Chapter 353

Brielle almost burst into laughter at the sheer audacity of Spencer’s confidence. Stripping away the years of familiarity, what did Spencer have to his name except the legacy of the Dorsey family?

She didn’t want to utter a single word, yet she overheard the murmurs of discontent within the department.

“We’ve been putting in so much overtime lately. What’s the harm in a little late–night snack?”

“Yeah, she’s been on leave for so many days. We’ve all had to pick up the slack.”

It dawned on Brielle that there was more to leadership than just strength; it was about managing people. Your power was measured by how many were willing to serve you. She had never before considered the intricacies of interpersonal relationships, but now she couldn’t ignore her colleagues‘

complaints. Due to her absence, overtime had indeed increased.

She offered a smile, turning to those still present. “Friday’s coming up. Let’s do dinner on me, huh?

Spread the word to the rest, you’ve all earned it.”

The complainers were taken aback, somewhat startled. They’d never expected Brielle to show such a down–to–earth side. Back when Brielle was a manager, she was a lone wolf. So, this sudden gesture left them feeling a bit sheepish.

“Ms. Haywood, there’s quite a bunch of us in the department. This could run you a pretty penny,” one of them said.

Brielle’s smile grew more generous. “No worries. Just send me the bill afterward.” With that. she strode off.

Spencer hurried after her. “Brielle!”

She pretended not to hear him, frowning as she pressed the elevator button.

Meanwhile, the department was abuzz with whispers, especially about the one who had spoken 1. up.

“Why are you worried about Ms. Haywood’s money? She’s a director now, and with Spencer chasing her, she’ll likely marry into wealth.”

“Exactly. Let’s not hold back tomorrow night. Order the expensive stuff. I’ve never liked her much anyway.”

“First, Noah, now Spencer. Why does Brielle have all the luck?”

The other women in the department were green with envy. Hooking up with a high–up meant a life of luxury, and Brielle had snagged two. Spencer, set to inherit a chunk of the Dorsey fortune, was leagues ahead of Noah.

The loudest of the complainers was Sarah.

“I say we all go for king crab tomorrow night. If it doesn’t cost us a small fortune, we’re not doing justice to Ms. Haywood’s status.”

“Isn’t that a bit much?”

“What’s the harm? She didn’t set a limit. When others got promoted, they knew how to treat their colleagues. It took Spencer to remind her. I can’t fathom what he sees in a woman he once dismissed.”

The more Sarah thought about it, the angrier she became.

It was clear to everyone that Sarah probably had a crush on Spencer. With Spencer’s boyish charm and his history in the department, it was inevitable that some would fall for him..

“Sarah, cut it out. There are cameras here. Be careful. Do you remember what happened to Emily after crossing Brielle? She vanished.”

Someone warned Sarah, hoping to prevent any drama that might make life difficult for everyone.

Sarah pouted. “Can’t I even speak my mind? Every time I see her smug face, it just gets to me.”

Sarah’s complaints dwindled, but the department remained restless.

Brielle, who had already driven off, avoiding Spencer and returning to Pearl Estate, didn’t know any of this.

It was only after locking her door that she finally breathed a sigh of relief, feeling an unease settle in her chest. After a glass of water and a glance out the window to ensure no odd figures were following her–

fortunately. Spencer hadn’t–Brielle settled on the couch.

In the stillness, her thoughts inevitably drifted to the phone call with Max. What would they talk about when he returned?

His departure was hasty, and she didn’t even know why he had to travel abroad with Alivia. She was in the dark about everything. It was all just a gamble.

This might’ve been the only gamble she’d ever taken in her life, so she prayed silently, hoping not to lose.

Her phone chimed, and as though summoned by her thoughts, there was a picture from him. It was a cluster of small flowers.

Brielle instantly recognized them as irises. She smiled, feeling a profound sense of peace. Everything else could wait until his return.