I knew she was deliberately mocking me.

So I didn't reply, just smiled and prepared to leave the conference room.

Kate didn't appreciate my attitude.

"Are you deaf or mute? Didn't you hear me talking?"

"Or do you think another company will actually want you after you leave?"

I moved her arm aside and left without looking back.

Two days later, Corporate Headquarters parachuted in a new president.

On his first day, he emphasized that the new project had to be secured and asked about progress. Headquarters was taking this seriously—no mistakes would be tolerated.

After that, he signaled for Kate to call in the person in charge.

When Nolan appeared, the boss hesitated.

"I remember the project lead was a deputy supervisor with the last name Fox? Where is he? Have him come see me now."

Kate introduced Nolan to the new president, explaining that he was now handling the project. In front of the boss, she praised him to the skies.

Nolan was the director's son, yet he'd become a snake eating from the inside. Helping his father's mistress while secretly going after his own mother.

But the real reason—only I knew it best.

He started getting carried away, actually believing his own hype. He guaranteed the boss he'd secure the new project within three days.

"Three days? How about this—I'll give you five." That was Kate. "If you land this project, I'll personally promote you to assistant manager."

She'd meant to do that for a while. The new project was practically a sure thing—perfect leverage for Nolan's promotion.

"Really? Thank you, Ms. Matthews!"

The new boss had just taken office, so he couldn't say much outright. He sized up Nolan and reminded him that this project was critical to the company. Whatever method he used, he had to secure it.

Five days passed quickly. Then I got a call from Kate.

"Something at the company needs handling. Come in if you have time."

I didn't understand how she still had the nerve to order me around.

"Ms. Matthews, I already resigned, didn't I?"

"Correct. And?"

Her voice turned cold. "2:30 p.m. My office."

She hung up without waiting for a response.

At 3:00 p.m., my phone rang again. Still Kate.

"Where are you? It's already three—why aren't you here?!"

"Since you can't understand, I'll spell it out. I resigned five days ago. I'm no longer a subordinate you can summon whenever you want."

Silence. Then her voice came through.