After the divorce, he begged

“I’ll be waiting for that paycheck dinner,” lan said with a grin, not pressuring her. He was just offering another option. “Work won’t be as easy as it is now. If you’re ever stuck late, just message me. I’ll pick up Samuel.”

“Sure thing.” Rebecca didn’t even hesitate. Ever since they were kids, they’d always had each other’s backs. Saying no would only make things awkward between them.

After chatting for a while, Rebecca texted Elmer to let him know she’d be joining. Elmer replied fast, shooting her over a list. of things she’d need for her first day at work.

Rebecca sent him a quick “Sure,” and having a real job sorted out finally helped her relax a little inside.

But since her mom still needed a bunch of cash these days, Rebecca hopped onto her side art account after getting home. She posted a batch of her latest drawings, just to give potential clients something to check out for commissions.

Her main account featured top–tier, award–winning work that could earn tens of thousands per job, but those big gigs were rare. Her side account handled smaller commissions from many clients, bringing in extra income regularly.

On Thursday, after dropping Samuel off at school, Rebecca made her way to the office. She arrived before nine, and Elmer was there waiting to greet her himself. He helped her get the contract signed and gave her the rundown on the new project.

Isn’t this all supposed to be HR’s job?‘ Rebecca thought, a bit puzzled. If she were some big shot, maybe the HR director would step in, but it was pretty rare for Elmer himself to handle every single part.

Elmer flashed a big smile as soon as Rebecca finished signing. “Welcome to PrimePlay Technologies! With you on the team, I’m confident our new project will be a success.”

“I’ll do my best,” Rebecca said with a small smile.

Then Elmer led her to the floor where the new project was located. PrimePlay Technologies was a public company, and they occupied the entire building. The new project team was set up on the eighth floor.

As Rebecca stepped into her new workspace and received her employee badge, a tide of complicated emotions washed over her. The words Marcus and Candice had once said about her not having a job echoed in her mind.

“Rebecca,” Elmer called, bringing her out of her thoughts.

“Hmm?” Rebecca replied, coming back to herself.

“The rest of the team for the new project hasn’t arrived yet. Once they’re here, I’ll introduce you,” Elmer said, pulling out a folder and passing it to her. “This is the project brief. Take a look when you get the chance.”

Rebecca took the documents, one by one.

Elmer kept her for over twenty minutes, talking nonstop, covering the company’s growth, project details, and an overview

of the new team,

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polite

“Sure,” Elmer said readily.

started going through the project files, immersing herself in the details all morning. She also made sure to

was about to finish up the last of the files, the eighth floor suddenly buzzed

excitement.

way more serious than he’d been earlier. “Alright, everyone, pause whatever you’re doing. The new boss is here and wants to chat about the

stopped what they

over her. It hit

sinking feeling was confirmed as soon as she stepped into the CEO’s office. Jeffrey was there, rocking a sharp suit and sitting cool as ever in his chair. When

for just

never expected that all her searching would lead to something like

For the next two months, he’ll be stepping in as CEO of PrimePlay Technologies,” Elmer

“Understood,” the team echoed.

room, introducing everyone

had been glued to Jeffrey since the moment she stepped in; quitting ran through her mind on a

empire. There was no

our brand–new concept art and marketing artist,” Elmer continued. “She’s got loads

Rebecca a quick look before

to make sure everything was perfect for Jeffrey. “Is there anything else you’d

answered, cool as ice. “Just here to check up on the project’s progress,”

anything more and gestured for everyone to

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corner Jeffrey and demand some answers, but with so many eyes

their desks, the office instantly filled with

did you check out the new CEO? He’s stupid hot!