34

Four

Talia rushed into the company, her eyes darting to her wristwatch. “Almost five minutes left!” she muttered under her breath, heart racing. *My attendance bonus is really at stake.* She quickly swiped her work card at the entrance, ready to dash to her office, but Malia, her stepsister, suddenly appeared, blocking her path.

Talia groaned inwardly, rolling her eyes. “Move, Malia. I don’t have time for this.”

Malia folded her arms, a smug grin plastered on her face. "Oh, isn’t this Mrs. Donovan? Still worried about your little salary? Or should I say… attendance bonus?” Her laughter dripped with sarcasm.

Talia tried to ignore her, looking away, not wanting to engage. *Don’t let her get to you.*

But Malia wasn’t done. “Pathetic,” she continued. “Even married into the Donovan family, you’re still as poor as ever. Nothing’s changed for you, has it?”

Talia and Malia worked in the same company, often crossing paths with one another, and Malia never missed an opportunity to insult her.