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turning to page one
turning to page one
There is a more senior looking Human Resources lawyer, LAUREN BRATBERG, already sitting at the table. They all sit and look at each other for a beat.
LAUREN BRATBERG
Well... Mr. Dale I’m obviously sorry that
we are here today but these are extra
ordinary times as you very well must
know.
ERIC
I run risk management... it just doesn’t
seem like a natural place to start
cutting.
HEATHER
I hope you understand that this is in no
way personal. A majority of this floor is
being let go today.
ERIC
OK
HEATHER
Mr. Dale. Ms. Bratberg is now going to
run through the details of what the firm
is offering.
ERIC
OK
LAUREN BRATBERG slides across the table a very thick severance contract agreement.
LAUREN BRATBERG
Mr. Dale the firm is offering you six
months severance at half your salary. You
will keep all unvested options that you
currently hold. Health will be extended
through that period. You have till
tomorrow at...
She looks at her watch.
LAUREN BRATBERG (cont’d)
4:47 to either take the offer or it will
be revoked. Do you understand?
ERIC
Yes.
LAUREN BRATBERG
Now, unfortunately Mr. Dale due to the
highly sensitive nature of your work here
the firm has to take certain precautions
for security purposes that may seem
punitive in nature. I hope considering
your...
SHE looks down at the piece of paper in front of her to fact
LAUREN BRATBERG (cont’d)
...over 19 years of service to the firm,
you will understand that these measures
are in no way a reflection of the firms’
feelings towards your performance or your
character.
ERIC
I’m sorry??
HEATHER
She’s apologizing for what’s about to
happen.
LAUREN BRATBERG
Your company email, access to the server,
access to the building, and your mobile
data and phone service will all be
severed as of this meeting. This
gentleman...
She points behind him and a smallish benign looking SECURITY GUARD is standing in the doorway.
LAUREN BRATBERG (cont’d)
will take you to your office so that you
can clear out your personal belongings.
ERIC
What about my current ongoing work? I’m
right in the...
LAUREN BRATBERG
The firm has worked out its transition
plan and is prepared to move forward, but
we appreciate your concern.
HEATHER
We understand that this is very difficult
and here is my card. Please contact me
over the next few weeks if there is
anything that I can do to help you
through this transition in your life.
They all stare at each other in silence for several long awkward beats.
SECURITY GUARD
Sir?
ERIC finally stands up and walks out with the guard and back over to his office.