Chapter 4

Quinn froze, then slammed the box down on the entryway table.

He scoffed:

"Really, Harper? The breakup threat again? You can do better than that."

"You think because you designed one popular collection, you’re untouchable?"

"I don’t have time for your games."

I kept my voice steady:

"This isn’t a game. I’m letting you go. Now you can make Jenna your official girlfriend."

Quinn’s scowl deepened. He jabbed a finger at me:

"Still in denial about being jealous? Cut the breakup threats, Harper. They’re getting old."

"Jenna just… reminds me of simpler times. I value her work ethic. It’s not what you think."

"I was gonna propose. But you’re making this impossible."

He didn’t wait for a response—just stomped out, slamming the door behind him.

Predictable. I pulled up my email and hit send on the resignation letter I’d drafted.

HR called an hour later, asking me to come in and finalize paperwork.

The second I walked in, I heard the office chatter:

"Jenna! Is that the new Cartier necklace? Quinn really splurged on you!"

"You two are goals! With you heading design, we’re gonna kill it this season!"

Jenna flipped her hair back, practically preening with the diamond pendant on display.

She spotted me and rushed over, grabbing my hand like we were besties:

"Harper! Perfect timing! Quinn’s treating everyone to coffee to celebrate me taking over design. What’ll you have?"

I pulled my hand away.

Before I could speak, Quinn stepped in front of her, arms crossed like a bodyguard.

"Nice of you to finally show up. Think you deserve a coffee after this stunt?"

"HR’s already reviewing your attendance. And honestly? A Chief Designer who can’t even be on time? You’re off the upcoming collections."

"Start with intern-level work. Maybe learn some professionalism."

Jenna gasped, clutching his arm:

"Quinn, don’t be too hard on her! She did work on the collection… a little. Maybe she just needs more guidance?"

Quinn sneered, looking me up and down like I was dirt on his shoe:

"Please. You’re ten times more talented. She’s just bitter she can’t keep up."

"Jenna, you’re officially Chief Designer. The collections are yours now."

Jenna’s eyes lit up, but she put on a shy act:

"Quinn, are you sure? I’m still learning… maybe I’m not ready?"

The office rats jumped on the bandwagon:

"Totally! Harper’s been slacking—left on time yesterday and showed up late today. She needs a reality check!"

"Jenna’s got real talent. Seniority doesn’t mean squat if you can’t deliver."

Quinn smirked, playing along:

"Prove yourself, and maybe I’ll let you keep your job..."

I tuned out their little performance.

I cut him off, tone flat:

"I’m here to process my resignation, actually."

Quinn went rigid. "What?"

HR scurried over and whispered in his ear.

Quinn’s face turned crimson. "Harper, are you serious right now?"

"First the breakup, now this? Do you realize we’re about to hit the luxury market? This company’s going places!"

"Everyone here’s getting a bonus when we launch. People would kill for this job!"

I met his gaze evenly:

"Approve the resignation, Quinn. Or I’ll have my lawyer handle it."

The room went silent.

Quinn’s hands balled into fists, knuckles white. "You’ll regret this."

"Fine! Go! I’ll sign it myself! Jenna’s your replacement—effective immediately!"

He snatched the papers from HR, pen hovering—eyes glued to my face, waiting for me to beg.

When I didn’t flinch, he doubled down:

"Jenna’s getting a promotion, a raise, and a company car! That’s what top talent deserves!"

I laughed out loud.

Cute. He thought flaunting Jenna would make me jealous.

What he didn’t know? The investors were already downstairs—here to discuss breach of contract.

Quinn’s jaw tightened. "What’s so funny?"

I shrugged.

"Ask them."

I stepped aside with a smirk.

The investors’ lawyer strode in.

He didn’t waste time:

"Mr. Archer, replacing the lead designer violates our contract. We’re pulling all orders and terminating the partnership."