Chapter 45

Dominic Reeves tossed a thick envelope onto the polished mahogany desk with deliberate indifference. "Evelyn Carter violated company policy by joining a competitor, betraying DR Holdings in the process. That's why we terminated her employment." His lips curled into a calculated smile as he leaned back in his chair. "You've been with us for years, Sophia. We recognize your talent. Keep performing well, and the rewards will follow."

Sophia Grant's gaze lingered on the envelope. The flap had slipped open slightly, revealing crisp hundred-dollar bills stacked inside.

"Go ahead. Open it," Dominic urged, tilting his chin toward the envelope with a smug expression.

Sophia didn’t move. "Mr. Reeves, is this a bribe?" Her eyebrow arched, but her hands remained at her sides.

Dominic scoffed. "Don’t be absurd. This is the company’s way of showing appreciation. Stay loyal, follow orders, and you’ll be compensated accordingly."

A slow smile curved Sophia’s lips as she finally picked up the envelope and tucked it into her blazer pocket. "Then I’ll thank DR Holdings in advance."

Dominic exhaled subtly, satisfaction flickering in his eyes. If she took the money, she was theirs.

"Sophia," he continued smoothly, "since you’re the most familiar with our recent projects, you’ll be assisting Vanessa Blake from now on."

Vanessa rose from her seat, her sharp heels clicking against the floor as she approached. Her scrutinizing gaze raked over Sophia. "You worked closely with Evelyn. Did she teach you any of her little secrets?"

Sophia shook her head. "I wasn’t skilled enough to contribute creatively. Evelyn handled all the formulas—she was the best perfumer in the company."

Vanessa’s face twisted in irritation. "Enough! That traitor stole proprietary information, and she will pay for it. If you still admire her so much, you can join her in prison."

Sophia’s smile didn’t waver. Instead, she reached into her bag and placed her employee badge and a pre-written resignation letter on Dominic’s desk.

His composure shattered. "What the hell are you doing?" His voice cracked with disbelief. "You took the money! That means you agreed!"

Sophia patted her pocket. "This? You called it compensation for my years of service. Late nights, overtime, sacrifices—I earned this." Her tone turned icy. "But loyalty can’t be bought."

Dominic’s face darkened. "You’re not leaving. I refuse your resignation!"

Vanessa sneered. "Evelyn put you up to this, didn’t she?"

Sophia met her glare without flinching. "I stand with integrity, Ms. Blake. Evelyn dedicated everything to this company. Unlike you, I don’t betray the people who lift me up."

She turned on her heel, but Dominic’s roar followed her. "You walk out that door, and I’ll make sure you never work in this industry again!"

Sophia didn’t look back. "Then it’s a good thing I don’t plan to."

The door slammed behind her, leaving stunned silence in its wake.