Chapter 1606

Arabella was in the midst of wrapping up the annual year-end meeting when her phone buzzed

insistently. Glancing at it, she saw a text from Ms. Kiki.

“Summer, sweetheart, don’t worry about the trending topic. I’ve got it handled. They should know better

than to cross me, and now, not one of them is getting off scot-free!”

Ms. Kiki, Arabella’s agent, was known for her fiery disposition. It took a lot to rile her up, unless.

Curiosity piqued, Arabella tapped into the news feed and sure enough, the top trending headline

screamed, “Summer Lip-Sync Scandal.”

Right beneath it was another hot topic, “Summer Accused of Plagiarism.”

“Ms. Bennett, that concludes my report.”

At that moment, the head of the International Marketing Division stood rigid at the conference table, his

spine icy with tension, much like a convict awaiting sentence.

Arabella lifted her gaze, noting how he hardly dared to breathe. She spoke with calm authority, “Not

bad. Proceed with the plan, but keep an eye on the budget.”

“Thank you for your approval, Ms. Bennett.” The division head exhaled in relief and took his seat.

“This year has been demanding for everyone. I’ve received several emails about certain concerns, and

I’d like to address them now. Since it’s the first year I took over Collins Fashion, there are questions

about whether to hold the annual gala, if it’s necessary, and which date it should be on. The HR head

can organize an anonymous vote for all staff to decide.”

The executives nodded in agreement. While some employees preferred to skip the annual gala, others

relished the opportunity. An anonymous vote would allow everyone to express their opinions without

fear.

“As for the matter that’s on everyone’s mind—the year-end bonus—rest assured that the company

won’t let you down. The finance head will announce the details in a couple of days. Furthermore,

regarding the holiday break.”

All executives immediately tensed, straightening in their seats, eager to learn if the company would

offer time off, and if so, for how long, and whether it would be paid leave.

“The national holidays totaled seven days off. However, since everyone has worked so hard this year,

I’ve decided to extend the holiday. I’ll give you a full twelve days of paid leave.”

Arabella’s announcement was met with a round of applause and cheers, faces alight with joy.

Such an extended paid holiday was nearly impossible in other companies.

“During these twelve days, each department will need to have at least two staff members on duty to

keep the company running smoothly. The administrative head will compile a list in advance. Those

willing to work overtime will be paid five times their normal wage.”

The crowd gasped. Five times? Wasn’t that a bit much?

Most companies offered double, maybe triple pay for overtime. Quintuple pay was unprecedented!

“I’ll do the overtime!” blurted the perpetually single administrative head, “I’m up for working all twelve

days straight!”

Laughter rippled through the room, and everyone seemed to appreciate the new policy.

“Any other questions?” Arabella’s eyes swept over the group.

“No further questions.”

“Nothing from me, Ms. Bennett.”

“All clear here.”

“Then let’s call it a day,” Arabella declared. As they dispersed, everyone smiled.

Ever since Arabella took over the company, everyone's treatment had genuinely improved, and working

conditions had become more comfortable.