Chapter 3

3

"What exactly is the criteria for the Top Salesperson award now?"

"According to the records, my sales this month exceeded one hundred million, bringing in at least three million in profit."

"Vera Lewis has zero orders. In fact, she offended three clients with her attitude. So why did she get my bonus?"

Gary interrupted me before I could finish.

He handed me a cup of coffee with a fake smile that didn't reach his eyes.

"Ava, this was a decision made by the entire management team."

"Your results are impressive, but we felt the newcomers needed some incentive to stay motivated."

My eyes burned with tears of frustration and anger.

He was using my hard-earned money to motivate a spoiled brat?

I was shaking, but I refused to back down.

"I have worked every single day without a break since I joined this firm. I have ruined my health for these projects."

"And you just hand my bonus to someone else as an incentive?"

"Mr. Lane, I respected you as a mentor, but I am not an idiot!"

Gary's face hardened, and he stood up from his chair.

"Ava, you need to think about the big picture. We have a massive contract coming up with the Summer Group."

"I cannot afford to offend Mr. Summer's daughter right now. Surely you understand that."

Suddenly, the door swung open and Vera walked in.

Seeing me trembling with rage, her smile widened with triumph.

"I told you, Ava. There are consequences for crossing me."

"If you keep this up, I will make sure you are blackballed from the entire business world."

The moment Vera appeared, I actually started to calm down.

I looked at her and smirked.

"If Stephen Summer is really your father, then you should handle the meeting with the Summer Group this afternoon."

My father only agreed to this partnership because I worked here.

I wondered if the deal would still go through with his so-called "daughter" in charge.

As expected, a flash of panic crossed Vera's face.

"I... I obviously cannot go," she stammered.

"People would say I only got the deal because of my father. I want to earn my place based on merit!"

Gary nodded approvingly at her words.

"That is exactly the kind of integrity I expect from Mr. Summer's daughter. We will win this deal on our own strength."

Watching them act out this little play made me lose all patience. I turned to leave.

But Gary called out to me again.

"Ava, I know the company owes you one. I will buy you a Starbucks later to help you cool off."

He sounded like he was being incredibly generous.

"As an employee, you have to put the company first. You still need to lead the negotiation this afternoon."

"I trust your ability to close this deal for us."

Hearing his shameless request, my anger turned into a cold, flat indifference.

Vera was right about one thing.

People from different worlds really shouldn't try to mix.

I nodded slowly.

"Fine. I will make sure the Summer Group gives us exactly what we deserve."