Chapter 330
Gemma’s POV
If not for Mikhail’s specific directive to wait, I would have been out of this corporate cage an hour ago, and wouldn’t have to deal with this mess at all.
The stale air and the fluorescent lights are starting to feel oppressive, but Vicky is a fire that refuses to go out. My calm rebuttal seems to have only poured gasoline on her fury.
Her argument deterred, she stands there, her entire body trembling.
Is it because Mikhail favors you that you dare to act with such impunity in the company?
She hisses, the words meant to be a sharp, exposing blade. To label my actions: sitting at a desk, playing a game while waiting for my actual assignment as “malevolent impunity” is such a spectacular stretch it’s almost impressive.
Gemma, don’t delude yourself, she continues, her voice rising, seeking an audience. “You’re merely angling for a higher rung on the social ladder. Dream on!”
I clasp my hands on the desk, my interest genuinely piqued as I observe her. Her entire worldview is so… small. So
transactional. “Why do you assume everyone covets the man you fancy?”
1/4
I ask, my tone one of pure, clinical curiosity.
15:36
< Chapter 330
Lucky Draw
it’s almost abstract. But I have just spent three years in a gilded prison, married to a different version of the same archetype. The mere sight of such opulent, emotionally stunted men now makes me feel nauseous, not covetous.
It’s 2025, I challenge, leaning forward slightly. “Are you still engrossed in these petty, domestic rivalries? Fighting over a man like he’s the last lifeboat on the Titanic?”
Vicky’s face flushes a deep, mottled red. I can see the raw, physical urge to strike me flashing in her eyes. But she refrains, her gaze darting around at our onlooking colleagues. She knows the rules of this particular jungle.
Let’s see, she vows, her voice dropping to a venomous whisper. “I’ll ensure Mikhail fires you.”
As if summoned by her threat, the elevator doors at the end of the hall slide open with a soft chime. Mikhail emerges, Harold following just a step behind him. Vicky’s expression transforms instantly.
The fury is replaced by a triumphant, wounded righteousness. She has found her champion.
With a newfound sense of vindication, she hastens to intercept him. “Mikhail! This is the employee your company has engaged? She plays games during work hours instead of fulfilling her duties!”
Mikhail’s brow furrows slightly, a sign of mild irritation. “Who?”
2/4
15:37
asks, his voice flat. Vicky darts a triumphant glance back at
<Chapter 330
Lucky Draw
It’s her! The one who hardly ever shows up for work. Today, she finally deigns to grace us with her presence, only to indulge in games. What purpose does such a person serve in the company?
Mikhail’s gaze follows Vicky’s accusing finger, which is pointed directly at my chest. A flicker of something like recognition and annoyance crosses his face. “Gemma?”
Yes! Vicky confirms, smug. “Who else could it be?”
What happens next freezes the entire department, Vicky included, in a state of suspended disbelief.
Mikhail gently but firmly pulls Vicky’s hand away from his arm, creating a space between them. He looks at her, then at me, and delivers his verdict with utter finality. “She can play as she pleases.”
He pauses, letting the words sink into the stunned silence. “I permit her to not come to work at all.”
The air is sucked out of the room. Not only Vicky, but every employee in the Security Department is left gaping.
Mikhail, why? Vicky’s voice is a strangled whisper, all her confidence shattered. She can’t fathom it. What is so exceptional about me?
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