Nathaniel noticed Olivia's puzzled expression and knew what she was thinking. He smiled proudly and said, "Why don't you believe me? If you don't, you can return to the lab and check, or ask the others. Don't be silly, Olivia. You can't compete with someone stronger than you.

"What does Lily offer you now that she's gone? Has she ever truly cared about you? Do you even know what she's doing? She's flying first class and being chauffeured in a Rolls-Royce. What about you? You're living in a shabby rented house with your mother, throwing a tantrum at me, and neglecting your work.

"How long will your savings last? A year? Two? Or maybe only three to five months? What then? Have you considered your future? Your contract expires in two years; I'll keep you on until then, and I won't approve your resignation.

"If you insist on leaving, you'll pay the compensation. Do you think you can afford to challenge me, Olivia?" Nathaniel leaned back, a confident smile playing on his lips, as if victory were assured.

Olivia lowered her head, silent.

Nathaniel, sensing he'd struck a nerve, smiled wider. "I'm quite tolerant, Olivia. Think about the trouble you've caused recently. Do you think any boss would tolerate your behavior? And why are you interfering? My relationship with Lily is none of your business. It's between her and me."

Nathaniel stretched and slammed an envelope on the table. "This is a reward for your recent hard work. Take it, clear your head, and get back to work. MN Inc. will continue as usual, regardless of past grievances."

"Mr. Hall," Olivia said, slowly raising her head and tapping the envelope. "I'll do the work, but I can't accept the money." She pushed the envelope back. Nathaniel's smile froze; his eyebrows furrowed. "What do you mean?"

"Since you asked, I'll be blunt. You won't let me go, and I can't afford the penalty, so I'll stay. Yes, you have a lot of money, and I can't compete with that, but I will work. However, I will sue if you don't pay my usual salary and maliciously deduct from it. Since you want to make this a game, bring it on!" Olivia stood and left. Nathaniel was stunned, then spun around. "Why are you doing this?!"

Olivia paused, silent.

"How long have you known Lily, and how well? Mel and I have known her since we were classmates. How well does she treat you that you're so loyal? What's in it for you?!" Nathaniel's eyes were contemptuous.

'Loyalty? Righteous gestures? That's foolish! Only profit endures!' Nathaniel thought.

"It doesn't matter how she treats me," Olivia said, turning to Nathaniel. "What matters is how you repaid her. Everyone else may be oblivious, but I know Lily was there for you, and what did she get for her efforts? You betrayed her and stole her achievements. Why should I work for someone like you?" Olivia looked down at him; he saw her disdain.

Her gaze angered Nathaniel. "All right! Since you're so loyal to Lily, I'll bury you with her!" He shoved Olivia away and stormed off.

Olivia staggered, catching herself on the chair. She'd agreed to return to work because Nathaniel was right about one thing: she couldn't afford to lose her job. She knew her contract with MN Inc. would end if they couldn't resolve the essential oil incident. But she understood Nathaniel's charade; he'd already resolved the issue.