CHAPTER ONE HUNDRED AND SIXTY – YOU’RE FIRED!

Your tenure here at Storm Enterprises has taken a turn down an increasingly unacceptable path - one characterized by disruptions, insubordinate conduct, and a willful disregard for appropriate boundaries that cannot be tolerated, no matter the underlying motivation." Jessie seemed to shrink in on herself with each successive word blistering the air between them. Her eyes remained locked on Lance in abject pleading, silently begging him not to continue down this course. But the CEO pressed onwards, seemingly strengthened by Kayla's steadying grip on his hand. "You are a bright, talented young woman who had such potential here, Jessie. But that potential has been squandered through a pattern of distressing behavior that escalated far beyond the bounds of what any workplace can reasonably accommodate. I understand that your intentions may have started from a place of..." He paused, grimacing faintly. "...overzealous dedication to proving yourself a valued employee. But the reality is,