2

When Fiona stepped out, Gideon personally opened the door for her, practically rolling out the red carpet.

She was on top of the world, and Gideon was right behind her, showering her with compliments.

"Fiona has really shown her dedication.

"Let's give her the Best Employee title this month. Any objections?"

Amidst the chorus of agreement, I couldn't keep quiet.

"Wait a second. Isn't the Best Employee nomination based on everyone's monthly performance?

"I had the best performance this month. Why does she get the award?"

Frustration bubbled inside me. I had joined this company hoping to impress my dad and show him I could make it on my own.

I worked my tail off, staying late and getting up early, losing hair over the stress.

Everyone stared at me as if I was being absurd.

Kelly piped up, her tone dripping with condescension. "Elena, don't be such a jealous brat.

"Mr. Black has made his choice. Who do you think you are to question him?"

I couldn't help myself. "Fiona was late three times this month and left early five times.

"She didn't even work full hours. She's not even qualified for the nomination!"

My anger was palpable, making my hands tremble.

Fiona stayed quiet, all she did was casting a glance at Gideon.

He quickly caught on, waving me off.

"Since Elena doesn't agree, I have an idea. Why don't we just give all her performance points for the month to Fiona?"

He smirked as if he'd just solved the world's problems. "Well, problem solved."

I felt my jaw drop. "This is f*cking ridiculous!"

The moment the words left my lips, Gideon's face hardened.

He pointed into the office. "Elena, do you even know your place?

"I'm the team leader here, and I call the shots.

"Who the hell do you think you are?"

I couldn't believe my ears. Workplace bullying was still a thing in this day and age.

Serena was clapping her hands in delight. "Mr. Black, you have no idea. Elena is really low-class.

"She's out here trying to steal Mr. Harper right under Fiona's nose!"

She laughed as if it were the funniest thing ever. "What a joke. She doesn't even know what she's worth."

Gideon's eyes lit up at her comment as he gave me a leering look.

"You know, on second thought, she looks like a good mistress for me."

"Seriously? I'm afraid you're not good enough for her, Mr. Black. Just take a look at what bag she's carrying.

"Unless you're in your 60s, you can't make enough to fund her lifestyle."

Fiona crossed her arms, looking smug. "I was going to let it slide, Elena.

"But clearly, everyone here hates mistresses."

I gritted my teeth. "I'm not a mistress! Just stop spreading lies."

But to them, it was just another joke.

Fiona shrugged it off. "Say what you want. Ryan and I are getting married soon.

.

"Consider this a warning to you.

"If I catch you mess around with Ryan again, I'll make sure you regret it every single second of your life."

Her fierce glare sent chills down my spine.

A few colleagues chimed in, agreeing with Fiona. "You're too nice, Fiona. If she tried to take my man, I'd kill her. "

I fell silent, slumping into my chair.

With just a few days until the wedding, I was more excited for the big day than Fiona ever could be.