“Emily,” whispered Susan Johnson, pulling me aside. “While you were hospitalized, your husband came to the company.”
My heart skipped. “What did he come for?”
“He cried to everyone, saying you ran over his cousin Chloe, that she’s now gravely ill in bed, and he has to work himself to death to pay the debt.”
Susan looked at me closely.
“Emily, is it true?”
My face burned with shame. Daniel had come to my workplace and smeared me, making all my colleagues believe I was a hit-and-run criminal.
“No, Susan, it’s not true at all—”
“Enough, don’t bother explaining.” She patted my shoulder. “The boss wants to see you. Be careful.”
Anxious, I walked into Mrs. Thompson’s office. She sat behind her desk, face stern.
“Emily, sit.” She gestured to the chair. “The company already knows about your situation.”
“Mrs. Thompson, I can explain—”
“No need.” She cut me off, sliding an agreement across the desk. “Your actions have seriously damaged the company’s reputation. This is the decision.”
My hand trembled as I picked it up. The paper read: Your salary will be cut in half for the next three years as compensation to the company. If you refuse, you will be terminated immediately.
“Mrs. Thompson, this—”