I cut it off two months ago. Regina was getting into my business, asking questions. Where does a bank employee get money for Vegas? How can you afford a new car? Then she wants a bigger diamond on her finger. That’s the problem with embezzling, someone gets greedy. I told her a half-truth, I had a promotion that came with a bigger salary. I worked hard for the new role, seven years from teller to systems, then made the jump to financial advisor. Fact was this promotion was lateral, no salary increase but a nice new name tag and a private office to handle, or mishandle as the case may be, seniors’ finances. They never miss the small amounts I skim, easy money.
My office backs onto the parking lot, I saw her pull in. Regina has a look of ‘that bastard’ on her face, I quickly grab my lunch and head for the exit. “Mel, I’m taking an early lun…” Just then Regina walks in and comes toward with the same ballsy attitude she’s always had. “I need to talk with you now!” loud enough to turn heads. I give her my warmest smile, “Nice timing, join me for lunch.” I smile at Mel and take Regina by the hand out to the parking lot where she clocks me on the side of the head with her purse. “I know what you’re doing, how could you? I want back in!” I have little choice, it’s a business decision now.