Navigating Workplace Tension and Unexpected Requests
Working at a small tech company often felt like being part of a close-knit family. I started as a customer service representative, but things shifted when our office manager resigned and was replaced by Sarah, a former billing representative who had become the new chief manager.
From the start, Sarah seemed to have a problem with me. Despite my consistent performance and positive feedback from customers, she nitpicked my work. My husband, who worked in a different department, noticed the tension but stayed focused on his own tasks. Sarah’s brother, who also worked there, never mentioned anything unusual.
The atmosphere at work became more strained, particularly during performance reviews. While my colleagues received significant raises, Sarah gave me a minimal increase without explanation. My complaints to the owner were dismissed, attributed to Sarah’s long tenure with the company.
Things took an odd turn when I noticed Sarah’s unusual interest in my husband. She would watch him and even followed him around. One evening, I discussed this with Tom, my husband, in our living room.
“Tom,” I said, “I’ve noticed Sarah acting oddly around you at work. It’s making me uncomfortable.”
Tom put down his mug and listened carefully. “I’ve seen it too, Anna,” he admitted. “But I’ve made it clear that I’m not interested in anything beyond a professional relationship.”
I was relieved by his reassurance but still troubled. “It’s just unsettling. Why would she act this way? It’s so unprofessional.”
Tom agreed that it was unusual and unsettling, and he assured me he would continue to keep his distance.
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