Chapter 3

Before I could self-reflect, Leah, another one of Carter's sycophants, stood up.

She said, "Chloe, you're out of line! Carter is our manager. Who are you to disrespect him? Apologize to him right now!"

Normally, I have a sharp tongue and never back down.

But I stayed quiet this time.

Leah was our class president and tight with our college advisor. If I made an enemy out of her, she could make my academic life miserable.

Seeing my silence, Leah got even bolder. She pointed at my outfit.

"Carter has told us multiple times that female delivery girls should wear short shorts or skirts for a professional look. You’re the only one who wears long jeans. Do you think his rules don't apply to you?"

Lily chimed in, "Exactly! You're the only troublemaker here. Look at everyone else. We all follow Carter's dress code."

I looked around the room. Sure enough, all the other girls were wearing short shorts or mini skirts.

I was the only one in full-length jeans.

Before I could call out this incredibly creepy "dress code,"

Carter leaned back in his chair and banged on his desk.

"Look, I'm a straightforward guy. I treat you all like my own daughters. I don't play mind games. If I want to look at your legs, I'll straight-up tell you to wear shorts. If I want to check out your figures, I'll tell you to put your hands on your hips."

"I really don't understand why you, Chloe, have so much hostility toward an honest, open guy like me."

I was utterly dumbfounded.

How did he manage to spin blatant sexual harassment into being "honest and open"?

Leah eagerly agreed. "Exactly! Carter is so genuine. Unlike those creeps on campus who secretly stare at us, Carter is just upfront about it. It’s actually refreshing!"

Lily nodded. "Right? When Carter looks at our legs, it's totally wholesome and professional. When other guys do it, it makes me sick!"

Wow. These two just turned a creep into a saint.

I clearly hadn't insulted them enough.

The other delivery kids looked furious but kept gesturing at me to let it go.

They needed this job to pay for tuition and groceries.

But I didn't care about this job. I didn't need the money. Still, I didn't want Carter taking his anger out on the others because of me.

So, I forced a fake smile. "You're so right, Carter. Forgive me, I'm just a dumb, naive college student. I'll do better. Please forgive me this once!"

Carter let out a smug grunt. "Hmm."

Leah and Lily weren't satisfied.

"A verbal apology? Carter just gave you a life lesson. Shouldn't you buy him a Starbucks to show your gratitude?"

Before I could reply, Carter waved his hand. "I wouldn't dare drink her coffee. I'll stick to the tea Lily brewed for me."

Lily practically skipped over to pour him a cup.

Carter looked at me condescendingly. "I know your family isn't doing well, Chloe. Your clothes are always so plain, and you clearly need this job. As long as you behave, I won't make things hard for you."

"After all, my fatherly instincts... I treat you all like my own daughters."