Chapter 45

"Lily disobeyed company policy and joined a competitor, betraying MN Inc. Therefore, we terminated her employment," Nathaniel said, tossing an envelope onto the table with indifference. He continued, "You've been a valuable employee for quite some time. Keep up the good work; we expect a bright future for you."

Olivia eyed the thick envelope.

"Open it," Nathaniel instructed, gesturing with his chin while smiling complacently. The flap had opened slightly when he tossed it, revealing a stack of hundred-dollar bills. Olivia knew it contained a substantial sum.

"Mr. Hall, are you attempting to bribe me?" Olivia asked, raising her eyebrows, but she didn't touch the envelope.

"What are you talking about?" Nathaniel pursed his lips, shaking his head. "This is company remuneration. Continue your good work and obedience, and you'll benefit."

"Thank you," Olivia said, pocketing the envelope. After all, everyone appreciated money. As a company reward, she saw no reason to refuse. Nathaniel subtly exhaled in relief as she accepted the money, believing her loyalty secured.

"Liv, given your familiarity with recent research and products, you'll assist Ms. Thayer."

Melanie approached Olivia, scrutinizing her intently. "You worked closely with Lily. Did you learn any trade secrets?"

Olivia shook her head. "I assisted her; Lily developed all formulas and concepts. She was the company's top perfumer."

"Shut up!" Melanie snapped. "The best perfumer? MN Inc. is your employer now! Lily betrayed us and stole our secrets. We will punish her! You'll join her in prison if you continue this nonsense!"

Olivia merely sneered, producing her employee ID and a pre-written resignation letter, which she placed on Nathaniel's desk.

Nathaniel was stunned. Didn't she take the money? That means she's on our side, right? Is this just a reaction to Mel's reprimand?

"Mr. Hall, thank you for the offer, but I'm resigning," Olivia said, smiling.

"Resigning? Who authorized that?" Nathaniel exclaimed, his voice cracking. "You accepted the money! What's going on? Are you breaking your promise?"

"Money?" Olivia patted her pocket. "This? Mr. Hall, you called it company remuneration. I've worked incredibly hard—overtime and late nights were the norm. I deserve this reward, and I'm not guilty of anything."

"How dare you?!" Nathaniel sputtered, taken aback.

"She asked you to do this, didn't she?" Melanie accused.

"Ms. Thayer, you're wrong. I stand for truth and justice. Lily taught me everything. I'm not blind to her contributions. But I can't condone your actions; it disgusts me!"

Giving Nathaniel a disdainful look, Olivia added, "Thank you for the past few years, but I hope we never meet again." She turned to leave as Nathaniel roared, "You can't leave! I won't accept your resignation! You're an MN Inc. employee until I say otherwise!"