“Louie has done great work,” Tracy said at last, finally looking my way, but her gaze felt cold and distant, like I was just another name on a spreadsheet. “But the company needs fresh blood to keep growing. Besides,” she paused, “Mr. Clark’s recent performance hasn’t been up to standard. I doubt he can keep up with the pressure of the role.”
Only then did I stand up slowly. “You’re right, Ms. Kain. I haven’t been at my best lately. I agree. I’m no longer fit to serve as Director.”
Dominic was already breaking into a nervous sweat.
“But Mr. Clark, the South American clients only trust you. And you’re the one who understands the entire new product rollout!”
At that, a wave of agreement rippled through the room.
Facing a lot of disagreement, Tracy’s face shifted slightly. She hadn’t expected this many people to side with me.
“Quiet!” she snapped, slamming her palm against the table. “This company doesn’t belong to one person alone! Louie’s contributions are undeniable, but the board’s decision stands. Harry will take over as Director. End of discussion!”
"Ms. Kain," I called, then stepped forward and placed an envelope on the table. “My resignation.”
Upon hearing that, the room fell into dead silence.
Tracy stared at the paper, her face turning pale.
She hadn’t expected me to do this in front of everyone.
“Louie, you—”
“One more thing,” I interrupted.
Louie's POV
Cutting her off, I pulled out a thick folder from my briefcase.
“These are all my client contacts,” I said, placing the documents in front of Harry, “along with everything related to the new product launch. With Mr. Williamson’s experience, I’m sure he’ll handle it just fine.”
The smile on Harry’s face instantly froze.
He clearly hadn’t expected me to hand over years of hard work so cleanly.
“Mr. Clark!” A few veteran employees stood up, visibly upset.
“You can’t just leave like this!”
“The company needs you!”
I faced them and gave a deep bow. “Thank you, all of you, for your support over the years. Goodbye.”
As I turned to leave, I saw Tracy open her mouth, like she wanted to say something.
But when Harry gently reached for her hand, she stopped.
Afterward, I didn’t look back as I walked out.
Back in my office, I started packing my things when Harry showed up.
He leaned against the doorframe, twirling a metal lighter between his fingers, which Tracy gave me for my birthday last year.