Sarah asking questions that let Ethan explain rather than defend. When she finally called, cut her expression suggested genuine sympathy. That was powerful testimony, Mr. Carter. I think people will see you differently after this airs. The segment ran on Evening News at 5:00 and was online by 5:17.
Ethan watched it from Victoria's couch. Lily cuddled against his side. Victoria sitting in the chair across from them with tablet showing social media reactions in real time. The response was mixed but trending more positive than the morning's article. Comments praising Ethan's honesty.
People sharing their own stories of financial struggle. Parents relating to the exhaustion of working multiple jobs while raising children alone. Not universal approval. Plenty of people still thought Ethan was opportunist, but enough support that the narrative was shifting from gold digger targets CEO to hardworking father finds unexpected love. Victoria looked up from her tablet.
Expression carrying relief she'd been trying to hide. It's working. The tide's turning. But Ethan barely heard her because his phone was ringing with number. He recognized Kevin from the Regency Crown, his maintenance supervisor.
Kevin's voice was apologetic and resigned simultaneously. Carter, I need you to come in tomorrow morning. HR wants to talk to you. Ethan's stomach dropped. "Am I being fired?"
"The official position is that we're discussing your employment status in light of recent media attention. The unofficial position is that management is uncomfortable with maintenance worker who's now married to Sterling Capital CEO doing repairs in hotel where sterling executives hold business dinners. So yes, I'm being fired. I'm sorry, Ethan. You're good at your job.
I'd keep you if it were up to me, but this is coming from above my pay grade. Ethan ended the call and sat staring at his phone. His primary income source had just evaporated. $18 an hour, 40 hours a week, roughly 3,000 monthly before taxes. Gone. Because helping Victoria had made him too visible to remain anonymous maintenance worker.
Victoria was watching him with expression mixing guilt and calculation. "What happened?" "I'm losing my job at the hotel." Apparently, being married to you makes me too complicated to employ in service position. I'll make calls.
I can pressure them to no. Ethan's voice was sharper than intended. You've done enough. I agreed to help you knowing there'd be consequences. This is just consequences arriving faster than expected.
Ethan, you're losing income because you helped me. Let me fix this by calling my boss and using your wealth and power to force them to keep employing me. That'll really convince people I'm with you for reasons other than money. Victoria fell silent. They sat in uncomfortable quiet while Lily played with blocks, oblivious to adult problems that would eventually affect her.