Chapter 3

The other end of the line was silent for a long time, like waiting for a storm.

Taking advantage of the time, I started checking the work group messages.

Turns out, without my help, they failed to close that deal.

The company lost a huge sum, and the big boss personally called to chew out Manager Ruth.

Moreover, since I didn't handle all that miscellaneous work, their workload increased dramatically. Unable to adapt quickly, their work efficiency plummeted.

In the end, the entire office descended into chaos.

With no other option, they started calling me.

But I'd already turned on Do Not Disturb after work hours, so I didn't receive a single call.

As for Manager Ruth, she hadn't made a move.

After a long while, she finally squeezed out through gritted teeth: "Fine, I understand, Sarah. Remember to clock in on time tomorrow."

I knew she was up to something, but I didn't care anymore.

After all, I was leaving soon. She couldn't stir up much trouble.

The next morning, I arrived at my desk exactly on time, not a minute off.

But Manager Ruth still came looking for me.

She smiled and said, "Sarah, do you really need to avoid our company like the plague?"

"Tell me the truth—do you have a problem with me? I can help resolve it."

I sneered inwardly.

As expected, she had no good intentions.

I could understand why she was acting this way.

She could have fired me directly but only docked my pay, which meant I was important.

If she threatened me with the contract, she was reluctant to let me go.

I understood this little scheme. It only failed because her memory wasn't great—she forgot the exact timing of my contract.

I stayed as calm as possible: "Manager, what are you saying? Of course I have no problem with you."

"We've worked together for so many years. How could I have a problem with you?"

Seeing my reaction, she stopped mentioning yesterday's incident and instead scribbled something and deducted another $200 from my salary.

"Sorry, Sarah. I said you needed to arrive on time today, but you were late."

I looked confused and was about to argue when she spoke again.

Feigning surprise:

"Oh, I forgot—yesterday when the company worked overtime, I announced we'd start half an hour early today. But you didn't work overtime, so you didn't hear."

"Next time, check messages carefully before leaving. Don't miss anything important."

"Understand?"

She emphasized those last words heavily—a show of dominance.

After speaking, she tossed me a file.

"I'm going on a business trip soon. Take over as quickly as possible."

"This is a new contract. The client is one of those difficult ones you've successfully negotiated with before. This time, take Ruthie with you and close the deal."

"Next week we'll be competing against SKY Corporation for a bid. I'll be there. After we win the bid, don't always try to show off in front of the boss. Give the younger generation a chance, understand?"

Without waiting for my response, she was called away for her business trip.

I had to admit, she played her hand well.

Everyone knew Ruthie was her niece. This time she just wanted me to pave the way for her niece, then kick me out.

I knew she'd always resented that I was more capable and that the boss valued me.

So she'd always tried to undermine me subtly, wanting to sideline me, but I wouldn't fall for it.

Today was Tuesday. I had three days left until my resignation.

For these three days, I wouldn't touch this project.

After all, in three days I'd be reporting to SKY Corporation.

I wouldn't do anything illegal like leaking confidential information.

But I would definitely get my revenge.

"Manager Ruth, I'll be there, but not as your employee."