12/31/23
Joe sighed and signed the papers.
"Maybe Vera will take me back to my old position." he muttered and went to his car, got in and drove.
When he got where he was going he parked and sat there quietly.
Then he sighed, got out and walked inside.
People were shocked and opened their mouths but he shook his head telling them to be quiet for a surprise and they nodded.
When he saw Vera she was in her office with someone.
'Must be her partner.' he thought feeling a little hurt he was replaced.
Then he watched the man walk out and they looked at each other.
"You must be Joe. I'm leaving so she's all yours if you're back." Aiden said and left.
"Huh?" Joe said and looked at the others for help but they shrugged. "OK Then." he said and walked over to Vera's office and knocked on the door.
"Come in." Vera said and he opened the door and she looked at him. "Joe?"
"Hey." he said and waved.
"What are you doing here pet?"
"I uh, came to ask for me job back ma'am."
"What about Celine and the kids?"
"She uh, divorced me this morning. She has full custody of the kids so I can only see them on holidays." he said and looked at her and then the others. "I couldn't stay there. So I decided to come back."
"I'm sorry Joe."
"I knew it was gonna happen soon anyway."
"Well, you're just in time. Aiden was just promoted and you are welcome back any time." she said smiling and he smiled and sat down.
"So, what have we got this time?" he asked and she smiled and got started.
When they were done Vera let him stay at her place until he found his own.
Joe was welcomed back by everyone and by the end of the week he felt like he was home and not going anywhere until he retires.