Kyle Hunter trudged through the crowded streets of New York City, his eyes fixed on the pavement. He had just gotten off a 12-hour shift at the diner, and all he wanted to do was go home and collapse onto his bed.
As he walked, Kyle's mind wandered back to his struggles. He had been working multiple jobs just to make ends meet, but it seemed like no matter how hard he worked, he was still barely scraping by.
Kyle stopped at a street vendor to buy a hot dog and a soda. As he waited for his food, he couldn't help but feel a sense of restlessness. There had to be more to life than this constant struggle.
The vendor handed Kyle his food, and he took a big bite of the hot dog. The flavors exploded in his mouth, and for a moment, he forgot about his troubles.
As he continued walking, Kyle's thoughts turned to his job at the diner. He had been working there for three years, and he felt like he deserved a raise. The problem was, he was too afraid to ask.
Kyle had always been hesitant to speak up for himself, fearing rejection or disappointment. But as he walked through the city streets, he felt a growing sense of determination. He was going to ask for that raise, no matter what.
Kyle quickened his pace, his mind racing with thoughts of the conversation he would have with his boss. He rehearsed his lines, practicing his tone and his body language.
As he turned the corner onto his street, Kyle felt a sense of resolve. He was going to ask for that raise, and he was going to get it.
Kyle woke up early the next morning, feeling a sense of determination and purpose. He got dressed and headed to the diner, his mind focused on the conversation he was going to have with his boss.
As he clocked in and started prepping for the lunch rush, Kyle's boss, Mr. Alan, called him into the back office.
"Hey, Kyle, can I talk to you for a minute?" Mr. Alan asked, his expression serious.
Kyle's heart started racing as he wondered if he was in trouble. But he took a deep breath and reminded himself of his plan.
"Yeah, of course, Mr. Alan," Kyle replied, trying to sound calm.
Mr. Alan gestured for Kyle to take a seat, and Kyle sat down, his hands clasped together in his lap.
"I wanted to talk to you about your performance," Mr. Alan said, his expression softening. "You've been doing a great job, Kyle. You're one of our most reliable employees."
Kyle felt a surge of pride and confidence. This was the perfect opportunity to ask for a raise.
"Thanks, Mr. Alan," Kyle said, trying to sound casual. "I appreciate that. Actually, I was wondering if we could discuss my salary…"
Mr. Alan looked at Kyle with a hint of surprise, but then nodded for him to continue. "What did you have in mind, Kyle?" he asked.
Kyle took a deep breath and launched into his well-rehearsed speech. "I've been working here for three years, and I've consistently received positive reviews. I've taken on additional responsibilities and have been flexible with my scheduling. I believe I deserve a raise, considering my hard work and dedication to the diner."
Mr. Alan listened attentively, his expression unreadable. When Kyle finished speaking, he nodded thoughtfully. "I understand where you're coming from, Kyle. You've certainly been a valuable member of our team. Let me see what I can do."
Kyle's heart skipped a beat as he waited for Mr. Alan's response. He had been hoping for a positive outcome, but he wasn't sure what to expect.
After what felt like an eternity, Mr. Alan spoke up. "I can offer you a 10% raise, effective for the next pay period. What do you think?"
Kyle's face broke out into a wide smile. "That sounds great, Mr. Alan. Thank you!"
Kyle's face lit up with a smile as Mr. Alan told him the news. "I'm pleased to offer you a raise, Kyle," he said. "You'll be making $500 per week, starting next pay period."
Kyle couldn't believe it. He had been hoping for a raise, but he hadn't expected it to be this much. He felt a sense of relief and excitement wash over him.
"Thank you, Mr. Alan," Kyle said, trying to contain his enthusiasm. "I really appreciate it."
Mr. Alan smiled and nodded. "You're welcome, Kyle. You deserve it. You've been a hard worker and a valuable member of our team."
Kyle left the office feeling elated. He couldn't wait to tell his friends and family about the raise. He felt like he was finally getting the recognition he deserved.
As he walked out of the diner, Kyle felt a sense of pride and accomplishment. He had worked hard for this raise, and it felt amazing to have it finally happen. He went home feeling happy and content, knowing that his hard work had paid off.