I've always been someone who relies on my own skills and hard work, even with the looming title of

"future boss lady

" at StarQuest Enterprises. I refused to be just a decorative piece., In my first week, I combed through all the marketing clients' files and the company's resources. I got to grips with the performance of every marketing employee, especially focusing on the past six months. I reorganized the team and introduced a new incentive system., They say a new broom sweeps clean. I am not resetting the system to establish myself, but to ignite a drive in everyone-to not let themselves down, nor the company, especially after Conrad's pressure to hire me was brushed aside by them., Just when I thought the marketing department was about to shine, I got feedback that all our clients were pulling out, even the ones that were previously secure. It was clear Conrad was behind this, unable to pressure the company directly, he resorted to underhanded tactics to make them let me go., This situation was my battle to report to Grant. His response was surprisingly calm,

"If Conrad can take them, they weren't ours to begin with. We'll find new ones.

", Grant's confidence was unexpected. I showed him the reports, pointing out that 80% of our clientele had been poached by Conrad.,

"It's fine, as long as he doesn't take you away, I trust you, Ms. Hudson, to rebuild,

" Grant's faith in me was astonishing., And though I had the confidence, his particular attention felt unusual.,

"Mr. Smith, shouldn't you report this to the president?

" I suggested, quickly adding,

"I mean, losing so many clients at once... It might put you in a tough spot if you don't.

", Grant chuckled, a look of realization dawning on his face.

"Ms. Hudson, I finally understand...

", He paused, then continued,

"Why Mr. Wagner at StarQuest Enterprises was so reluctant to let you go.

", Was that what he truly wanted to say?, Grant added,

"As for your concern... it's already been reported. The interference from StarQuest Enterprises at your hiring was expected, and so was this. You needn't worry, everything's under control.

" So, I was overthinking it?, With that, there wasn't much left to say, I just nodded,

"I just didn't want to be a liability.

", Grant waved it off,

"Not at all, Ms. Hudson, feel free to 'cause trouble'.

", Uh?, He grinned, his teeth shining,

"What I mean is, we trust in your capabilities. You won't let us down.

", I managed a half-smile,

"I'm not a miracle worker.

",

"Of course, you are,

" Grant teased,

"You're a goddess.

", I was speechless., Despite the lack of pressure from the company, I was still frustrated., I couldn't believe how childish Conrad could be, putting his own interests above the company's and potentially hindering other companies' growth., From what I've seen at StarQuest Enterprises, though not the most famous, its strength and technical expertise were top-notch., If more talents like Ernest were there, this company was bound to be even more brilliant., I couldn't let Conrad's actions damage such a promising company and be branded a femme fatale., The only person who could stop Conrad was his father, Herschel. This wasn't a conversation for a phone call; it had to be in person., So, it was decided, I had to visit the Wagner family., Search the website on Google to access chapters of novels early and in the highest quality.