The Ballad of Bad Decisions

Workplace drama doesn’t always come from big blowups or power struggles. Sometimes it’s the quiet moments — a closed door, a guitar, and a very bad idea — that cause the most lasting cringe. This is one of those times.

The Ballad of Bad Decisions

Years ago, I (38F) worked in a government facility with extra security, and it required people to undergo a thorough background check to even work there. Security guards inspect almost anything that comes in that’s out of the ordinary. If it appears not to be part of everyday work (such as a small lunchbox), it will be inspected.

A female employee (Anna) worked there for several years and had a decent social connection with many in the company. They became a sort of social nexus and helped plan events, gatherings, parties, etc. The workplace had many married employees, but fewer single employees. Anna was generally friendly with everyone and was well-liked and respected. She ended up befriending another employee (Zachary) who was married, but this was no cause for concern, since many of her male work friends were married and she got along well with their wives. She ended up getting to know Zachary’s wife and had a good relationship with them.

This all came apart when one day, Zachary (who had a higher position than Anna) asked her to come to his office. She was not part of his group or team, so she was a bit confused as to why he needed to talk to her. He asked her to close the door and sit. Right after she sat, he leaned down under his desk and pulled out a guitar. He then proceeds to play and sing a song he specifically wrote for her, revealing his strong feelings for her. Anana was mortified and shocked!

She was completely caught off guard. She did NOT share any of those feelings and immediately left the office when he was done. She confronted him days later and told him he had to tell his wife about what happened, or she would. Their friendship obviously ended, and his wife actually blamed Anna, saying it was a betrayal.

The craziest thing is, Zachary brought in the guitar knowing full well it was likely going to be searched at the security desk. I have no idea what sort of explanation Zachary might have provided, but when it came to making it weird, he was definitely committed.