Colleagues let out disappointed sighs, exchanging glances, ‘Not this again!’

Nina cleared her throat and continued, "Mrs. Blackwood, our boss's wife, had a difficult ten-month pregnancy. And when the baby was born, his cry was a bit softer than other babies. So to pray for blessings and good fortune for the child, Mrs. Blackwood has decided..."

She paused here, scanning everyone's expectant faces with a smile before continuing, "The company will be withholding last quarter's performance bonuses for all employees! And August's salary will be delayed until after the Labor Day holiday!"

After a moment of silence, the room erupted.

Colleagues surrounded Nina, protesting angrily.

"Mrs. Blackwood is staying at a luxury postpartum care center that costs over $30,000 a month, and everything else in her life is top-tier luxury! She's covered in designer brands, but to pray for her baby's blessings, she has to take our bonuses?"

"Our payday is already later than other companies, do they think we don't need money?"

"Exactly! I have a mortgage to pay, I really can't handle any delays!"

Nina looked around at everyone, maintaining her elegant composure. Her voice wasn't loud, but it instantly silenced the room.

"Mr. Blackwood and his wife also said that if anyone has objections, they don't need to come back after the holiday."

Everyone who had been protesting just moments ago suddenly deflated.

The job market's harsh reality was no secret to anyone.

Though many colleagues had secretly been sending out resumes to other companies, without solid offers in hand, they had to protect their current positions.

Even if this job had gone rotten and sour, most had no choice but to endure it.

After everyone left dejectedly, I stopped Nina.

"Nina, I understand Mr. and Mrs. Blackwood's decision. But honestly, my mom is sick, and I desperately need the money! Could you please talk to Mr. Blackwood about releasing at least my salary?"

Nina turned and gave me a quick look. Seeing my genuine desperation, she consoled me, "I'll speak to Mr. Blackwood about it. Don't worry, just head home for now."

Despite my burning anxiety, I had no choice but to follow her advice.

The Sunrise Company was a family business. The boss, Felix Blackwood, managed all company operations, while his wife Victoria maintained a quiet presence and rarely involved herself in business matters.