Sonja walked into the office, three binders stacked in her arms. Her sleek brow lifted at the appearance of secretarial turmoil “What is happening here?”

All appearances of smirking on Jessica’s face made way for an expression of sweetness and light. “Oh, just a little re-organization, streamlining operations, moving the fluff out of the way.”

Sonja, who had been (a much better) head administrator before being promoted to director of operations, frowned. “Jessica, I believe we had a conversation where we discussed not referring to our colleagues as ‘fluff.’”

Jessica’s shrug was more of a wiggle of the shoulders, as if insulting Leonard wasn’t worth the full gesture. “Well, Sonja, change is necessary as we enter this new era for the Mystic Bayou facility. And we both know how difficult it is for people to accept change. Sometimes, you just have to guide them through it.”

Leonard did not appreciate being talked about like he wasn’t present … or smart enough to understand the conversation.

“I’m just trying to maximize the potential of the space while reducing confusion about our roles,” Jessica said

Sonja smiled patiently. “Jessica, you know I appreciate proactivity, but you don’t have the authority to make those decisions. The system that we’ve had in place for weeks works quite well, thank you. Please, put the desk back where it was.”

“But Mr. Lancaster gave me the—”

“I will discuss this with Mr. Lancaster. Put it back, please.” Sonja’s smile was just as cool as Jessica’s, though there was underlying bite to her voice as she added, “Now. Leonard, if you could join me in my office?”

He tried not to sneer at Jessica as he followed Sonja into her office. He really did. She sighed as she rounded the ever-growing display of plants that bloomed around her desk. Leonard flopped into the “guest” chair. “Thanks, Sonja.”

“Think nothing of it,” she said, waving his gratitude away as if knocking the wind out of the office bully’s sails was nothing. “Some people become administrators because they enjoy controlling small worlds in a universe that is pure chaos.” Sonja laid a slim, elegant hand against her delicate peach silk blouse.

“Other people become administrators because they like pushing people around,” she added. “I haven’t decided which Jessica is, but I hope she’s just trying to justify why her position is vital to the organization. I’m trying to be patient with her, but no matter what, I’ve got your back, Len. You were here first and you are far less annoying.”

“Thanks, Sonja.” Leonard pulled his phone out and they spent a few minutes reviewing her schedule, unanswered emails, and the duties they would be expected to cover during Jillian’s honeymoon and maternity leave. Leonard’s position would be more forward-facing, as he would be recording locals’ concerns.