Chapter 17 Revenge
A tumultuous storm of emotions raged within me, an intricate tapestry of countless threads that made decision-making a formidable task. If I chose to retreat, I could potentially evade the current maelstrom, yet the unsightly scars left in the wake of Skyliho's debacle might persist, casting a long, unshakeable shadow.
My greater concern, however, was Edward's perception of my choice. After all, a man consumed by resentment, incapable of rational judgement, would appear notably insignificant in the world of adults. Given the slight improvement in our circumstances, if we were to start afresh, the time and effort already expended would be challenging to quantify.
As I grappled with my thoughts, Edward's soft voice broke through, "John, what are your thoughts?" His words held a deeper connotation, subtly suggesting, "I believe this is a viable solution. Perhaps you should consider stepping back as well?"
Grasping his insinuation, I decided to acquiesce, replying, "Alright, since Jenny has suggested it, let's go along with it. However, I have a minor request. I wonder if Jenny would be open to it?"
Upon hearing this, Lily's brow furrowed, her tone adopting a hint of sternness, "John, don't push your luck."
Jenny, however, merely nodded lightly, signaling Lily to allow me to proceed, "Let him speak."
Facing forward, I voiced my demand with unwavering conviction, "He has consistently shown me disrespect, undermining our company culture and repeatedly flouting rules and regulations. As a leader, I implore Jenny to assign him the task of cleaning toilets as a form of self-reflection."
My words sent a ripple of murmurs through the room. Philip's face drained of color, and he retorted angrily, "John, I did disrespect you, but I have already apologized! You're just seeking revenge!"
Both Jenny and Lily's expressions darkened simultaneously, and the atmosphere grew palpably tense.
I smiled serenely, retrieving my phone from my pocket and playing a video. The footage depicted Philip lounging and ridiculing me as I cleaned his workstation, nonchalantly cracking sunflower seeds, and boasting, "Rules are meant to restrain people like you. I am the top seller; the company won't dare touch me..."
The video struck like a bolt of lightning, leaving Philip dumbfounded, "When did you record this? You... you were filming me without my consent?"
A cold smile danced on my lips, "This is what they call poetic justice."
Reflecting on his past insults, my retaliation was merely allowing him to reap the bitter harvest of his actions. Initially, my plan was to discreetly gather evidence of his misconduct and present it to the company's disciplinary department at the opportune moment, but the present situation provided the perfect platform.
The room descended into a dead silence. Lily pursed her lips, her gaze complex as she studied me, as if scrutinizing a complete stranger.
Philip attempted to defend himself, "Jenny, it was after work hours..."
"That's enough!" Jenny interrupted him, "For violating company discipline during work hours, leading others in breaking rules, you will be deducted three days of basic salary, and spend two days in the janitorial department for reflection before returning to work!"
I smirked; this punishment was merely a scratch for Philip. His high performance and hefty commissions were his true sources of income. Moreover, the assignment to the janitorial department didn't involve actual toilet cleaning; it was just a period of reflection. Such a punishment seemed too lenient.
Although I felt a twinge of dissatisfaction, I also understood that Philip's position in the marketing department was irreplaceable. His performance was his strongest defense, and even the higher-ups had to turn a blind eye to his antics.
For Jenny to truly mete out severe punishment—easier said than done.
Philip clenched his teeth, managing to force out a few words, "Yes, I will comply with Jenny's arrangement."
Jenny's gaze turned cold as she looked at me. "Are you satisfied now?"
With a wry smile, I responded resignedly, "Alright. Your decision is wise."
At the opportune moment, Lily interjected, extending a gesture of invitation, "Then, Mr. Walker, please join us in the conference room."
Edward nodded and gestured to me. "Come, John."
I followed Edward into the conference room. Although my monthly performance evaluations were consistently blank, I knew that as soon as I signed the order, its value would equate to years of hard work for others.
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