Chapter 135:

Kellan, naturally, paid no attention to the swirling rumors. Sensing Allison's cool demeanor, he didn't press the issue, simply remarking, "I'll head to the office first."

Allison nodded slightly. "Alright, see you later."

After Kellan left, she checked her watch and waited, making her move exactly twenty minutes after his arrival at the company. She headed toward the lab.

The team, having pulled an all-nighter, shuffled in, looking exhausted. One young woman pulled out a mirror, examining her tired eyes before glancing at Allison's radiant complexion. Frustration welled up. "Ms. Clarke must have worked harder than the rest of us, but how on earth does she still look so fresh?"

"Not fair at all! She's stunning and blessed with good genes. What chance do we have?" another chimed in.

Completely oblivious to their grumbling, Allison checked her watch again. Once everyone had gathered, she announced, "Yesterday, I mentioned bonuses, and I wasn't just talking. Because we finished our task on time, the client sent us another big order today. So, each of you will be getting a 20% bonus this month!"

Cheers erupted, excitement filling the lab.

"Wow, a few thousand dollars! That'll cover a couple of months' rent! All thanks to Ms. Clarke!" someone exclaimed.

"Exactly! Had it been other leaders, they would have pocketed that for themselves!" another added.

While the team celebrated, Marc sat quietly in the corner. He knew he wouldn't receive a bonus, and the sting of their cheerful chatter was palpable. However, he plastered on a smile and approached Allison.

"Ms. Clarke, we really owe you for steering the ship on this one. I was wondering if there might be a small bonus for me as well? I know I didn't contribute as much, but I did put in the effort…"

Allison's smile was sharp, though her tone remained light. "You're aware, Marc, that your negligence yesterday nearly cost the company a serious loss, right? As per policy, your annual bonus, including the year-end bonus, has been docked, and a large portion of your performance bonus has also been slashed. HR has already documented the incident."

Several coworkers quickly added, "Exactly, Marc. Another mistake like that, and you'll be out the door—Mr. Lloyd made that crystal clear."

"Yeah, Marc, don't make things harder than they need to be. Just focus on doing your job."

"Thick skin won't fill your belly, my friend," another quipped.

Marc's face tightened as he surveyed the jubilant group, fury simmering beneath the surface. What were they so gleeful about? Hypocrites, the lot of them!

Just then, Aimee approached Allison with a sincere smile, handing her a glass of water. "Thank you, Ms. Clarke. Really." Aimee's family was struggling financially, and this extra money would ease their burden. Her gratitude was genuine.

Marc's gaze darkened as he looked at Aimee. The change in the lab's atmosphere hit him like a punch to the gut. Just a few days ago, these same people had been easily swayed.

Marc's blood boiled. He had been working toward something bigger—Melany's task wasn't complete yet—and now he was taking the fall while those he had quietly influenced were turning their backs for a small bonus. Spineless cowards! But this wasn't over. Not by a long shot!

If he couldn't strike at Allison directly, he'd find a way to make her underlings suffer. Allison thought she could breeze through with a minor victory—she had no idea what storm was brewing!