***
The week leading up to the World Series had everyone buzzing.
Geoff Greenberg the GM of the Ligers had never been happier during his time as General Manager. It seemed that his decision to secure Mark Williams as the coach and draft Ken Takagi had been instrumental in their success.
Right now, he was in his office, humming a merry tune as he browsed his emails. There were many congratulations being thrown around from acquaintances and others within the organization.
"Such good timing with my contract coming to an end this season…" He mused, wearing a big smile.
"Geoff, Mr. Ilitch is here to see you." His assistant poked her head into the open door and spoke up, startling him.
Even though he had done nothing wrong, Geoff felt his heart beat wildly in his chest at the mention of the majority owner. The man didn't come to the organization often, hence why he was nervous.
"Quickly let him in." Geoff said, straightening his tie. He quickly tidied his desk, throwing a few items into his drawers before sitting straight in his chair.
He waited a few moments before the older man entered his office.
"Mr. Ilitch, what a pleasant surprise." Geoff exclaimed, standing up from his desk and extending his hand.
"Geoff," the older man acknowledged, choosing not to take the handshake.
The scene caused Geoff to shiver subconsciously.
'Did I mess up?' he thought, scrambling.
"Please, take a seat." He offered, pointing to one of the couches in the middle of the room.
Mr. Ilitch obliged, taking a seat in one of the comfy chairs.
It was a little awkward, but Geoff did his best to keep his composure, telling himself that he'd done nothing wrong.
"What can I do for you, Mr. Ilitch?" Geoff said, taking a seat across from the man.
The older man didn't answer right away. He swung his right leg over the other and adjusted in his seat, getting comfortable.
"How do you think we've performed this season?" he asked casually.
Geoff was a little taken aback. How should he respond to such a question? Wasn't it obvious that they had played brilliantly? Otherwise they wouldn't have made it to the World Series.
Geoff cleared his throat, "Well overall I think we've done great with our young lineup and new coach. Honestly, I don't think we could have done any better than we have already." He replied sincerely.
Instead of agreeing, Mr. Ilitch's gaze was locked onto him.
"The acquisition of Coach Mark Williams and the decision to draft Ken was your doing correct?" He asked solemnly.
"Yes… I was also the one who snapped up Daichi Takagi when he was posted." Geoff replied, regaining some of his backbone. He knew that these were all good decisions, but he had not expected them to bear such fruit already.
Only now did Mr. Ilitch's expression change. It was subtle, but a small smile tugged at the corner of his lips as he looked at Geoff with fondness.
"Very good. Your swift decisions have compounded and worked a treat for the organization. Not only are ticket sales incredibly high, our merchandise has increased tremendously this past season." He said, tapping his finger on the arm rest of the lounge.
"I came here today to recognize your efforts in leading the Ligers organization. While it might not be much, I figure that you deserved some praise for what you've done this past 2 years. Great work." Charlie Ilitch continued.
Geoff was silent for a few moments before his body relaxed. He had thought that the man might have given him a hard time for whatever reason, but it seemed it was the opposite.
"Thank you, Mr. Ilitch. I appreciate your recognition and will continue to do my best in the future for this organization." He said, bowing his head slightly.
"It's no matter, of course I will give credit where its due, this is what you deserve." Charlie added matter-of-factly.
"If I remember correctly, your contract expires at the conclusion of the post season, does it not?" he continued.
Hearing his contract mentioned, Geoff stiffened briefly before nodding, "That is correct."
"Mmm, I'd be happy to offer you another contract today, but…" Charlie seemed to be contemplating whether or not to say the next part.
"But?" Geoff swallowed hard, feeling his mouth begin to go dry.
"Well… I have a proposal for you." Charlie explained, "If you can win the World Series, I'll effectively double your salary…"
Geoff's features lit up at such a prospect. He was currently on a decent salary in the 7 figure range, the thought of doubling his income was mouth watering.
However, he felt that there was something more.
"And if we lose?" he asked cautiously.
Charlie laughed, seeing the seriousness on the GM's face. "Why do you look so serious? If you lose than we'll still re-sign you, the salary just won't be as lucrative."
Hearing this and the slight teasing tone of the majority owner, Geoff's body relaxed.
"Forgive me for being so suspicious sir, I'm sure you can understand my position. I will happily take up your proposal and do everything in my power to ensure that we succeed in the World Series." Geoff responded professionally.
"Good, that's all I wanted to hear." Charlie said, helping himself up from the comfortable lounge chair. He straightened up his suit and buttoned it with practiced efficiency.
"Oh, I almost forgot. I want you to start Ken in the opening game at home, the tickets are already sold out, we want a dominating victory to start off the series." He continued.
"Consider it done, sir." Geoff replied, extending his hand once more.
Thankfully this time, Charlie Ilitch grasped the outstretched hand and shook it firmly.
"Great, you should join us in the corporate suite for game 1. I'll get my assistant to send you the guest list, it might benefit you to network with some of these people for the future."
With that, Charlie left the GM's office, leaving Geoff standing there.
"No way… Double my salary?" Geoff muttered, his excitement blossoming.
A sudden urge to do a happy dance overcame him, leading to a lot of fist pumps and quiet cheers. When he opened his eyes once more, Geoff saw his assistant at the door, staring at him blankly.
"Ahem… act like you never saw that."