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The Hard Goodbye
The narrator is struggling to cope with the sudden loss of their friend and mentor, Aggie Shaw, who died of a sudden illness. The narrator is overwhelmed with grief and finds it impossible to return to work as usual, despite their boss's expectations. They start using their paid time off to deal with their emotions and try to come to terms with the loss. The narrator's friend Megan reaches out and offers to meet up, providing a much-needed listening ear and a sense of comfort. During their meeting, the narrator opens up about their feelings and frustrations with their job, and Megan suggests that they could start their own IT group with equal partners. The narrator is inspired by the idea and starts to explore options, including going freelance and starting a new business with Megan. As they research and plan, they find a sense of purpose and excitement, despite the risks and uncertainties. The narrator returns to work, but only to give their two-week notice and start making plans for a new future. They find a symbol of Aggie's presence, a rubber duck, in her old office, which gives them a sense of connection and motivation to move forward. The narrator is determined to leave their old job behind and start a new chapter in their life, with Megan by their side. The narrator's decision to leave their job is not just about escaping a difficult work environment, but about finding a new sense of purpose and fulfillment.