Chapter Three

Samantha’s pulse raced as she stepped into the opulent office, the rich scent of polished mahogany and leather filling her nostrils. Chris, the head of human resources, was lounging behind his imposing desk, his laughter echoing through the room as he chatted on the phone. She gently closed the door behind her, the soft click reverberating in the spacious office, and approached him with measured steps, clutching her phone and documents tightly.

Soft light filtered through the large windows, casting long shadows across the room. The air was heavy with the aroma of fresh coffee and the faint scent of cigar smoke. The walls were adorned with framed certificates and photographs, showcasing years of corporate achievements. Chris’s voice was a low hum, punctuated by occasional bursts of laughter, creating a surreal and almost otherworldly atmosphere.

After what felt like an eternity, Chris finally ended the call, his laughter hanging in the air like a ghostly echo. He looked up, his eyes gleaming with amusement.

“Well, look who’s here to visit. Didn’t you swear you’d never come in here again?”

She glared at him, her jaw set. The tension in the room was palpable, thick like a fog.

“Have a seat,” he gestured, his smile not reaching his eyes.

She remained standing, her glare unwavering. “Lily said you wanted to see me. Why wasn’t I notified about the change in time for the meeting?”

Chris’s smile faded slightly. “Sit down, Samantha.”

“Cut the crap,Chris. I would have sat if I wanted to.”

“Still feisty and stubborn, I see.”

“Just answer me! Why wasn’t I notified?”

Chris sighed, leaning back in his chair, the leather creaking under his weight. “I wanted to handle this the easy way, but since you prefer it the hard way, no problem.”

“What are you talking about?”

“The board made a decision, and I was told to give you this.” He picked up a white envelope from his desk and handed it to her.

Samantha stared at him, then at the envelope, suspicion swirling in her eyes. Reluctantly, she placed the papers she was holding on the table, walked over, and snatched the envelope from him. She tore it open and pulled out the letter inside, her eyes scanning the words.

Following the company’s letterhead was a termination letter addressed to Miss Samantha Brooks. She froze, her heart racing. This had to be a mistake. She looked up at Chris, her voice trembling. “This joke is way too expensive.”

Chris chuckled, the sound cold and devoid of humor. “You think I’m joking?”

“This is probably just another one of your tricks to get me to go out with you, even after I told you I’m not interested.”

Chris laughed again, a cold, mocking sound. “You’re so full of yourself, aren’t you?”

“This doesn’t make any sense! I’m one of the most hardworking employees here. I do my job diligently, mind my business, and get along with everyone. Why would I deserve a termination letter?”

Chris leaned forward, his eyes narrowing. “Are you sure you get along with everyone? The boss asked me to prepare the termination letter.”

“What? Ethan?”

He nodded, a smug smile playing on his lips.

“No, that can’t be true!” She shook her head, trying to dismiss his words.

“Why? Because you’re sleeping with him?”

Samantha’s heart stopped. Her eyes burned with unshed tears, but she refused to let them fall. “You know nothing about me, and I’d suggest you keep your mouth shut before throwing baseless accusations at me.”

Chris shrugged. “Whatever helps you sleep at night. The order came from the boss. You’re officially fired.”

“How’s that even possible? The letter doesn’t say why I was fired.”

“You sure? You didn’t see the grounds of misconduct there?”

“What misconduct? I’ve dedicated my whole life to this company!”

“Sleeping with the boss?”

“You’re nothing but a piece of trash!”

“For someone who just got fired, you’ve got some nerve.”

She glared at him, leaving the documents she’d placed on the table, and stormed out. The sound of the door slamming echoed through the corridor.

Outside Chris’s office, tears blurred her vision as she frantically dialed Ethan’s number. It went to voicemail. She tried again, but he cut the call. Desperation clawed at her insides. She needed answers.

Determined, Samantha headed to Ethan’s office. “Is Mr.Blake in?” she asked Lily, her voice shaking.

“No, ma’am. He hasn’t been in today.”

“What about his assistants?”

“They aren’t here either.”

Samantha’s heart sank. She dialed his number again, her fingers trembling. At that moment, the elevator doors opened, and there he was, Ethan, flanked by his assistants and a stunning woman who looked like she’d stepped out of a fashion magazine.

Samantha’s heart shattered as she watched them, laughter and casual conversation flowing between them. Summoning her courage, she approached.

“How may I help you?”Ethan’s cold voice cut through her like a knife.

Tears welled up in her eyes. “Chris served me with a termination letter.”

“So?” He glared at her, his tone devoid of any empathy.

“So?” Her voice broke. He had never spoken to her like this before. “You’re going to comply, or do you want me to call security to escort you?”

Tears streamed down her face, but she didn’t bother to wipe them away. “E…Ethan!” she called, her voice cracking with pain. But his assistant blocked her path.

“You should leave, ma’am.”

“Why? I didn’t do anything!”

“I’ll have no choice but to call security.”

Samantha’s sobs echoed in the hallway. “If everyone is being unfair to me, not you too.”

The assistant’s eyes softened. “I care about you, Miss Samantha, and that’s why I want you to leave.”

“No...no...I need answers.”

“Mr. Blake ordered your termination.”

“Why? I didn’t do anything to hurt him.”

“I don’t know. He has moved on, and I think you should too. That woman is his fiancée, and they’re getting married this weekend.”

“What?” Samantha stared in horror.

“I hope you disappear forever.” He gave her a small, sad smile before turning away.