Chapter 1

My high-powered CEO girlfriend, raking in millions every year, was so unbelievably cheap. She'd complain a single dollar for a bottle of water was too expensive, insisting I return it and just drink tap water. A two-dollar bus ticket? Pure luxury! She'd make me walk miles to a client meeting.

But when I finally signed a multi-million dollar deal, my feet aching from all the walking, and happily treated the client to a cup of coffee, Victoria called, screaming that I was being extravagant. She even unilaterally processed a refund from my account without my consent.

The coffee shop owner, humiliated, confronted us, not only voiding the order but also insulting us in front of everyone. My client, offended by Victoria's arrogance, threatened to blacklist our entire company.

I was about to call Victoria, who was out of town on business, to break the news. But then, I saw something on her male assistant Blake’s social media feed. It was a cheesy short video: Blake perched on the hood of a luxury sports car, the kind that costs a fortune and goes viral in trending videos. The caption read:

"That feeling when you share a video, and the next second, what's in it is right in front of you? Priceless."

Turns out, it wasn't that she was cheap. It was just that I wasn't worth it.

I swallowed the bitter truth, simply liking the post. Moments later, Victoria called, her voice stern.

"I know Blake's young and his words can be a bit naive sometimes, but you shouldn't cause a scene on social media. What will other employees think of him if they see this?"

"Just hand over that deal to Blake, then clarify in the company group chat that I did it to celebrate his success. When I get back from my business trip, I'll promote you and give you a raise."

Listening to her usual empty promises, I couldn't help but crack a smile.

She had no idea that the deal was already ruined because of her. And the client, who brought in 90% of our company's profits, was so offended they planned to blacklist her and her company entirely.

By the time she and Blake returned from their trip, the company would be bankrupt.