Surprise, surprise! A bunch of big shots from the company showed up at the project brainstorming meeting.

Jessica was there too, giving me the stink eye.

I glared right back. I wasn't leaving 'cause I was scared of her.

Once everyone was pretty much there, Noah strolled into the conference room.

He scanned the room, his eyes lingering on me for a sec.

It hit me that three years ago, I was sitting way in the back where he couldn't even see me.

Now, I'm right in his line of sight.

When it came time to discuss project groups, Jessica piped up, "I think some people aren't fit to be project leads anymore. Their personal behavior is dragging the company's reputation through the mud. I hope the higher-ups will consider my suggestion."

Everyone started whispering. They all knew who she meant by "some people."

Noah looked up at her. "You've already talked to me about this."

Jessica must've lost her marbles 'cause she pushed it: "Mr. Black, keeping someone like that will make clients think we're unprofessional and rely on shady tactics."

Noah nodded. "I agree with that statement. Our company's reputation in the industry is based on skill, not underhanded methods. So..."

Jessica looked at me all smug-like, waiting for Noah to fire me on the spot.

"You're fired!"

It hit her like a ton of bricks. Jessica's face turned green, and she looked at Noah in disbelief.

I was shocked too.

The whole room was buzzing.

Jessica whipped out her phone and put something on the screen. "Amy's being kept by someone. That's a fact!"

"Why am I the one getting fired?"

The executives looked at the photo, then at Noah. "Isn't that the new car you mentioned before the holiday?"

Noah nodded. "Took it for a spin at the airport that day. Not bad on power."

Jessica was dumbstruck. "Mr. Black, it's your car? You're keeping Amy!"

Noah answered slowly, "I'm not keeping her."

My heart went haywire. I was pinching my hands under the table so hard it hurt.

For a split second, I even felt a little let down.