When Love Becomes a Cage (Melanie) novel Chapter 62

The folks at Design Department III looked under the weather, but I didn't let it bother me and returned to my office.

It wasn't long before I got a message from Jade.

[Someone's trying to cozy up to me. It seems these coworkers want to join us but can't bring themselves to snub Kayla.]

[Don't worry about me. Kayla’s little schemes can't touch me. Rest assured.]

I sent her a gif in response, then turned to ask my coworkers what they were in the mood for. The Design Department crew was mostly young, and even the more seasoned designers had a lively streak. It didn't take long for everyone to settle on heading out for some fondue.

Located on the fourth floor of Crestview Mall, the place was a haven for various eateries. So, after work, our group made our way to the fondue restaurant.

As we arrived, Kayla and her team from Marketing Department III strolled up in their time.

Kayla mocked. "Melanie, dear, or should I say, Mrs. Patterson, this is what you treat everyone to? Oh gosh, such poor taste. Isn't this what students would go for? How cheap can you get?"

I was used to her snide comments and didn't pay much mind. Clyde had indeed transferred a million to me. Without that, I might have had second thoughts even about the fondue.

Lina led the charge with a roll of her eyes. "We love fondue, thank you very much!"

My colleagues interrupted to support.

"Looking down on fondue, dare you never have it again!"

"You're so rich. Why don't we see you treating anyone?"

"What's the Administrative Department doing here in the Design Department? Trying to win hearts, heh?"

Kayla looked at them disdainfully. "You eat whatever your boss eats. We're off to the top-floor restaurant."

I knew the top floor housed one of the most extravagant Western restaurants, where the average cost per person could easily hit a couple hundred bucks.

Somewhat troubled, I bit my lip as I looked at her. "Ms. Osborne, you're not planning to use my marital asset to treat everyone, are you? Wouldn't that make it my treat?"

Jade waved her fists a bit before collapsing. I removed her shoes and watched her with frustration and resolve, determined to help her secure her position at the company.

I recommended a company I had previously collaborated with to Jade the next day. By noon, she had sealed their first major project, energizing everyone.

Jade ran into my office, wrapping me in a bear hug. "Melanie, look, I secured this contract myself. Oh my god, you're amazing."

Seeing her nearly speechless with excitement, I pushed her away, slightly annoyed. "Come on. It's just one contract. There'll be more. What's the big deal? Wipe that drool. You're killing me."

She offered me a coffee and eagerly helped with a few tasks. As she asked a bunch of questions about the partnership, her excitement was obvious. Then, she left, still clearly thrilled.

But I hadn't told her about my chemo session scheduled for the next day. She had her career and life, and I couldn't keep relying on her.

The next day, Jade was off early to the office while I took a leave to go to the hospital. My frequent absences had become the norm for HR since I used to be off work frequently.

But I hadn't expected to find Jade in trouble again after I returned from chemotherapy.