Chapter 2

"It’s not just about the money," I said, looking straight up at him. "I negotiated an insider corporate rate because their general manager is a personal friend. Canceling at the eleventh hour burns my bridge with them."

David's expression darkened. "So what? Are you saying the company should burn an extra three grand just to protect your personal favor?"

"That extra money pays for guaranteed hygiene, service, and safety. I inspected the venue in person," I paused, keeping my voice level. "As for the place Piper found, I’ve never heard of it, and nobody has vetted it."

Before I could finish, Piper appeared behind David, looking heartbroken.

"Chloe, are you looking down on the place I picked? I know it’s cheap, but it has over two thousand five-star reviews on Yelp."

"Two thousand reviews can be bought for cheap."

"You..." Piper’s eyes rimmed with tears. "I know you're my senior, and I shouldn't compete with you. But I really just wanted to help the team. If you feel offended, I'm sorry."

She actually gave a dramatic little bow.

Instantly, dirty looks flew at me from every corner of the room.

Megan was the first to snap. "Seriously, Chloe? She’s an intern trying to help out. Drop the superior attitude already."

"Yeah, Chloe, Piper was just trying to keep the company from overspending."

"Insider rate or not, the math doesn't lie. $1,888 versus $888 is a no-brainer."

I took a slow breath and closed my mouth.

There was zero point in arguing. Even if I won the argument, I’d lose the room.

If they wanted cheap, let them have cheap.

I just hoped they wouldn't regret it.

The banquet was set for Friday night.

By Friday afternoon, the office felt like a holiday party.

The women touched up their makeup, the men straightened their collars, and even David broke out a fresh suit.

Piper was the center of attention.

"Piper, where is this restaurant anyway? Is it far?"

"Not far at all! Just four subway stops, then a quick two-minute walk."

"Four stops?" Jenny frowned slightly. "Isn't that pretty far out on the outskirts?"

Piper smiled sweetly. "Jenny, think about it. If it were in the middle of downtown, how could anyone serve lobster for $888 a table? Out-of-the-way places give you better value."

"True."

"Plus, the owner promised to arrange a shuttle for us, so nobody needs to stress."

Hearing that, everyone looked even more thrilled.

As I packed up my bag to leave, Jenny jogged over. "Chloe, are you really not coming?"

"Nope."

"Are you sure you're not mad?"

"Nothing to be mad about." I slung my bag over my shoulder. "As long as they're happy."

Jenny hesitated, but finally held her tongue and turned to catch up with the crowd.

I stepped outside alone. The early summer breeze brushed against my face, warm and dry.

My phone buzzed in my hand. It was a text on WhatsApp from Natalie, my high school best friend: *Hey Chloe! Is that five-star hotel friend-rate still available? My parents' golden anniversary is next month.*

I typed back: *Yeah, it is. I'll book it for you.*

*You’re a lifesaver! I checked their reviews—they're top tier.*

I looked at the screen and smiled softly.

Natalie was one of the few friends I'd kept in touch with since high school. She knew I had real connections and trusted my judgment.

Unlike my coworkers, who would rather trust an intern's sketchy screenshots than my three years of hard-earned industry experience.

Whatever. Not my problem anymore.