Their behavior had already crossed the line between boss and assistant.
Anyone watching would've assumed Ethan was Nora's husband.
I'd confronted her about him before. Every time, I was the one who ended up apologizing.
The Nora standing before me now was nothing like the woman I'd married.
I took a deep breath. "Those two projects I'm leading are critical to the company's transformation. The clients trust me specifically—"
"You're always going on about your own abilities," Ethan cut in, voice dripping with mockery. "Don't forget—without the company backing you, what would those abilities even be worth? Ride the right wave and even a pig can fly. Wouldn't you agree?"
Before I could respond, Nora waved her hand impatiently. "Enough. Stop acting like the company will collapse without you."
"Ethan's just as capable as you are. He just hasn't had the chance to prove it yet."
"Hand over your projects to him. The rest isn't your concern."
"And stop arguing. I run this company. When I make a decision, you follow it."
I looked at her impatient expression. At Ethan's smug grin.
I nodded.
"No need to wait until the end of the month. I'll submit my resignation now."
I paused.
"And while I'm at it, I'll draft a divorce agreement. I hope you'll sign it."
Nora froze.
Ethan's eyes flickered with barely concealed delight before he schooled his features into wounded concern. "What are you doing? I know you've never liked me. If you don't want me taking over as VP, just say so. Why drag divorce into this to threaten her?"
Nora's expression darkened. She clearly bought every word.
"Getting bolder, aren't you?" she spat. "Playing games right to my face?"
"Using divorce to control me? You think this pathetic little trick is going to work?"
"You're underestimating me, Alex."
"Go ahead. Get your divorce papers. Let's see if I dare to sign them."
She was worked up now—voice rising, eyes blazing.
She was absolutely certain I'd never leave. That I'd never give up my position in the Simmons family. That certainty made her fearless.
I didn't hesitate.
I walked out, and within the hour, I had both documents ready—the resignation letter and the divorce agreement.
When Ethan saw the clause stating I'd leave with nothing, his excitement was almost impossible to hide.
Still, he kept up the act.
"Stop this," he said, voice soft with feigned concern. "She's pregnant. How can you threaten her like this? What if the stress hurts the baby?"
He shook his head slowly.
"Besides... you love her so much. Could you really go through with it?"
"If you don't want me in your position, fine—I'll stay her assistant. I'll even resign if seeing me bothers you that much."
"Just... please don't let your marriage fall apart because of me. I couldn't live with myself."
His voice cracked on the last words. His eyes glistened, as if tears might spill at any moment.
