"Do you really believe you can just act however you please around here?" Helen asked. There was a blend of frustration and amusement on her face.
The manager glared at her with contempt, stepping closer and jabbing a finger toward her chest. "Let's not make this any uglier than it needs to be. If you're smart, you'll take full responsibility and apologize publicly.
"Maybe then I'll consider letting you keep your job. Otherwise, you'll be paying for your mistakes on your way out the door."
"Pay for my mistakes?" Helen shot back, meeting his gaze with conviction. "Fine, then explain your reasoning. Am I responsible for the project delays? Is it my fault that my colleagues didn't finish their work?"
"Even if you're not the one in charge, does that mean you can ignore the tasks I assigned? You're part of this company; you should prioritize its interests.
"If your colleagues aren't pulling their weight, why not step in to help? Isn't that what teamwork is all about?" the manager retorted, his tone dripping with self-righteousness.
"Teamwork, huh? So, are their salaries going to be deposited into my account, then?" Helen quipped.
"Looks like money is all you care about! You're obsessed! I don't want to waste my time arguing with you. If you have so many issues with the company, then there's no reason for you to stay!" the manager declared, issuing an ultimatum.
"I don't need you to fire me; I was going to leave anyway. I just wanted to give you a heads-up. I've compiled all the work records from the past few years.
"You might want to think carefully about how you plan to explain to the labor board and headquarters regarding your wage exploitation and the appropriation of others' accomplishments!" Helen announced, laying her cards on the table.
The manager sneered, a mocking smile spreading across his face. "Do you really think you can take me to the labor department? Go ahead! I'm not afraid of you. If you somehow manage to stay in this industry after today, I'll walk barefoot through the city!"
Tension crackled in the air as neither party was willing to back down.
Just then, a deep, resonant voice boomed from the entrance. "Who are you threatening to kick out of this industry?"
"Of course, sir!" The manager nodded earnestly and promptly guided his secretary into the office.
Moments later, he returned, holding the contract with both hands. "Mr. Xander, here's the document you requested!"
Taylor's expression turned icy as he skimmed through it. Without warning, he flung the contract at the manager's face. "Who gave you the nerve to include such exploitative clauses? Are you trying to portray my family as ruthless capitalists who prey on their employees?"
"I'm truly sorry, Mr. Xander! I implemented those measures to keep our talent. Please, give me another chance!" the manager pleaded, visibly rattled. He nearly fell to his knees in desperation, but a single piercing look from Taylor made him hesitate.
"Retaining talent has never been about power and oppression. You clearly lack an understanding of the core values that drive management at Xander Group. With a mindset like yours, it's no surprise the office is in disarray under your leadership. You're fired!"
After all the tension, Taylor's resolve was clear. He believed that anyone who disrespected women—especially those he admired—had no right to profit from his family's legacy.
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