A Novel by Mira Steffan

Two more job interviews followed in the next few weeks. But the salary expectations matched even less than those with UPPA Energie GmbH. After another two weeks, Charlotte was about to give up when the phone rang. It was Schuster: “Congratulations, Ms. Reimann.

We have decided in your favor. As far as you have not yet accepted with another company.”

Completely caught off guard, Charlotte answered only with a “No,” but then quickly added “I haven’t.”

“I’m glad to hear that. When can you come by so we can work out the details?”

They arranged to meet the next day. When Charlotte hung up the phone, she felt – nothing. And then the fears of failure hit her with force. It wasn’t until she signed the contract at the end of the week that she felt a tiny bit of joy and pride rise up inside her.

Charlotte held the letter of rejection in her hand and shook her head in annoyance. No place for Emma in the afternoon school care. But she would be put on the waiting list, the letter said. Surely, Charlotte thought sarcastically, my new employer will wait that long for me. Without further ado, she called her parents.

“No problem. I already offered it to you a while ago,” said her mother, who was unmistakably pleased.

Relieved, Charlotte hung up the phone after the conversation. How fortunate that her parents lived nearby. Work-life balance is a lie, she thought in frustration. Equality stops at starting a family.