Undercover Boss's Takeover

The next morning, in the company's largest conference room, the project acceptance meeting began right on schedule.

Although I'd been "forced out," I was still the project's nominal lead, and my name remained on the client's invitation list.

So I deliberately changed into professional attire and arrived at the company entrance on time.

The moment I reached the front desk, I was stopped.

"Well, if it isn't Chloe the Great Idler."

Patricia, dressed in a brand-new red suit and flawless makeup, was directing Vinny as he moved materials around. When she saw me, she cried out theatrically.

"Why are you here? Got fired and still won't give up—came back to steal things?"

The young woman at the front desk looked torn. "Chloe, Mr. Jackman instructed us that your access card has been deactivated. You can't go in…"

"Did you hear that? You're not allowed in!"

Patricia folded her arms and strode over, chin lifted. "Today's a big day—headquarters' top boss is personally here for the acceptance. We can't afford someone with a stain on her record like you going inside. If you offend an important guest, we won't be able to take responsibility."

"Headquarters' top boss?"

"Scared now?" Tasha walked over as well, a thick stack of documents in her hands. "I hear HQ is taking this very seriously. The president himself is leading the team. We're about to show our faces in front of him. Once the acceptance goes through, promotions and raises are a done deal."

"As for you…" She looked me up and down and snorted. "You're only fit to carry trays at that coffee shop across the street."

"Why waste time talking to her?" Vinny urged impatiently. "Hurry up and chase her off. We don't need her bad vibes here."

Patricia's eyes flicked, and she suddenly smiled.

"Don't rush. Since she's here, why not let her go in? Let her watch with her own eyes as we collect the bonuses and receive commendations. That kind of contrast—doesn't it feel even better?"

Tasha immediately caught on. "You really think things through, Patricia. That's a kill without spilling blood."

Patricia turned to the front desk. "Let her in. Just say she's someone we invited… a cleaner. The conference room could use someone to pour tea anyway."

The receptionist didn't dare defy them and silently opened the door for me.

I said nothing and walked straight in.

The conference room was already full.

In addition to the client representatives, senior management was present. Mr. Jackman was at the front, fussing over the equipment like a lapdog.

When he saw me enter, his expression changed, and it looked like he was about to explode—until Patricia hurried over and whispered a few words in his ear.

After listening, Mr. Jackman broke into a malicious smile.

"Since you're willing to contribute what little value you have left, go stand over there. When the president arrives, be sharp about it. Don't let the tea run dry."

He pointed to a spot by the water dispenser in the corner.

There was a pile of disposable paper cups and a trash can beside it.

Everyone in the room looked at me, their eyes filled with mockery and disdain.

I walked to the corner, but instead of grabbing the cups, I pulled out a chair and sat down openly.

"Who told you to sit there?" Patricia shrieked. "That seat is reserved for leadership! Do you think you're worthy?"

"Get up! Go pour water!" Vinny rushed over, reaching out to grab me.

At that moment, the conference room doors were pushed open.