Chapter 4

He was using Chloe’s "idealism" and Brenda’s "loud mouth."

One in the light, one in the dark, using public outrage to overthrow me, the founder.

No wonder a lazy veteran like Brenda dared to make a scene—Arthur was backing them.

Everything made sense now.

I had noticed some discrepancies in Arthur's administrative expenses recently, but I hadn't pushed it out of respect for our history.

This daycare’s expenses were audited directly by me. Every penny was transparent, completely cutting off Arthur's ability to skim money from administrative procurement.

This had threatened his pockets.

He wasn't mad that I invested in a non-profitable project. He was terrified that I was auditing things too closely and would uncover his dirty laundry!

Chloe's "idealism" and Brenda's "gossip" were just tools he used to muddy the waters, hoping to get me fired to bury his own crimes.

The comment section this time was even more unhinged.

"Evil capitalist! I hope your company goes bankrupt tomorrow!"

"How has this toxic company not been shut down yet?"

The next morning, reporters and local news vans were parked outside our office building.

The moment I stepped inside, a heavy, suffocating silence fell over the room.

Everyone kept their heads down, pretending to work, but secretly watching me out of the corners of their eyes.

Chloe and Brenda were surrounded by a group of younger colleagues.

When Brenda saw me, she walked over with a fake, sympathetic smile.

"Eleanor, please don't be mad. Chloe's methods were a bit extreme, but she is speaking for the people."

"Why don't you just give everyone what they want to settle this?"

Chloe crossed her arms, a triumphant smirk plastered on her face.

"See this, Eleanor? The whole internet is watching."

"If you don't find a way to make us happy, I can’t promise we won't hit number one on trending tomorrow."

I ignored them both and walked straight into my office.

I thought, surely, the parents who used the daycare would stand up and speak the truth.

But I was disappointed.

All they did was post a lukewarm "Everyone calm down" in the company Slack channel, and then they went completely silent.

They were terrified of being dragged into the online firestorm and labeled as "privileged."

They were even afraid of offending Chloe's vocal mob.

My kindness had become a joke.

I let out a self-deprecating laugh.

I picked up my phone and dialed my assistant.

"Announce a company-wide meeting in the main conference room at 3:00 PM."

My assistant hesitated. "Eleanor... are we... giving in?"

"No. It’s time to give them the 'fairness' they're begging for."

"I want to see how long they can hold onto their own bowls once they smash someone else's."

Chloe and Brenda were just clowns. I wanted to drag the wolf hiding behind them out into the light.

If you don't pop the blister, the infection never clears.