Ava’s hands trembled as she slid her resignation letter across the HR desk.

“This is my formal notice,” she said, forcing calm into her voice. “Please process it immediately.”

The woman on the other side—nervous, polite—took the envelope with a tight smile. “Of course, Ms. Hayes. We’ll begin the paperwork right away.”

Relief flooded Ava’s chest. For the first time in weeks, she felt like she was reclaiming control.

Until two hours later.

Her office phone rang. She almost ...