Chapter 22

Mia loathed Maria intensely. A contact in the personnel department had secretly informed her that the situation involved a misuse of power by someone at the Sanitation Service Center. Mia's only recourse seemed to be asking Grace to send the document. However, Maria was the true mastermind.

"I didn't force you," Maria said coldly. "You wanted Grace humiliated; you agreed willingly. At most, I gave you the idea. It's your own doing."

The two women launched into a bitter argument.

After Mia's falling out with her best friend, her family scolded her severely. Nevertheless, they used their influence and money to try to intercede on her behalf. Their attempts, however, were unsuccessful; all gifts and attempts at influence were rejected within two days.

Finally, an old family friend confided, "Who did your daughter offend? This person's connections seem incredibly strong. The director of the Urban Management Bureau said she'll struggle to find any job, let alone a secure one."

Mia's parents were stunned. Returning home, they demanded to know which powerful person their daughter had angered.

Mia was baffled. She couldn't think of anyone. Then, the reunion came to mind—Greg, and Jason Reed's furious reaction to the commotion.

Wait. Could Jason Reed be behind Grace's power?

This thought was quickly dismissed. Grace had been involved in a drunk driving accident that severely injured Jason's fiancée, Jennifer. The Stevens and Reed families, among others, were eager for revenge.

So who was supporting Grace, a sanitation worker and convict? Had her parents received misinformation?

After further reflection, Mia concluded that the only person she had offended was Grace.

The next day, Mia sought out Grace. Tears streamed down her face as she said, "I'm so sorry. Maria suggested asking you to the reunion and to send the documents. I've regretted it ever since. I'm responsible for your humiliation. I'm sorry."

Grace regarded her coldly, unconvinced.

"Grace, please forgive me," Mia pleaded.

Grace responded calmly, "Why should I?"

"I've admitted my mistake! Won't you forgive me?"

Grace found this absurd. "Asking you to send documents was normal. There's nothing to forgive."

Mia was speechless. Could she confess that she’d wanted to humiliate Grace?