Known for his cunning nature, Dylan often took low-performing employees on business trips. After all, sales were a winner-takes-all game; top performers were rewarded, while underperformers faced penalties or dismissal.

When Dylan traveled, it was as if he controlled the sales, and those accompanying him shared in the spoils. He used this tactic to lure inexperienced salespeople, unaware of his methods, to travel with him.

At the office, he maintained a façade of decency. However, alone with a few subordinates, his true nature emerged; he would sexually harass them, expertly covering his tracks. Many women resigned in despair or endured the abuse in silence. Isabel, however, had succumbed to his advances.

Valerie knew Dylan would seek revenge during the upcoming trip, perhaps with harassment or worse. Even with precautions, the power imbalance worried her. She wouldn't wait for something to happen; besides, she didn't need his sales opportunities.

With a forced smile, she announced, "I'm off tomorrow and the day after, Mr. Hart. You'll need to find someone else."

Rejected, Dylan's face darkened. "From what I know, you're from the countryside, unmarried, and the most laid-back in our department. Valerie, I never thought you'd slack off!"

"Oh, what a shame, Mr. Hart…" Normally, Valerie would have argued, but not today. She smiled slightly, revealing a diamond ring on her ring finger.

"You're married?" Dylan frowned.

"Yes, just a few days ago. That's why I've been so busy," Valerie replied calmly, subtly signaling that she was off-limits.

Dylan was clearly surprised. His anger at her rejection intensified, fueled by shame.

Previously, Valerie's complaint letter had caught Mr. Grant's attention. Dylan assumed she had personal connections or influence, explaining Mr. Grant's politeness. However, with no follow-up from headquarters, he concluded he'd overestimated her and the letter was coincidental.

Now convinced Valerie lacked influence, Dylan felt fearless. His resentment mounted: "So what if she's getting married? She got Isabel fired, so she'll offer herself as compensation. If she refuses, she can get lost!"

With this thought, Dylan slammed the table, accusing Valerie directly. "Valerie, this deal is crucial. Only you and I can handle it. Besides, I'm your superior; this is an order. Disobedience means you're unsuitable for Arcton Cars!"

The office fell silent.

To force compliance, Dylan leveraged his authority and threatened Valerie's job.

Valerie's expression turned cold. Katherine, furious, was about to intervene, but Valerie stopped her. She wouldn't let Katherine take the blame and decided to fight back. Standing, she maintained a poised, yet frigid smile. "I've worked at Arcton Cars for three years. It's a great company. Unfortunately, some staff aren'tsuitable. Therefore, I'm leaving."

"Valerie!" Katherine gasped.

Colleagues were shocked; they knew Valerie's value and feared for their own futures. They urged her to reconsider.

Dylan smirked. "Let her go. Anyone who stops her is against me!"

He preferred her departure, but secretly hoped she would stay, on his terms.

"However, Valerie, let me offer advice. Jobs are scarce. If you change your mind, it's not impossible. Apologize and comply, and I can forgive you…" His narrowed eyes hinted at his continued malice.

Although Valerie annoyed him, he found her far more attractive than Isabel. Her seemingly humble background couldn't mask a certain nobility that fueled his desire to conquer her.

He already plotted her downfall, imagining taking her to a secluded location to force his will upon her. His fantasies were interrupted by the receptionist's hurried entrance. "Mr. Hart, someone from Noria Group headquarters is here!" she stammered.

(The final line with the color character was removed as it's nonsensical in this context.)