Part 2The Secret CEO's Brother

Holding my water bottle, I walked back to my desk in the Marketing Department, expressionless.

The bustling office quieted instantly. Everyone's eyes focused on me like spotlights.

Some pitied, some were curious, but most were gloating.

I could hear whispered gossip buzzing like flies.

Ignoring everyone, I walked straight to my seat and started packing.

Keyboard, mouse pad, a mug I used for three years, and a few professional books.

When I picked up the proposal for "Project Starlight," my fingers paused.

This plan, which cost me countless sleepless nights, had become the brightest highlight on Caleb's resume.

I remembered clearly how my direct supervisor, Tom Baker—a middle-aged man with a receding hairline who lived by the motto "less trouble is better"—handed this proposal to Caleb in front of the entire department.

He praised him: "Exceptional talent, a promising future."

And me, the actual creator? I got a dismissive, "Aiden participated too. Keep working hard."

All this happened because everyone firmly believed Caleb was the Chairman's fiancé.

"Oh my, Aiden, what are you doing?"

Caleb sashayed over to me, looking down with feigned surprise and syrupy sweetness.

"Why are you packing? Did Manager Fox say something harsh?"

"Please don't take it to heart. She has a sharp tongue but a soft heart."

He reached out to hold down my box, but I dodged sideways.

Too lazy to look at him, I continued sweeping clutter into the box.

Feeling ignored, his voice took on a tone of victorious boasting:

"But don't be too sad. Just because this company didn't work out doesn't mean others won't. How about this? In a few days, I'll ask my girlfriend to look out for you and introduce you to a good job. How does that sound?"

I finally stopped, looked up at him, and said nothing.

Uncomfortable under my gaze, he puffed out his chest anyway.

I picked up the box, stood up, and walked away.

"Aiden!" The receptionist, Jenny, ran over, grabbing my arm, her eyes red.

"These people are too much! It's bullying!"

Jenny was the only person in the company who treated me as a friend.

I patted her hand, slipped the voice recorder into her pocket, and whispered, "Keep this safe for me."

She froze, then nodded heavily.

I didn't look back. Hugging the box, I walked step by step toward the elevator.

Passing the huge glass wall, I could see the faces inside, each harboring their own schemes.

The elevator doors closed slowly, cutting off all sights and sounds.