Backdraft

SYIC: Part 1: Survival — Chapter 34

Change often comes when we least expect it. It can happen at any time, anywhere. Jack knew this all too well; it was on an ordinary Tuesday that his world had been blown to smithereens.

But as the hours waned on his second-to-last day in the office, he reflected on the present tense, his uncertain situationship with Shannon, his pending exodus from upstate New York, and the looming snowstorm forecast for the following week that could derail it all.

He stood in the copy room as the color copier sputtered out the latest batch of Farm Bureau newsletters. Across the room, Judy was collating at the converted lunch table amid stacks of USPS trays, rubber bands, and placards listing ZIP codes.

Grabbing the newest batch, she walked over toward the table, sank into her chair, and continued the production line without missing a beat.

“Jack, I have some news. I’ve accepted a new role as a dairy director out of state. So, this will be the last time I help you with this monstrosity.”

Jack paused, wrinkled his nose, and said, “Really? When? Where are you going?”

“Oh, I’m moving home. Back to Gramma’s. Limon, Colorado. Similar job at a small dairy co-op. Never thought I’d be here this long. Next Friday will be my last day. But since you’re gonna be out…