I had previously avoided conflict with Esther, but after this life-or-death experience, I realized that no detail can be overlooked in construction.

I couldn't let her continue this recklessness. "I will inform the police of everything I know and demand accountability for those who failed in their duties."

3

"Lucia, stop messing around!"

Hector came over from not far away.

He gently patted Esther's shoulder for comfort before turning to me with a strained smile.

"We're all from the same company, and you were initially in charge of this project. If they investigate, can you stay out of it? Plus, with insurance underwriting involved, don't complicate things for Esther."

He was like this every time.

Esther always reaped the benefits while everyone else bore the consequences.

She had taken my plans, stolen my designs, and nearly caused a disaster, yet they still sided with her.

"I don't intend to avoid responsibility. But it's not my fault. Don't expect me to take the blame."

I was determined not to be a scapegoat again.

I could save everyone in the exhibition hall and protect my parents and myself.

Esther said, "How can you say that, Lucia? I know my limitations, but I have no bad intentions."

I replied coldly, "Save your tears for the courtroom to see if they might reduce your sentence. Also, you haven't been officially promoted yet. I will report your behavior to headquarters."

In my previous life, Esther's slander destroyed my career and broke my family.

This time, I was ready to strike first and reclaim what I had lost.

Esther wept dramatically, pretending to faint in Hector's arms.

"Lucia, you've gone too far."

"Esther is still young. Can't you give her some slack?"

Several colleagues gathered, blaming me.

That was ridiculous.

We had worked together for years, pulling all-nighters, inspecting sites under the sun, and sharing celebratory meals.

I also helped them a lot with many things.

Yet, all these years of friendship meant less than an intern's petty words.

I chose not to argue and turned to leave.

Suddenly, I felt a sharp pain in my back. Touching it, I realized my back was badly injured while trying to save someone.

I had been too tense to notice before, but now, the pain overwhelmed me.

I could barely stand and intended to see a doctor.

As I approached the ambulance, Hector forcefully pushed me aside while cradling Esther.