Three days after getting terminated, I still walked into the company’s conference room. My ex‑girlfriend, Skyler, looked me over with open contempt. “Carter, given your current situation, you don’t even belong in this room.” She paused, her tone turning patronizing, almost generous. “Hand over your client portfolio and transition everything properly for Dax.” “Maybe then I’ll let you stay—scrubbing toilets.” After ten years by her side, this was how it ended. Mopping floors in the company I helped build. I didn’t move. The door opened, and her assistant stepped inside, stopping beside me. “Let me introduce everyone,” “This is our new CEO.” When Skyler, my ex‑girlfriend and former CEO, gleefully told me that her earlier attempt to win me back was just a joke, I didn’t get angry. I just pulled out my phone to call a cab home. The colleagues around us stared with mocking eyes, sneering: “Carter, the CEO said she doesn’t want you around. Why are you still here? Go on, book another flight!” “Didn’t you say you got an offer overseas? What happened—they changed their mind about you?” Skyler watched them cold‑shoulder me with indulgence, making no move to stop them. This kind of suffocating, humiliating workplace bullying had surrounded me for years. In the past, I would’ve fought back, hurt that my CEO girlfriend wouldn’t speak up for me. Now, I felt nothing—like watching clowns perform. “My business isn’t your concern, is it?” I said calmly. Skyler snorted, her eyes sweeping over me with disgust: “Still acting tough at a time like this?” “With your limited skills, if I hadn’t carried you all these years, you might not even have food on the table!” “Going abroad? What a joke.” Yes, I was a top‑tier graduate who’d turned down a dream offer to help her build a company from scratch. But in Skyler’s eyes, I was worthless—someone who’d only survived because of her. It almost made me laugh. I’d loved Skyler completely. Even staying in a mid‑level role forever wouldn’t have bothered me. But then she started reassigning my projects to her new assistant, Dax, without consulting me. She even pinned Dax’s mistakes on me, forcing me to take the fall. Then she used that as an excuse to cut my pay and suspend me, while promoting Dax and giving him a raise. That’s when I finally woke up. This one‑sided relationship had to end. So I quit on the spot, broke up with her, and decided to pursue my career abroad. I never expected her to show up just before my flight to play this “joke” on me. For a moment, I didn’t feel sadness—just bewilderment. How blind had I been, falling for someone like her? I shook my head, not bothering to argue: “You’re right about everything. Can I go now?” I stepped around Skyler, ready to leave. But she grabbed my arm, staring me down with disdain: “You’re really committed to the act, aren’t you? Your ‘overseas offer’ is exposed, and you’re still pretending?” “For old times’ sake, I’ll give you an out.” “Come back with me, and I’ll make you Dax’s assistant.” Seeing her condescending act, I finally understood the real point of her joke. On the surface, it was a bet with Dax to see if I’d take the bait. Really, she just wanted to keep me at the company as a workhorse for her and Dax. I had to admit, Skyler had planned Dax’s career carefully—promotion, raise, even an assistant. As for me, I’d helped her achieve her dream of running a company, and she’d taken everything from me to pave Dax’s way. I laughed coldly. “Dax isn’t skilled enough to deserve my help.” Skyler’s face darkened. “Carter, it seems I’ve been too soft on you all these years. That’s why you’re so full of yourself—” Before she could finish, a figure approached from across the terminal. “Skyler!” Her expression instantly softened. “Dax!” Dax was the only one in the whole company who didn’t call her “CEO”—he used her first name. Even I, her actual boyfriend, never had that privilege. Dax glanced at me and smiled at Skyler. “See? I knew Carter’s ‘overseas move’ was just an excuse. He never actually left.” Skyler shot me a sidelong glare, her eyes full of contempt. “Some people overestimate their importance—think the company can’t run without them!” “Not like you, Dax. You’re capable and humble. Since he won’t take the offer, let’s drop it.” “Let’s go.” But Dax held Skyler’s hand, putting on a pitiful look. “Skyler, wait. Ever since Carter quit, I haven’t been able to find my watch.” “It was my grandmother’s heirloom.” Then he turned to me, pleading: “Carter, please give it back to me.” Before I could process what was happening, Skyler glared at me furiously. “Carter, you stole something?” I started to deny it, but she cut me off coldly. “Don’t even try. Why would Dax make this up?” “You’re jobless now—who knows what you’re capable of?” Then she ordered the others: “Open his suitcase and check!” I stared at Skyler in disbelief. After ten years together, she knew my character better than anyone. But on Dax’s word alone, she would publicly rummage through my luggage? Earlier, with her cruel joke, I hadn’t wanted to engage. But now, this bullying crossed a line. Not disappointment. Not heartache. Just anger and disgust. “Stop!” I shouted, but Dax pretended to be sincere. “Carter, why so defensive? You didn’t actually take it, did you?” That made Skyler look at me with even more disgust. She signaled two people to block me as she said coldly: “Ignore him. Keep searching.” Watching my suitcase being dumped, my clothes and belongings scattered on the floor, my anger peaked. I yelled for airport security. Only then did they sheepishly back off. “It’s not here,” Dax said, sounding disappointed. “Forget it. Let’s not make things harder for Carter. He’s having a tough enough time.” But Skyler shot me a fierce look. “I think someone already sold it.” Then she said gently to Dax: “It’s fine. I’ll buy you a new one.” As she left, she threw me a cold glance. “Carter, when you’re living on the streets, don’t come begging to me.” With that, she left with the group, Dax shooting me a挑衅 look over his shoulder. I said nothing, just laughed coldly inside. They didn’t know yet—the company’s projects had imploded. It was about to go bankrupt and be acquired. And I’d turned down the overseas trip because the new parent company had appointed me as the incoming CEO.
My new company was headquartered overseas—a well‑known enterprise. Back at graduation, I’d received an offer from them thanks to my record. But Skyler talked me into staying to build a startup with her, so I’d turned it down. After the breakup, they’d reached out immediately, inviting me to join. But just before boarding, I got a call: their domestic subsidiary was acquiring local firms to consolidate resources, including Skyler’s company. They wanted me to be the new CEO. After dropping my luggage at home, I set a meeting with Mr. Quinn, the domestic liaison. I arrived early at the restaurant to wait. But unexpectedly, I saw Skyler and Dax there, laughing over lunch. When they noticed me, Skyler froze for a second. She walked over with an irritated look. “Carter, are you stalking me now?” “Weren’t you all tough earlier? Having regrets already?” Before I could speak, Dax smiled and said: “Skyler, there were a lot of people at the airport. Carter was just saving face.” “Tell you what—if Carter apologizes sincerely, I’m sure Skyler would still give you a chance.” “Right, Skyler?” Skyler looked at me with disapproval, pretending reluctance. “Since Dax is sticking up for you, fine. Finish this bottle of wine, and I’ll let you be an assistant.” She pointed to a full wine bottle on the table. I laughed inwardly. Skyler knew perfectly well I had stomach issues and couldn’t drink. She was just making me beg. But she’d miscalculated. “You’re overthinking it. I’m waiting for someone.” “Waiting for someone? Hah, you’re really committed to the act.” Skyler sneered. “I’ve known you for years. I know your little games.” “You just think being Dax’s assistant is beneath you, don’t you?” “But these days, what’s pride worth?” Just then, Mr. Quinn, the person I was meeting, walked over. He offered his hand. “Sorry to keep you waiting, Mr. Evans.” I ignored Skyler and shook his hand with a smile. “Mr. Quinn, let’s talk inside. There’s a bit of noise out here.” “Of course.” Skyler stared in disbelief. As I turned to enter the private room with Mr. Quinn, I heard Dax say loudly: “Looks like Carter scheduled a meeting with a headhunter. Still job‑hunting, huh?” The next moment, Skyler stepped in front of me. She smirked. “Carter, you’ve really grown a spine, huh? You’d rather scrape for jobs than ask me for help?” “But let me remind you—given your track record, I’ve already talked to every firm in town. No one will hire you.” “Starting to regret it now?” She looked at me with a half‑smile, waiting for me to fold. But she was wrong. Skyler’s influence wasn’t enough to threaten me. And because of my departure, she’d let Dax take over all major projects, pushing the company to the brink of collapse. She had no idea. I said calmly: “Skyler, confidence is good. I hope you keep that attitude when your company goes bankrupt and gets acquired.” “You—!” Skyler was about to snap, but instead she turned to Mr. Quinn. She shoved a business card into his hand. Arrogantly, she said: “Skyler Vance, CEO of McAsh Group. Carter is a former employee of mine—fired for misconduct.” “I’d advise your firm to be careful.” With that, she glanced at me, linked arms with Dax, and strode off. Mr. Quinn frowned at the card, then looked at me. “This…” “Just clowns. Let’s talk inside.” I smiled slightly. Mr. Quinn tossed the card into a trash can. Inside, we discussed acquiring Skyler’s company. We’d capitalize on McAsh Group’s project failures and buy it at a low price. Mr. Quinn handed me the current staff list, asking me to help optimize it. I knew everyone’s capabilities and conduct intimately, and promised a plan soon. After the meeting, I headed home. But as soon as I stepped inside, I saw Skyler on my couch. Crossing her legs, she glared coldly. I frowned. “What are you doing here?”
I glanced at the door. Then I remembered I hadn’t deleted her fingerprint after the breakup. Skyler didn’t answer, just said coldly: “Who told you my company was going bankrupt?” I was changing my shoes and ignored her. Skyler’s face darkened further. “You got your wish. The company collapsed.” I raised an eyebrow, surprised Mr. Quinn had moved so fast. Mentioned at noon, done by afternoon. Skyler went on: “Carter, I don’t know how you got that tip‑off.” “But don’t celebrate too soon.” “The firm acquiring us is a major player. They’ll handle the project issues.” “I’ll still be in management.” I made myself tea, unsurprised. Of course I knew. My optimization list wasn’t final yet, so existing staff were temporarily retained. “And?” I asked flatly. Skyler stared intently. “Hand over your client portfolio to Dax, and I’ll arrange a manager role for you in the new company.” “You know with the parent company’s backing, McAsh will be stronger than ever.” “A manager title is a generous offer.” I almost laughed. She said it so righteously, as if granting me a favor. But I knew the truth: after the acquisition, Mr. Quinn had circulated the development plan I’d drafted. One key point: roles would be based on merit under my leadership. Skyler just wanted to use my contacts to boost Dax into a VP role. Her love for Dax ran deep. Too bad she’d backed the wrong horse. “Skyler, you’re naive.” My words darkened her face. She stood and stepped toward me. Her gaze was piercing. “Carter, I know you’re jealous of Dax.” “You’re upset I changed, that I treat him so well.” “But get this—our statuses are different now. I’m the boss. The capitalist.” “And you? You work for me. A boyfriend like you hasn’t been on my level for a long time.” “But Dax… he brings me freshness. The joy of being a woman. You can’t compare.” Skyler looked at me deeply, her voice oddly soft. “I’ll give you one night to decide.” With that, she turned and left. I shook my head, annoyed. I deleted her fingerprint immediately, then opened my laptop and sent the layoff list for the next day. The following morning, I started at the company officially. As I entered, colleagues were buzzing about the acquisition. Skyler was painting a rosy picture as usual. Saying she’d remain in management, and if everyone worked hard, things would stay the same. Until someone noticed me. Her eyes lit up. She walked over, sounding like she’d expected me. “Changed your mind? Ready to hand over the client list to Dax?”
I laughed and shook my head. Skyler’s face fell. Before she could speak, Dax smiled and said: “Carter, why the act?” “If you weren’t handing over the contacts, why come?” “Don’t tell me you’re here to work.” The other colleagues chuckled. I raised an eyebrow. “Actually, I am here to work.” That drew louder laughs, fingers pointing. “Work? He’s probably job‑hunting, thinks he can sneak in after the acquisition!” “Dream on.” “Carter, what about that overseas offer? Applying here now? Hilarious!” I was about to reply when Skyler cut in, her expression dark. “Carter, when will you drop the act!” “I told you—give Dax the contacts, and I was giving you a chance. Still being stubborn?” “Didn’t you hear me yesterday? Do you really want to stay unemployed?” I shook my head, almost pitying her. “Skyler, you’re the one about to be unemployed. You should plan ahead.” Skyler looked at me and burst into mocking laughter. “Listen to him! Has he lost it? Telling me to plan ahead?” “What, I’m the former CEO. You think you can fire me?” “Carter, I bet that with me here, you won’t even get a janitor role—” Just then, two people entered through the main doors. It was the team Mr. Quinn from headquarters had sent to help me restructure. Skyler recognized them. Her expression shifted, and she forced a smile as she approached. “Mr. Higgins, you’re here. Has the new CEO arrived? I should greet him.” Mr. Higgins glanced at her, said nothing, walked straight to me, and gave a respectful nod. Then he announced to everyone: “This is our new CEO, Mr. Evans!” For a moment, Skyler’s smile froze. She asked, strained: “Mr. Higgins, you’re joking, right?” “This… Carter is a washed‑up nobody. How could he—” Suddenly, Mr. Higgins pulled out the layoff list I’d drafted the day before and thrust it toward her. Pointing at her and Dax, he said coldly: “You’re both terminated. Pack your things and leave. Now.”
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