"... after an explanation and an apology ..." That's part of the problem- an apology not acompanied by a change in behavior is worthless. To just say "oops sorry" then not change anything is worthless. It's like me bumping you into a wall 9 times a day- saying oops sorry every time. Does that make it better? no- would saying oops sorry , then taking care to not bump into you again make it better? yes. "There's nothing worse than working your butt off for little or no pay." If one is getting no pay then it's a hobby. If one is getting little pay, then either one is ok with the wages they are receiving or it is time to move on. That was the choice that was made.