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"Me and the team just want to share your luck, not rob you blind!"
"It's just a simple, cheap meal to show goodwill. You think we're greedy for gourmet?"
"Honestly, treating us is your privilege!"
Her words were as honeyed as last year's, but I remembered well. That "simple meal" had cost me $57,000.
Minus the $6,000 bonus, I paid $51,000 and lost my life.
With that bitter lesson, I wasn't falling for Lauren's lies again.
I wanted to rip off her fake mask.
I stared coldly." This privilege I can't afford. I don't want the bonus—take it, Lauren. You host tonight, okay?"
Her face shifted, waving off the offer.
"Two draws, both you—that's fate."
"If I took your bonus, I'd be cursed. You're setting me up!"
The boss chimed in, whispering," Emma, it's the gala. First team dinner of the year. This kills the vibe."
"If you're unwilling, I won't force you, but it's bad for team unity.I'll have to rethink your promotion rating."
Last life, his threat forced me to pay.
Job or life? I knew my choice.
I looked at his smug face and nearly quit on the spot, but held my tongue.
I smiled faintly." Boss, I get it.I'll cover tonight!"
He grinned, satisfied." That's my star employee—high principles. Come mid-year, the sales manager spot's yours…"
He dangled promises, and Lauren rushed up, hugging me.
"Emma, I knew you were the kindest, most generous!"
"We'll share your luck and drive bigger profits this year!"
"Right, boss?"
Their eyes locked, flirting. The boss publicly groped Lauren in front of the company.
I stayed silent, watching.
I had a perfect revenge plan forming.
"Boss, can I invite a friend to our dinner?"
He was in high spirits." It's your treat—invite whoever, one or ten, no issue."
Lauren cut in." What friend? Do we know them?"
I smiled."You'll see when they arrive."
I texted the friend I wanted to invite.
Not only did Lauren know her—everyone in the company did.
I checked the time." It's getting late. Shall we go?"
The boss feigned thoughtfulness."I've booked a place—guaranteed cheap and cheerful!"
I didn't hesitate."Thanks for the effort, boss."
