Chapter 1

Just as I finalized the three-hundred-million-dollar M&A deal, I heard Charlotte tell her assistant, Sarah, from outside my office:

“Tomorrow’s presentation? Change the lead for the M&A project to Michael.”

My hand, poised to open the door, froze.

Sarah hesitated, “But Richard has been crunching data all night for the past two weeks, and clients are specifically coming for him…”

Charlotte didn’t miss a beat, her tone dismissive:

“Michael just graduated; he needs to build his network and establish himself in the industry. Richard is already the boss; what’s the use of these empty titles?”

“Once this commission comes through, I’ll buy him that race car. It’ll be his compensation.”

The next day, at the big meeting, Charlotte pressed my hand, explaining, “Let Michael take credit for this one. I’ll privately transfer your compensation later.”

I pulled my hand away, listening in silence through the entire presentation.

Seven years of marriage, and all I got was her using my hard work and dedication to pave someone else’s way.

That race car and the boss's position? Whoever wants them can have them. I’m done with this.