Chapter 2The Golden Exit

It was Sarah.

Usually, she pretended we were strangers in the office to "maintain professionalism." This was the first time she had called out to me publicly.

She walked over, her face cold, looking down at me.

"I told you to come to my office. Why didn't you?"

"I was busy working," I said flatly. "Didn't see it."

It was the excuse she always used on me. Hearing it come from my mouth made her choke on her words.

"It’s just a small prank," she sighed, lowering her voice so others wouldn't hear. "Do you have to throw a tantrum?"

"I know you're unhappy about Gavin's little joke, and I know I didn't step in. But he's the new Director. He's boosted morale. If I sided with you in front of everyone, it would undermine his authority. You need to be more understanding of my position."

"You know damn well that wasn't a reward," I cut her off. "That was bullying. Pure and simple."

She frowned. "Liam, don't start."

"And what morale did he boost?" I continued. "Do you think our numbers are up because Gavin sits in his office drinking lattes? If I wasn't out there in the rain and snow, skipping meals to meet clients, do you think we would have closed a single deal this winter?"

Sarah’s face darkened.

"Liam, don't be so arrogant. You act like you hold up Sterling Estates all by yourself."

"If it wasn't for Gavin's 'Warm Winter' marketing campaign, would we have that much foot traffic? You’re benefiting from his strategy. Don't act like a martyr."

I couldn't believe what I was hearing.

Gavin's "Warm Winter" campaign consisted of setting up a folding table outside the office, serving cheap instant coffee, and giving away dollar-store gloves that fell apart in a day. The coffee went cold, and the gloves ended up in the trash down the block.

In Sarah’s eyes, that gimmick was genius. And my twelve years of blood and sweat were just me "riding his coattails."

The last thread of affection I held for her snapped.

I threw the mop into the bucket. It landed with a loud splash.

"Fine," I said cold. "Since you think Gavin is the savior of this company, I quit. And we’re done. I’m breaking up with you."