I will be late

It is 10.15 a.m. I will be late. I did not hear the alarm. It was set for seven a.m. That happens when you go to sleep at 2 a.m. The project submission date is fast approaching. Late hours are the new normal.

“I want everyone in the office by 10 a.m. sharp.”

It was easy for my project manager. He lived right next to the office. The rent in that area was more than my monthly salary. He can afford it; I cannot. 

I live on the outskirts of Mumbai. The local trains are always jam-packed with passengers. I usually manage to squeeze in. At my age, it is better to be sandwiched inside than hanging out of the open door. I have seen too many people spread out on the tracks to take that kind of risk.

The platform is packed with commuters. The peak hours are from 8 to around 11 a.m. The train, as usual, was on time. By the time I reached my desk, it was 10.45 a.m. I can see the PM frowning from the other side of the room. 

I’m not concerned. In my last appraisal, he gave me a 3. That is better than 2. That puts the Human Resources department after your blood. They put you on a performance-improvement plan. One month of silly tasks, which then go to your manager. At the end of one month, you will know if you will stay with the company. Honestly, I do not care. 

I log in on my desktop. Another boring day starts.