Chapter I

Ietta’s cold laugh echoed. "Does Mr. Hastings favor you because I resorted to tricks? If so, how did your marriage become a supervisor position? What kind of methods did you employ?!" Jolene's face flushed crimson as whispers rippled among our colleagues.

I turned and made my way to Alex's office.

"What now? You want to throw a tantrum? Take it outside. This company isn't your playground," Alex said the moment he saw my displeased expression, his brows furrowing.

Before I could speak, Jolene barged in. "Mr. Hastings, these are the new documents needing your signature."

Alex's demeanor instantly shifted, becoming more composed. He took the files from her.

Jolene brushed back her hair, feigning exhaustion. "Mr. Hastings, I stayed up late last night working on that report. Please let me know if there are any issues."

I nearly rolled my eyes. She was so shameless. That was my report, and she was blatantly claiming credit for it in front of me.

I glanced at Alex, eager to see his reaction.

He nodded. "Not bad. I've always recognized your strong work ethic."

I silently cursed and glared at him, but Alex deliberately avoided my gaze.

"Thank you, Mr. Hastings. I'm just doing my job," Jolene replied, a faint blush coloring her cheeks as she feigned humility.

"Good," Alex said, gesturing toward a massive stack of documents. "These are last year's financial reports from our subsidiaries. I need them sorted by next Monday."

I stifled a laugh at the mountain of files. He was indeed experienced in the corporate world.

Jolene's triumphant expression faltered. She had clearly expected Alex's praise to come with special treatment, not an impossible workload.

"I—This is too much," Jolene stammered, her face pale. "Mr. Hastings, there are so many files here…"

Alex's brows furrowed. "Your work on the last report was excellent. Considering your performance, handling this should be no issue." A sharp glint appeared in his eyes as he added, "Or was that report not your work?"

"N–No, no, it was me! O–Of course, it was me!" Jolene stuttered, waving her hands.

Under Alex's penetrating gaze, she gritted her teeth. "Since you trust me, Mr. Hastings, I'll do my best to complete it."

"Not only your best—you must complete it!" Alex corrected firmly.

Jolene looked at me. "Mr. Hastings, this is an important task. Can Serena assist me?"

I was taken aback by her audacity. She claimed credit for the report I toiled over last night, and now she wanted to use me as free labor.

I shot Alex a pleading look; he met my gaze with an unreadable expression. Then, he nodded. "No. Serena will be accompanying me to Jershor for a business gala."