Part 1The Secret CEO's Brother

I went undercover as an intern at my sister's company, hiding my identity.

But after three months of hard work, HR informed me I failed the probation period. They were also withholding my entire salary.

"The reason?"

"You took 3 days off."

I looked at the HR manager, amused.

"First, it was bereavement leave. My grandmother passed away."

"Second, I followed every legal procedure."

"Third..."

I turned to look at another intern who started with me, Caleb Wilson.

"He took off three times this month just to take care of his girlfriend who had cramps. Totaling 21 days."

"Why did he pass probation?"

HR looked at me with disdain.

"This company belongs to his family. Why do you think?"

"Besides, period cramps can be excruciating. It's a matter of life and death."

"You just had a grandmother die. What gives you the right to take leave?"

* * *

On the last day of my internship, I was called into the office of HR Manager Linda Fox.

"Aiden, your application for full-time employment has been rejected."

Hearing this, I wasn't surprised.

"Additionally, because your excessive leave during the internship severely impacted workflow, per company policy, your entire salary for the three months will be deducted."

I finally couldn't help but laugh out loud.

"Manager Fox, I need an explanation."

My reaction seemed to anger her. She sat up straight, her narrow eyes glaring at me sharply.

"Explanation? What explanation do you need? It's written in black and white: leave cannot exceed two days. How long were you gone?"

"Three days," I replied calmly.

"First, I took bereavement leave for my grandmother. That is a legally protected right."

"Second, I submitted all necessary documentation and received approval from my department head."

"Third..."

My gaze moved past her to the figure outside the office, laughing boisterously with colleagues.

"Caleb Wilson, who started with me, took leave three times in three months to 'take care of his girlfriend.' Seven days each time, totaling 21 days. Why did he pass probation smoothly?"

Linda scoffed, leaning back lazily in her chair.

"Aiden, did you lose your brain during the internship? You're comparing yourself to Caleb?"

"Didn't you ask around? Do you know whose family owns this company?"

"Besides, period cramps can be life-threatening. It could affect future generations. And you?"

She scanned me up and down, her lips curling in contempt.

"You just had a grandmother die, right?"

"Old people die eventually. Is that such a big deal to take three days off? So dramatic."

I lowered my eyes and didn't argue further.

Amidst her endless chatter and biting sarcasm, I silently reached into my pocket. My finger slid along the side of my phone and pressed the lock button.

Before the screen went dark, I clearly saw the bright red, ticking timer of the voice recorder.

Good. All the evidence is here.