A Decade’s Betrayal Chapter 04

A Decade’s Betrayal Chapter 04

Not long after Lucian and Victoria left, I grabbed my bag and headed to the company.

I’d barely settled at my desk when my manager summoned me to his office.

He looked helpless as he handed me a performance review.

“Jessica, look… I’m truly sorry. I went to bat for you, I really did.”

“I was certain my replacement would be you, but… well, the higher-ups shot down my recommendation.”

I looked into the department manager’s eyes and saw a flicker of guilt. Calmly, I pulled out my resignation letter.

“It’s alright, Mr. Thompson. Don’t worry about it. I’ve actually decided to move on.

He stared at me in shock. “You’re really leaving? You’ve worked so diligently at this company for ten years, resolving countless problems for us. And now you want to quit?”

A bitter smile tugged at my lips.

But that was exactly the point. Ten years of grinding away, and what did I have to show for it?

Nothing I’d actually wanted. That’s why I was leaving.

Lucian had once promised me that as long as I reached the position of Operations Manager, he would take me home to meet his family, and we would get married.

I had believed him.

I had worked overtime relentlessly. I had chased every performance target.

I tried everything I could. I ranked at the top of the department and received the highest evaluations.

I even watched the Operations Manager position change hands again and again.

None of it made any difference. That role was never going to be mine.

I had argued with Lucian countless times about it, but every time, he just looked at me coldly.

“Jessica, if you can’t get this position, it means you aren’t capable enough.”

“You should reflect on where you need to improve, rather than coming here to throw a tantrum.”

That was the first time I truly felt the chill in my heart.

Because besides wanting to marry Lucian, I also desperately wanted the recognition that should have come from all my hard work.

Perhaps the ache in my chest was too much. Tears welled up in my eyes, refusing to be held back.

Afraid of showing weakness in front of Mr. Thompson, I quickly stood up.

“Excuse me, Mr. Thompson. I just need a minute.”