about me still wiping tables, mocking my life. Her cruel words hit like they always did in high school. But this time, I don’t stay quiet. Before I can react, my coworkers, Jack and Maria, step in to defend me. Heather tries to brush them off, but the support keeps coming, with Sarah, our bartender, backing us up.
Then, in a moment of calm, I step forward and drop the bomb: *I’m the manager here. In fact, I own the place.* Heather’s smugness vanishes instantly, replaced with panic. The whole restaurant erupts in applause as my team rallies around me, and Heather’s bravado evaporates.
Jack pats me on the back, calling me the best boss anyone could ask for, and Sarah tells Heather to leave. With no fight left, Heather stammers an apology before her and her friends scurry out the door.
The room lightens, and as the buzz settles, I can’t help but smile. Years ago, I would’ve let Heather’s words hurt me, but now? Now, I’m standing in a place I built, surrounded by people who respect me. Karma, served with a side of justice.
