That’s How They Burn Bridges

Back in 2014, I was driving home from going clothes shopping for my new job, which I was starting in a week, when my car literally caught on fire with me and my then four-year-old son in it. I had just bought $200 worth of clothes, AND my laundry was in my car from the laundromat (including my work shirt and white lab coat).

I had already given my notice to my boss that I was leaving, and the next day (Monday), I called in to tell her what had happened and that I would not be in due to smoke inhalation issues and needing to go buy a new car.

This was supposed to be my last day.

Boss: “You need to return your three work shirts and both lab coats, or you’ll have the costs garnished from your last check.”

Me: “They are a pile of ash at the salvage yard.”

Boss: “You have to bring them in.”

Me: “Okay. Will do.”

Insert eye roll and a certain finger flashing from my side of the phone. 

Tuesday, I walked in with a picture of my laundry basket melted in my car and a Ziplock filled with ashes and mud. I recorded myself giving them to her and telling her again what happened. I got a side-eye and a “WTF?!”

I walked out with a smirk.

I’ve been at the new job for ten years. Best move I ever made.