The Divorce That Brought Us Back novel Chapter 219

Her tone was terrifyingly detached. "My capital, my accolades, the millions of dollars I poured into research and development, my contributions to the industry—none of it matters."

"I employ three Vice Presidents. Two women, one man. He isn't even my most crucial asset, but he happens to be the only male."

"Therefore, in the eyes of the public, he must be the mastermind secretly running my empire during the day and servicing me in bed at night."

"It is brutal being a female executive. You're a capable girl, Seraphina. But the moves you make now dictate your future. If you play the seductress to get ahead today, that reputation will become the very blade your enemies use to gut you when you finally reach the top."

Whether it was the raw truth of her words or the sheer shock of receiving a backhanded compliment from her bitter rival, Seraphina turned to look at Diana.

It was the first time she had ever truly looked at the older woman.

When she had stormed Diana's office, she had been too arrogant to look at her. When she was dragged out of the hotel, she had been too humiliated to make eye contact.

Diana's profile was stark, her jawline sharp enough to cut glass, emphasizing a quiet, relentless exhaustion.

Seraphina stared, momentarily mesmerized.

Diana didn't meet her gaze. Staring out at the night, she flicked the dead cigarette butt away. "The corporate world is toxic enough for women. Stop muddying the waters with cheap tricks."

It was still a lecture at its core.

Seraphina looked away. She didn't agree or disagree, merely offering a soft scoff.

"I'm done talking," Diana said, pushing her door open. "You can walk away right now, or you can stay here and rest. My driver will be here shortly to take the car. You can have her drop you off."

"Why did you help me?" Seraphina blurted out.

She added, "I literally showed up at your office to harass you."

Diana laughed dryly. "You call your pathetic little tantrum harassment?"

Seraphina's face flushed hotly.

She was instantly infuriated, glaring wide-eyed at Diana's retreating back, completely unable to form a comeback.

Diana stepped out into the freezing air, looking down at Seraphina from the open door.

"Word is you just moved back. You might have the fancy title of Vice President, but you clearly don't understand the internal rot at Sinclair Group."

"It's a family business. Every vital position is occupied by someone sharing your blood."

"Your grandfather kept them in line while he was alive. But since he passed, your father has proven useless, and your brother is weak. You are not the one actually holding the reins."

"Watch your back."

Seraphina raised an arrogant eyebrow. "Why? Is the money not good enough?"

"No, it's not about the money."

"Then what is it?"

"Ms. Dodge gave me my first real chance."

"And gratitude pays your rent?"

"Absolutely." Sensing Seraphina was about to throw more cash at her, the driver's voice hardened. "Ms. Dodge is a brilliant executive. I respect her immensely. I intend to stay fiercely loyal to her."

Seraphina went silent. "Oh."

So, she simply wasn't brilliant enough. She hadn't earned respect, and that was why her own staff sold her out.

Seraphina waved a hand dismissively. "Take me to the office."

"Sinclair Group headquarters?" the driver asked.

"Yes." Seraphina's gaze sharpened into daggers. "Take me to my company."