I never thought I’d see the bullies from high school again, especially not at my own business. But life can surprise us, and sometimes those shocks make us pay for it right away.
My thoughts were elsewhere as I wiped the tables until I heard Heather Parker’s clear laughter. Heather Parker was the socialite who made my high school years a living hell. Her voice took me back to a time when her mean words and laughs could break my heart.
Heather walked into my restaurant with her faithful helpers, Hannah and Melissa. She gave off an air of superiority. The moment her eyes met mine, she smiled in a sneaky way.
She sneered so loudly that everyone could hear, “Look who’s still cleaning tables!” “Guess this was your ultimate goal in life?” Her friends laughed, which made me feel bad, and my face turned red.
But before I could do anything, my coworkers stepped in and stood together against Heather’s poison. Our sous-chef, Jack, stood tall and spoke in a strong but calm voice. “You don’t talk to her like that.” Maria, our head cook, joined him with a fierce look on her face. “We don’t tolerate disrespect here.”
Our bartender, Sarah, added her backing with a steady gaze. “We don’t serve people with attitudes like yours.” Heather’s grin started to fade, and be replaced by surprise and doubt.
After that, I chose to tell the whole truth. I washed my hands, looked Heather in the eye, and told her, “You’ve already talked to the manager.” Take a break. “I own this place.”
The room went quiet, and Heather’s face changed from cocky to shocked. My team cheered, whistled, and applauded as they celebrated my win.
Heather’s friends quickly lost their confidence, and she stuttered as she tried to find the right words. Sarah spoke up with a strong voice. It’s time for you to go. We don’t need bad vibes around here.”
Heather’s exit was quick and made her look bad. The bell above the door rang as it shut behind her, and I felt a weight lift off my shoulders.
My coworkers crowded around me, beaming with joy. Jack gave me a back pat. “Best boss ever.” Maria smiled. “You’re not just a manager; you’re family.”
I smiled because I felt right. I laughed and said, “Karma with a side of justice.”” I wasn’t the victim this time; I was the winner, and the people around me loved me just the way I was.
I realized at that moment that real power doesn’t come from getting even, but from rising above. And getting instant karma can be the best prize of all times.
