- 14 hours ago
Fired Up, Not Fired: From Employee to Empress EP Workplace Revenge, Strong Female Lead
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Short filmTranscript
00:00For five years, I secured $80 million orders for Azure Corp, but my salary is just $6,000.
00:07During the banquet, I merely told Ray I want a pay raise, but he tore me a new one in
00:11front of everyone.
00:12The client stayed because of Azure Corp. You're lucky you got $6,000. Be grateful.
00:16Everyone was ready to mock me. I said nothing and listened quietly.
00:20The next day, I switched to our competitor with all my clients.
00:24Three days later, Ray shouts in the phone.
00:27Why have all our clients pulled out?
00:28The banquet is lively. Ray speaks on stage with excitement.
00:33The $80 million order wouldn't be possible without all of you.
00:37That's why everyone is getting a higher bonus.
00:39Everyone's instantly thrilled. Lynn Zane is the first to scream.
00:43I just got the bonus. Thank you, Mr. Zane.
00:46Then, everyone cheers. All of them go along and celebrate the bonus, utterly overjoyed and screaming with joy.
00:54I checked my bank account, but there's nothing. It's the same every year. There's no transaction record.
01:01I'm upset. I joined Azure Corp after college for $6,000.
01:07Eight years later, my pay hasn't changed. I secured $80 million in orders in five years.
01:14Others get $50,000 bonuses. While I only get base pay. Ray calls out to me.
01:21Julie, got any New Year wishes?
01:23I must have looked upset and look out of place in the crowd.
01:26I respond, I want to pay, Ray's. I'm not loud.
01:29But everyone heard me. The whole place go quiet at once.
01:33All of them slowly turn around and look at me.
01:35Ray's smile also vanishes.
01:37He tosses the microphone aside, producing a piercing sound.
01:41He spits angrily.
01:42What'd you say? Say that again.
01:45I say, Mr. Zane, Ray's my pay. Eight years. Same pay.
01:49Now, new hires make more. But I brought in $80 million.
01:54I'm still talking when Ray suddenly slaps me.
01:57Before I can react, he slaps me two more times.
02:00Ray points at me and says,
02:02$80 million orders? The client stayed because of Azure Corp.
02:07You're lucky you got $6,000. Be grateful.
02:10I look up and see the angry look in Ray's eyes.
02:13I look past him and see my colleagues. None of them does anything.
02:17In the end, the hotel manager walks over.
02:20Mr., that's inappropriate.
02:22She looks at me and says softly,
02:24Miss, do you need our help?
02:25I shake my head and let the waiter take me to the lounge.
02:29I can still hear Ray's voice after the door closed.
02:32Call the police. See if I care.
02:34At the next moment, every sound is shut out.
02:36Gazing down, I look at my reflection in the phone.
02:39I look terrible.
02:41My hair has come loose at some point, like a madwoman.
02:44Then, someone enters the lounge.
02:46It's Mindy Lynch, a longtime staff.
02:48Today, she's already the deputy CEO.
02:51She sits next to me and says patiently,
02:53Julie, don't take it to heart.
02:55You just caught Ray on a bad day.
02:58I didn't move or look at her.
03:00I just stare at my phone and pull up the headhunter's text.
03:04I was offered a new opportunity, but I replied,
03:07not at the moment, thank you.
03:09But now, I reply differently.
03:11Let's talk.
03:12Mindy is still going on.
03:14As for this year's order, I'm aware of your contribution,
03:17and so is everyone else.
03:19But you have to see this.
03:21You couldn't have done it alone.
03:22Without Azure Corp's brand,
03:24the big clients would never have trusted a young woman like you.
03:28Your subordinates may not match your skills,
03:31but they contributed to Azure Corp in their own ways.
03:34You can't underplay their efforts.
03:36Mindy begins her manipulative talk again.
03:38You might not have the bonus, but it's a fair decision.
03:42You're still young.
03:43Look at the big picture.
03:44Next year, if you can keep up the good work,
03:46I'll personally fight for your bonus.
03:49Same old story for eight years.
03:52In Azure Corp's early days, I got no bonus.
03:55Mindy said, no orders, no bonus.
03:58Get results next year.
03:59I did what she wanted, but I still got nothing.
04:02Your qualifications are poor.
04:04Next year, I'll give you the bonus.
04:06I waited for years.
04:08My salary's the same, no bonuses, and I got slapped.
04:12Now, Mindy tells me to wait another year.
04:14I can't help but smile bitterly.
04:15I worked diligently for eight years,
04:18and I was taken for granted.
04:19Mindy sighs when she sees I don't react.
04:21Julie, be practical.
04:23Graduates from top colleges are everywhere.
04:26The job market is harsh.
04:28It's hard to get jobs.
04:29Your salary is quite decent.
04:31Just think it over.
04:32After Mindy leaves, my phone buzzes.
04:35It's the headhunter.
04:36Ms. Lane, you finally changed your mind.
04:39Can we talk on the phone?
04:40He's thrilled and passionate.
04:42I was never this respected in Azure Corp.
04:44The talk goes well, and his offer is very generous.
04:47If I join them, my salary is $60,000.
04:50With year-end bonuses and stock incentives,
04:52I can get what Azure Corp failed to give me
04:55in the past eight years.
04:56It's written in contract.
04:57I lower my phone and look at my cheek in the mirror.
05:00My time at Azure Corp has come to an end.
05:03The next day, I reach Azure Corp punctually to resign.
05:06My cheek is still slightly swollen,
05:08and there's red scab at my lips.
05:10When I walk in, the office immediately go quiet.
05:14My colleagues shoot me looks, openly mocking,
05:17curious, and gleeful.
05:19Lynn deliberately walks past me and speaks loud enough
05:22so everyone can hear her.
05:24Gee, you really showed up.
05:26I thought you'd need a break after yesterday.
05:29I ignore her and go to my workstation.
05:31A lot of unread mails pop up on my screen.
05:34The work group chat is flooding with last night's pictures.
05:37I ignore it and make a new file titled Resignation Letter.
05:41It's blunt and indifferent.
05:43No gratitude.
05:44No reflection.
05:45Just a simple, I resign immediately for personal reason.
05:48Then, I access an encrypted folder in my computer
05:51and open a document that has 80 pages.
05:55It's the core client handbook.
05:57It contains every information I learned in the past eight years
06:01at the cost of my health.
06:03It's not just contacts and contracts.
06:06It's also rivalries, family details,
06:09and what makes them give in in the end.
06:11These details are how I close deals
06:14and make the collabs last.
06:16It's not company data.
06:18It's my years of work.
06:19I calmly encrypt and upload it to a private cloud.
06:22The rest of my data isn't important.
06:24After that, I rise,
06:26print my resignation letter,
06:27and sign it.
06:28I walk to Mr. Zane's office,
06:30knock, and enter.
06:31Ray is on the phone.
06:33When he sees me,
06:34his eyes are full of disgust.
06:36He ends the call shortly,
06:37leans into his chair,
06:38and sizes me up.
06:39Here to apologize?
06:40Last night, you wanted to call the...
06:42I interrupt him and show him my resignation letter.
06:45Ray gazes at it,
06:46his smile freezing.
06:47He slowly lights a cigarette and asks,
06:49Julie, I know I was harsh,
06:51but I had to give you a reality check,
06:53so you know your place.
06:54I respond calmly.
06:55I'm not here to argue.
06:57Approve my resignation.
06:58Ray exhales a smoke ring and flicks the ash.
07:01What?
07:01You're required to give me a 30 days notice.
07:04Don't even think about slacking off.
07:06I won't let you leave.
07:07Just like that.
07:08It's clear Ray wants to make my life hard during this time.
07:11That's when the phone on his desk rings.
07:14Ray picks up the phone.
07:15What is it?
07:16The system crashed?
07:17The data are gone?
07:18Mr. Wagner wants Julie to handle it?
07:20You all are useless.
07:22He slams the phone,
07:23visibly flustered.
07:24He glares at me with mixed emotions,
07:26anger, reluctance,
07:27and the touch of embarrassment.
07:29Ray speaks through clenched teeth.
07:31Axion Tech's system is down.
07:33Their CEO, Ben,
07:34said he wants you on it.
07:35You still work for Azure Corp.
07:37So put out the fire.
07:38Mess this up,
07:39and you'll bear the consequences.
07:41I look at Ray's enraged face.
07:43How absurd.
07:44He needs me to save the company,
07:46but fails to reward me.
07:47I say, sure,
07:48but this is my last duty in the company.
07:50He knows what I'm saying.
07:52He'll have to approve my resignation
07:53if he wants me to settle it.
07:55Ray grits his teeth and agrees.
07:57Fine.
07:58Julie, you got me.
07:59Upon hearing that,
08:00I go to the tech department.
08:01Axion Tech has run into a nasty core code bug.
08:05Technicians are stumped.
08:06When they see me,
08:07they feel hopeful yet uneasy.
08:09I ignore them.
08:10Sit down and log in.
08:12Memories about Axion Tech's custom request
08:14during every system upgrade rush out.
08:17An hour later,
08:18the data are restored.
08:19Ben Wagner calls me directly.
08:22Julie,
08:22you're the only one I can count on.
08:24He says happily.
08:25Then,
08:26he adds softly,
08:26I heard about how Ray slapped you yesterday.
08:29What a scumbag.
08:30Anyway,
08:31my friends and I only want to collaborate with you,
08:34wherever you work.
08:35Also,
08:36I can always use someone like you.
08:38I say from my heart,
08:40thank you.
08:40My years of effort
08:41have won the approval
08:42of those who truly know their stuff.
08:44I return to Ray's office.
08:46He looks angry listening to the report.
08:48The issue solved,
08:49but he's still stressed.
08:50I give him my resignation letter.
08:52Mr. Zane,
08:53your approval.
08:53Ray gazes at the letter and looks at me.
08:55Julie,
08:56you know that you secured this order
08:58because of the company.
08:59If you leave,
08:59you won't amount to anything.
09:01I say bluntly,
09:02just get to it.
09:03After the earlier issue,
09:05Ray may have realized he needs me.
09:07Ray studies my expression.
09:08You want a pay raise?
09:09Fine.
09:10I'll bump your pay by $500.
09:12He sticks five fingers out
09:13as if he's done me a huge favor.
09:15$500?
09:16I sneer and say,
09:18sign it.
09:18Don't waste my time.
09:19No one has ever talked to him this way.
09:21He is beyond enraged.
09:23In the end,
09:24he signs my resignation letter
09:25and tosses it back to me.
09:26His tone is laced with anger.
09:28Julie,
09:29never forget this.
09:30You're nothing without Azure Court.
09:32You'll have to beg for your old job back.
09:34I ignore him and tuck my letter away.
09:36In the afternoon,
09:37I report at my new workplace.
09:38I work as a project director
09:40earning $60,000.
09:41My office has a scenic view.
09:43I take a picture of my work ID
09:45and the view
09:45and upload it.
09:46The caption reads,
09:48to a new beginning.
09:49Many people like and comment on my post.
09:51Aside from my new colleagues,
09:52most of my old clients also commented.
09:54Ben writes,
09:55congrats.
09:56This time it'll be better.
09:57Keep it up, partner.
09:58Jane writes,
10:00Julie,
10:00you're the best.
10:01We're signing a new contract with you.
10:03Hank writes,
10:04Ms. Lane,
10:05let's meet up and talk about
10:06next year's collaboration.
10:08Each comment arrives like a wordless statement.
10:10I'm about to lower my phone
10:11when I receive a call from a familiar number.
10:14My phone buzzes.
10:15It's Ray.
10:16He screams into the phone.
10:18Julie,
10:18what did you do?
10:19Why?
10:20Why did they all pull out?
10:21Julie,
10:22what the fuck did you do?
10:23Why are Axion Tech,
10:25Coral Tech,
10:25and Virex Tech pulling out?
10:26Is it your doing?
10:27I calmly pull away from the phone
10:29and don't speak until Ray stops shouting.
10:31Mr. Zane,
10:32I don't work there anymore.
10:34The clients have their own minds.
10:36Do you think they're that naive and gullible?
10:38Ray's breathing is ragged.
10:40Ray softens,
10:41sobbing.
10:42Julie,
10:42I'm sorry.
10:43I was wrong.
10:44I let the moment go to my head.
10:45Just come back.
10:46I'll raise your pay.
10:47No,
10:48I'll double it.
10:48$12,000.
10:50And the bonus as well.
10:51$20,000.
10:52No,
10:52$30,000.
10:53I interrupt him.
10:54Mr. Zane,
10:55remember what you said when you slapped me?
10:57The clients recognize the company,
10:59not me.
11:00A $6,000 salary is what I deserve.
11:03Now,
11:03I want you to listen to me.
11:04I speak coldly,
11:05enunciating each word.
11:06The company recognizes the clients.
11:08When you belittle the one staff who's supporting you,
11:11you should have seen this coming.
11:12No one will stain your company forever.
11:14Goodbye,
11:15Mr. Zane.
11:16Enjoy the liquidation.
11:17Then,
11:18I end the call and block Ray's number.
11:20I didn't hesitate at all.
11:21As if I'm throwing away a piece of rag.
11:24The next three days were hell for Ray and Azure Core.
11:27The first day,
11:28eight core clients canceled their contracts.
11:30The next day,
11:31up to 23 clients did the same.
11:33The third day,
11:34Axion Tech,
11:34Azure Core's biggest client,
11:36also cancels.
11:37Ben personally gives Ray a call.
11:39Due to changes in your company's core staff,
11:41I'm going to terminate our contract.
11:43Thanks for your past support.
11:44The core client base I built over five years has been lost,
11:48accounting for 85% of revenue.
11:50The cash flow has collapsed.
11:51The celebratory mood in the office is gone.
11:54In its place,
11:55a heavy silence and rising panic.
11:57Ray locks himself in his office,
11:58smashing stuff and letting out angry roars.
12:01Lynn leads some of Ray's trusted staff to convince the clients to stay,
12:04but their calls are dropped.
12:06Those who answer asks,
12:07how well do you know our business?
12:09What's the real cause of the last issue?
12:11They can't answer it.
12:12Then,
12:13they realize that for years,
12:14they wouldn't have such amazing performances
12:16without the foundation I lay down.
12:19They merely lived off my labor.
12:21Without me,
12:22they don't know anything about our clients.
12:23In Azure Corp,
12:25things fall apart.
12:26The capable staff start looking for other jobs,
12:28while the incompetent ones pin it on me,
12:30accusing me of stealing the clients.
12:32Diana from Finance came to me in tears.
12:35Please refer me to your company.
12:36I give her the HR manager's email and say,
12:40Azure Corp doesn't deserve you.
12:41You deserve a better company.
12:43On the fourth day,
12:44in Nimbus Tech's conference room,
12:46I sit at the long table.
12:47A project proposal lies open in front of me.
12:50Aside from my new colleagues,
12:51some old friends are here too,
12:53including Ben,
12:54Jane,
12:54and Hank.
12:55Ben raises his wine glass.
12:57Julie.
12:57I mean,
12:58Ms. Lane.
12:59We discussed it.
13:00We enjoyed working with you.
13:02Now you're at Nimbus Tech,
13:03we intend to transfer the original orders here.
13:06We'll each lead two partner companies
13:08and lock in next year's collab with Nimbus.
13:10Jane chimes in decisively.
13:12Julie.
13:13Let's make this clear.
13:14We trust you as a person,
13:15not the companies.
13:16You're professional and reliable,
13:18and you care about us.
13:20Ray might not get you,
13:21but we do.
13:22We have faith in you.
13:23As I gaze at my old friends,
13:24I feel warmth rising within my chest,
13:27chasing away the bitterness of betrayal.
13:29I raise my cup.
13:30Thank you for your support, everyone.
13:32Nimbus Tech won't let you down.
13:33Here,
13:34those who drive results
13:35will receive the respect and reward.
13:37I assure you,
13:38this is real.
13:39My employment contract includes
13:41the profit sharing clause
13:42and an incentive plan.
13:44The CEO,
13:45Kent Carter,
13:45tells me,
13:46Julie,
13:46we want your capability and resources.
13:49We pay you what you're worth.
13:50We don't do empty promises or manipulations.
13:53We share the success.
13:55That's when I know
13:55I came to the right place.
13:57Later,
13:58word gets out that Azure Corp delays salaries.
14:01Staff huddle outside Ray's office
14:02demanding their salaries.
14:04Ray sells his car and assets
14:06to cover the salaries,
14:07but he can't pay the bonuses
14:08and compensations.
14:09The once bustling company
14:11is now a mess.
14:12Plants have wilted.
14:14Office equipment are taken away.
14:16The motivational quotes
14:17on the wall hang crooked.
14:18Lynn tries searching for jobs,
14:19but the entire industry knows
14:21how Azure Corp's core team resigned
14:23after the CEO reamed them out
14:25and the clients left.
14:27These issues are why she fails each interview.
14:29In the end,
14:30she works as an admin
14:31in a company her relative runs.
14:32With a $3,000 salary,
14:34she became humble.
14:35Ray tries to secure financing,
14:37even taking out loans.
14:39None of it works.
14:40One gloomy, rainy afternoon,
14:41he signed on liquidation papers.
14:43Azure Corp has gone bankrupt.
14:45His properties and cars are auctioned off,
14:47and he's stuck with a crushing debt.
14:49I hear someone saw him
14:50in a 24-hour fast food joint
14:52in the countryside,
14:53wearing an old suit.
14:55His hair is mostly gray,
14:56and bending down,
14:57he cleans the table.
14:58Some regulars recognize him
15:00and talk about him.
15:01He merely keeps his head lowered
15:02and dash into the kitchen
15:03after he's done.
15:04Half year passes by.
15:06Nimbus Tech develops rapidly.
15:08We take over Azure Corp's clients
15:09and attract new clients
15:10due to better terms
15:11and my professional reputation.
15:13The company has doubled in size.
15:15We move into a bigger office building.
15:17I'm promoted to deputy GM,
15:18overseeing the core business.
15:20During the party,
15:21Kent gives me a share transfer agreement.
15:23Ms. Lane, you earned this.
15:24The company's profit has grown threefold.
15:27The shares are yours.
15:28We agreed on we'd share the success.
15:30Here you go.
15:31Everyone applause.
15:32My team members compose
15:34of who came from Azure Corp
15:35and those I recruited at Nimbus Tech.
15:37They're genuinely happy and proud.
15:39Scheming and bootlicking
15:40have no place here.
15:41Clear metrics.
15:42Clear rewards.
15:44Only the capable can rise here.
15:46It's simple and fair.
15:47People can focus on driving results.
15:49During the banquet,
15:50I went to the balcony.
15:51It's a perfect night.
15:52The city glowing softly.
15:54My phone buzzes.
15:55It's a long, elaborate text from Mindy.
15:57She said she also left Azure Corp
15:59for another company,
15:59but something felt off.
16:01She apologized for manipulating me.
16:03She finally understood.
16:05Exploiting the dedicated staff
16:06will just undermine the whole team.
16:07She wished me success.
16:09I don't reply to Mindy.
16:10Sometimes,
16:11an apology cannot undo the damage.
16:13Sometimes,
16:14there's no turning back.
16:15I no longer resent her.
16:16Mindy's just a product
16:17of that toxic place.
16:19She's not worth the time.
16:20Months later,
16:21at Nimbus Tech's annual event,
16:22I represent the company
16:23and spoke on our new vision and plans.
16:25When it's over,
16:26a Q&A session follows.
16:28A reporter asks,
16:29Ms. Lane,
16:30everyone knows you took
16:31Azure Corp's clients with you.
16:33What's your view
16:33on poaching your old company?
16:35Does this count
16:36as an unethical competition?
16:37The venue goes quiet.
16:39Everyone stares at me intensely.
16:40I pick up the microphone
16:41and say calmly,
16:42first,
16:43let me make this clear.
16:44I didn't poach Azure Corp.
16:46Eight years there.
16:47No pay raise.
16:48No bonuses.
16:49I was humiliated
16:50when I asked for a raise.
16:51So I resigned by the book.
16:53Secondly,
16:54the clients chose to leave
16:55due to the service I provide them
16:57and their confidence in me.
16:58They leave
16:58because there's a better,
17:00safer choice.
17:00That's normal.
17:01Clients choose
17:02what works best for them.
17:03Lastly,
17:04I'd like to talk about
17:05my take on companies
17:06and employees.
17:07I look around,
17:08my voice crisp and firm.
17:10Many leaders believe
17:11an employee is nothing
17:12without the company,
17:13that they forgot
17:14that a company is built
17:15and sustained
17:16by each and every employee.
17:18Respecting them,
17:19especially those
17:20who bring results,
17:21isn't a favor,
17:22but essential
17:23to survival and growth.
17:25I say confidently,
17:26belittling employees,
17:28stealing the credit
17:28and exploiting people
17:29are all recipes
17:30for disaster.
17:31Nimbus Tech believes
17:32that the best company
17:33is a place
17:34where everyone can shine
17:35and share in the success.
17:37We didn't poach anyone.
17:38What we have
17:39is a team willing
17:40to contribute
17:40to the company.
17:42At the next moment,
17:43I'm greeted with applauses.
17:45My clients' representatives
17:46are clapping,
17:47Kent's nodding
17:48with a smile,
17:49while my team members
17:50are standing up,
17:51misty-eyed.
17:52I know I mean
17:53every word I uttered.
17:54After the event,
17:55I received a text
17:56from an unknown number.
17:57It's just an image.
17:59In it,
18:00Ray's wearing
18:00a greasy uniform,
18:02his hair a mess.
18:03He's staring vacantly
18:04at the distant neon lights,
18:06looking weary
18:07and withered
18:08underneath a dim light.
18:09I see a street-facing
18:10LED screen,
18:11playing news clip
18:12from Nimbus' launch event
18:14in the background.
18:15My face is visible
18:16on it, too.
18:16It's an anonymous text,
18:18but maybe someone's
18:19still bitter about Azure Corp
18:21or enjoys making fun of Ray.
18:22I stare at it for a while.
18:24I don't feel pleasure
18:26or sympathy,
18:27just an indifferent calmness.
18:29Ray used to give me
18:30so much pressure,
18:31but he's already become
18:32insignificant now.
18:34Meanwhile,
18:34I've climbed higher
18:35than he ever could.
18:36I delete the text
18:37and block the unknown number, too.
18:39Some images
18:40aren't worth saving,
18:41and some people
18:42aren't worth remembering.
18:44At the year-end company gala,
18:45I'm chosen as
18:46the employee of the year.
18:47The award praised
18:48my outstanding performance,
18:50professionalism,
18:51and amazing leadership,
18:53driving growth
18:54and setting the bar
18:55for delivering results.
18:57Bonus is generous.
18:58Incentives are higher,
18:59but I care more
19:01about the unchecked excitement
19:02in the eyes
19:03of my team members.
19:04It's a feeling
19:05of being valued
19:06and appreciated
19:07for their work.
19:08What I once lacked,
19:09I now give to them.
19:11Later,
19:11Kent pulls me over
19:12and makes an announcement.
19:13Next year,
19:14Ms. Lane will lead
19:15the new sales division,
19:16focusing on high-end
19:17customized services
19:19with full company support.
19:21Kent adds,
19:22Also,
19:22we're launching
19:23Project Starlight
19:24to build up more
19:25core staff like Ms. Lane
19:26and share in the growth.
19:27Everyone's thrilled.
19:28I know this project
19:29isn't only for me.
19:31It's also a message
19:32and a promise.
19:33At Nimbus Tech,
19:34if you're capable
19:35and diligent,
19:35you can build your future
19:37and find where you belong.
19:38At night,
19:39everyone's left.
19:40I walk toward
19:40the floor-to-ceiling window.
19:42Outside,
19:43the city still glows brightly.
19:44My reflection in the mirror
19:45shows a sharp suit,
19:47neat short hair,
19:48and a calm,
19:49confident gaze.
19:50The wound on my lips
19:51is gone.
19:52I think about
19:52how I wiped blood
19:54from my lips
19:54at the banquet a year ago.
19:56I think about
19:56how I was slapped
19:57and what Ray said to me.
19:59I think about the way
20:00my former colleagues
20:01look at me.
20:01Everything seems so distant
20:03yet so vivid.
20:04The agony and humiliation
20:06gives me a rough awakening
20:07and forces me to leave.
20:09My phone buzzes.
20:10It's a text from Mom.
20:11Sweetheart,
20:12I saw the news.
20:13You're amazing.
20:14Take care of yourself.
20:15We're proud of you.
20:16The simple text
20:17brings tears to my eyes.
20:19I take a deep breath
20:19and reply,
20:21Don't worry, Mom.
20:22I've never felt better.
20:23I lower my phone
20:25and look out the window again.
20:26I'm aware that my time
20:28has just started
20:28and I won't be doing this alone.
20:31More people who believe
20:32and respect creating values
20:34will be there with me.
20:35Don't worry, Mom.
20:36I've never felt better.
20:38As I send my text,
20:40I hear footsteps behind me.
20:41Turning around,
20:42I see Kent holding
20:43two glasses of warm water.
20:45He hands me one of them
20:46and gazes out the window.
20:48Still awake?
20:49I take the glass,
20:50feeling warmth in my fingers.
20:51Planning the new division,
20:53Kent's tone is casual,
20:54but he sounds very serious.
20:56The HR department
20:57has given me names
20:58for Project Starlight.
20:59I've sorted through them.
21:00Three of them
21:01are former Azure Corp staff
21:02and five of them
21:03are outstanding newcomers.
21:05I freeze before realizing it.
21:07It's Linda.
21:08When I resigned,
21:09they privately texted me
21:10messages of support.
21:12Later, they also resigned.
21:14I say,
21:15they're worth it.
21:16Nimbus Tech won't lower
21:17its standards
21:17for personal feelings.
21:19Kent grins.
21:20Their performances
21:21and client feedback
21:22are excellent.
21:23We fell silent for a minute.
21:25Then he says,
21:26I receive news about Ray.
21:28I freeze slightly
21:29and say nothing.
21:30Kent continues indifferently.
21:31He couldn't pay his debts
21:32and the debtors found him.
21:34It was a huge mess.
21:36The restaurant owner
21:37had to fire him
21:37and pay them a little.
21:39I quietly finish my water,
21:40peace slowly settling in.
21:42I respond,
21:43not my business.
21:44Kent nods
21:45and drops the topic.
21:46The new sales division's
21:47launch meeting
21:47and Project Starlight's
21:49signing are at 9 a.m.
21:50I say,
21:51I'll be there on time.
21:52After Kent left,
21:53I stand there for a long time,
21:55not feeling any joy
21:56or regret.
21:57Everyone bears the cost
21:59of their choices.
22:00Ray chose arrogance
22:01and exploitation.
22:02And this is what happens.
22:04I chose to leave and fight.
22:05And I got what I want.
22:07The next morning,
22:07I arrived half an hour earlier.
22:09The conference room is ready.
22:11Name cards,
22:12Project Starlight contracts,
22:13and a screen looping
22:15Nimbus Tech's history.
22:16By 8.50 a.m.,
22:17everyone is here.
22:19Linda and the others
22:20from Azure Corp
22:21sit together in sharp suits.
22:22Looking tense,
22:24but excited.
22:25The young newcomers
22:26are restrained,
22:27yet clearly hopeful.
22:28At 9 a.m.,
22:29Kent enters the conference room
22:31and the meeting starts.
22:32He sweeps his eyes
22:33across the seats.
22:35Today's a big day for us.
22:37We're commencing
22:37the high-end service
22:38and witness
22:39the core staff's growth.
22:41He gestures at me.
22:42Ms. Lane,
22:43as the new division's head,
22:44walk us through the plan.
22:45I stand up
22:46and take the microphone.
22:47This customized service
22:49is about accuracy
22:50and exclusivity.
22:51We'll form three dedicated teams
22:53for finance,
22:54healthcare,
22:54and smart manufacturing.
22:56Every team will provide
22:57technical and customer support,
22:59ensuring a seamless delivery
23:00every step of the way.
23:02Project Starlight members
23:03will join as core staff
23:04with training
23:05and profit sharing.
23:06The next moment,
23:08everyone in the room
23:09applauds.
23:10Linda and the others
23:11clap hard,
23:11tears in their eyes.
23:13When it's time,
23:14they step forward
23:15and sign the contract.
23:16When it's Lynn's turn,
23:18her hands are trembling.
23:20She looks up at me gratefully
23:21and says,
23:23Ms. Lane,
23:23thank you.
23:24I respond in a smile.
23:26Thank yourself.
23:27Your determination
23:27brought you here.
23:29When it's over,
23:29I made Lynn
23:30and two former colleagues
23:31stay.
23:32I opened a file
23:33and say,
23:33Mr. Wagner has confirmed
23:35the first finance deal.
23:36Next Monday,
23:37we'll meet with him.
23:38Also,
23:39Ms. Lambert recommended
23:40a top-tier
23:40smart medical project.
23:42In smart manufacturing,
23:43Mr. Vance has two
23:44smart production lines
23:45that need upgrading.
23:46These are our first orders.
23:48Everything must go smoothly.
23:49They jot down what I say,
23:51nodding firmly.
23:52Linda says hesitantly,
23:54Ms. Lane,
23:55some old colleagues
23:55also wants to work here.
23:57While they've never
23:57stood up for you,
23:58they didn't boycott you either.
23:59I ponder for a second.
24:01Let them follow the procedures.
24:02Nimbus Tech welcomes
24:04the capable people,
24:04but we don't do
24:05old boys specials.
24:07I say,
24:08all I care is what
24:09they have to offer
24:10to Nimbus Tech.
24:11Linda nods.
24:12Understood.
24:13For the next month,
24:14the new division
24:15is swamped.
24:16I meet the clients
24:16with my team,
24:17work through the nights,
24:18and solve issues.
24:20It's difficult,
24:20but everyone's spirited.
24:22After all,
24:23hard work is recognized
24:24and rewarded here.
24:25One afternoon,
24:26I'm discussing
24:26Axion Tech's project
24:28when someone
24:28knocks on the door.
24:29Ruby Stiller,
24:30the HR manager,
24:31walks in looking
24:32a little uneasy.
24:34Ms. Lane,
24:34someone called Mindy
24:36is looking for you,
24:37says it's urgent.
24:38Mindy,
24:39it takes me a second
24:39to remember.
24:40It's the old
24:41deputy CEO.
24:42I lower my documents
24:43and say,
24:44let her in.
24:45Mindy walks into
24:46my office shortly.
24:47She looks much
24:47more miserable.
24:48Her hair is gray,
24:49and she's wearing
24:50a worn-out jacket.
24:51She's nothing
24:52like her old self.
24:53Her voice is
24:54a little hoarse.
24:55Julie,
24:55it's been a while.
24:56I point at the chair
24:57across the table.
24:58She says,
24:59I appreciate this.
25:00After she sat,
25:01she clasps
25:01her fingers nervously.
25:03I ask directly,
25:04what do you want?
25:05Mindy looks up,
25:06eyes pleading.
25:07I need a job.
25:08After Azure Corp,
25:09I searched for jobs.
25:11No one wants me.
25:12They said,
25:12I helped Ray
25:13exploit employees.
25:14I'm a bad person.
25:15I know what I did
25:16is wrong,
25:16and you don't
25:17have to help me.
25:18But my husband
25:18is bedridden,
25:19and my kid
25:20is studying.
25:21I'm desperate.
25:22Mindy pulls out
25:23medical bills
25:23and medical reports
25:25from her purse.
25:26Julie,
25:26you're a kind person.
25:27Take pity on me
25:28and give me a chance.
25:29I look at the papers,
25:30then at her wrinkled face,
25:32feeling a mix
25:33of emotions.
25:33Her manipulation
25:34did hurt me,
25:35but I still feel
25:36a little sorry for her.
25:37I speak slowly.
25:38We have proper
25:40hiring procedures here.
25:41I can't just
25:41give you a job.
25:43Mindy's gaze
25:43immediately drops,
25:44a bitter smile forming.
25:46Then,
25:46I add,
25:47that said,
25:48the new division
25:48needs a customer
25:49records admin,
25:50organizing and
25:51maintaining client data.
25:52We need someone
25:53meticulous,
25:54patient,
25:54and has knowledge
25:55on the position.
25:56If you want it,
25:57you can apply for it.
25:58I'll talk to the HR manager
25:59and get you a chance
26:00to compete for it.
26:01But it depends on you.
26:03If you will get the job,
26:04not me.
26:05Mindy looks up,
26:06hope in her eyes.
26:08Thank you,
26:08Julie.
26:09I swear I'll do my best.
26:10I won't stir up any trouble.
26:12She stands up
26:13and bows at me.
26:14I respond calmly.
26:15You're welcome.
26:16I merely gave you a chance.
26:18It's up to you now.
26:19After Mindy left,
26:20I give Ruby a call
26:21and tell her about this.
26:22I didn't condemn Mindy
26:23because of the past,
26:24nor did I break the rules
26:26out of sympathy.
26:27Perhaps this
26:28the fairest approach.
26:29A week later,
26:30Ruby tells me
26:30Mindy passed the interview
26:32and will work
26:32as customer records admin.
26:34Ruby adds,
26:35She was sincere
26:36during the interview.
26:37She had her own take
26:38on the position
26:39and she's very humble
26:40with none of her old attitudes.
26:42I nod and say,
26:43that's great.
26:44In the days ahead,
26:45I'd run into Mindy at times.
26:47Mindy is always modest
26:49and diligent,
26:49greeting every colleague.
26:51Very different
26:52from the haughty woman
26:52I once knew.
26:53Once,
26:54I walk past her workstation
26:55and see her verifying
26:56a client's file.
26:57Her notebook
26:58is packed with remarks.
26:59She stands up
27:00when she sees me
27:01and greets me.
27:02I ask,
27:03Are you doing well?
27:04Mindy responds shyly,
27:05Quite well.
27:06The people here are nice.
27:07I appreciate this job
27:09I got with your help.
27:10I say,
27:11Keep it up.
27:11Brief and to the point.
27:12I turn and leave.
27:14As I look back,
27:15I suddenly realize
27:16people only understand
27:17themselves better
27:18after certain experiences.
27:19That applies
27:20to the both of us.
27:21Three months later,
27:22the first batch of projects
27:23launch smoothly.
27:24Axion Tech's finance system
27:25runs smoothly
27:26after going live,
27:27improving efficiency
27:28by 30%.
27:29The top-tier
27:30smart healthcare project
27:31receive high praise
27:33and local media coverage.
27:34The two smart manufacturing
27:35line upgrades
27:36cut client costs substantially,
27:38and they offer
27:39a long-term collaboration
27:40with Nimbus Tech.
27:41The new division
27:42keeps doing better,
27:43becoming Nimbus Tech's
27:44new growth driver.
27:46Kent commended my team again
27:47at a company event.
27:48Ms. Lane and her team
27:49created a miracle
27:50in three months.
27:52They proved with results
27:53that Project Starlight
27:54is a success,
27:55and our talent strategy
27:56is right.
27:57Everyone applauds,
27:58and my team members
27:59wear proud smiles
28:00on their faces.
28:01After the event,
28:03Ben, Jane, and Hank
28:04stay back to celebrate
28:05with us
28:05in an elegant restaurant.
28:07Laughter's fill the room.
28:08Ben raises his wine glass.
28:10Ms. Lane,
28:10you've really stepped up.
28:12I was right about you.
28:13Jane smiles and says,
28:15I knew I can rely on you.
28:16We've given you
28:17every resources we have.
28:19Hank chimes in.
28:20We'll count on you
28:21going forward.
28:22I raise my glass.
28:23You're too kind.
28:24We achieved this together.
28:26Without your trust and support,
28:27we wouldn't have come this far.
28:29After some drinks,
28:30Ben suddenly says,
28:31Anyway, Ms. Lane,
28:32something happened to Ray.
28:33I freeze mid-toast
28:35and fall silent.
28:36Ben continues,
28:37Ray's debt is too huge,
28:39and he's sued.
28:40He's now blacklisted
28:41in the system,
28:41losing many basic privileges.
28:43He can only work
28:44local odd jobs.
28:45Jane purses her lips.
28:46He had it coming
28:47for treating her that way.
28:49What a fool.
28:50Hank waves.
28:50Talking about him
28:51ruins the mood.
28:52Let's focus on collaborations instead.
28:54The talk shifts back to business,
28:56and the room becomes lively again.
28:57I savor the red wine in my hand,
28:59feeling indifferent.
29:01Ray chose to walk down this path.
29:03Meanwhile,
29:04I'm already moving
29:05towards something greater.
29:06After the celebration ends,
29:08Linda drives me home.
29:09She suddenly asks,
29:11Ms. Lane,
29:11I heard Mindy
29:12has been doing well.
29:13Ruby says,
29:14her client records
29:15are the most detailed
29:16and accurate.
29:17Moreover,
29:17she even offers
29:18to help other colleagues.
29:20Everyone speaks highly of her.
29:22I'm surprised.
29:23Really?
29:23Linda nods.
29:24Yeah,
29:25she even told me
29:26how grateful she was to you.
29:28Linda adds,
29:29Mindy said she went astray
29:31under Ray,
29:31only looking out
29:32for power and profit.
29:34Now she realizes
29:34that doing honest work
29:36with real skills
29:37is what matters.
29:38I grin,
29:38but say nothing.
29:39Everyone has their own lives.
29:41Mindy has the universe
29:42to thank for this opportunity.
29:43The car stops at the entrance.
29:45Before I get out,
29:46Linda says,
29:47Ms. Lane,
29:47I've been meaning to ask,
29:49back then,
29:49when Ray treated you that way,
29:51why didn't you hate the clients?
29:53They knew you were mistreated,
29:54but none of them stood up for you.
29:56I fall silent,
29:57then slowly say,
29:58we have professional relationships.
30:00They recognized me
30:01and chose to work with me.
30:02That's enough.
30:03I can't ask them
30:04to stand up for me,
30:05let alone hate them.
30:07Plus,
30:07they chose to bring their business
30:08to Nimbus Corp
30:09because of me.
30:10That's a great recognition.
30:11Don't be too greedy
30:13and don't hold grudges.
30:14Forgiveness sets you free as well.
30:16Linda nods hesitantly.
30:18Ms. Lane,
30:19you're really wise.
30:20I grin and open the door.
30:21You'll get it with time.
30:23Get some rest.
30:25After I wash up,
30:26I go to the bed,
30:27but I can't sleep.
30:29I look at the old pictures
30:30mom sent me.
30:31Mom and dad are standing
30:32behind a flower bed,
30:33smiling brightly.
30:34I send mom a text.
30:36Mom,
30:37I'll be coming home
30:38after a while.
30:39She replies,
30:40great,
30:40we'll be waiting.
30:41You don't have to bring us gifts.
30:43Just come home.
30:44Reading mom's text
30:45fills my heart with warmth.
30:47Loving parents,
30:48a successful career,
30:49and reliable team members.
30:50My life is complete.
30:52In six months,
30:53Nimbus Tech
30:53grows even larger.
30:55The new division
30:55expands steadily.
30:57Project Starlight
30:58produces more talents.
30:59Mindy's outstanding performance
31:01earns her a promotion
31:02to team leader
31:02with three subordinates.
31:04She says to me sincerely,
31:05Ms. Lane,
31:06thank you.
31:07I have no idea
31:08where I'd be now
31:08if you hadn't given me a chance.
31:10I can pay my husband's
31:11medical fees
31:12and my kids' tuition fees.
31:14This job gave me
31:15more than a living.
31:16It also gave me back
31:17my dignity.
31:18I smile and say,
31:20don't thank me.
31:20It's all your own effort.
31:22Keep it up.
31:23It'll only get better.
31:24Mindy nods firmly,
31:26fully resolved.
31:27One day,
31:27I suddenly receive a call
31:29from an unknown number.
31:30I hesitate,
31:31then answer it.
31:32A stranger's voice
31:33comes over the phone.
31:34Hello?
31:34Is this Ms. Julie Lane?
31:36I respond,
31:37who are you?
31:38He says,
31:39I'm from the Chamber of Commerce.
31:40We're holding an industry summit.
31:42We'd like you
31:42as the keynote speaker
31:44to share your experience
31:45and insight.
31:46I'm stunned.
31:47My experience?
31:48He says,
31:49yes.
31:49You left Azure Corp,
31:51taking the core clients
31:52to Nimbus Tech.
31:53In just a year,
31:53you achieved
31:54outstanding results.
31:56Your journey
31:56has become an industry story,
31:58garnering wide respect.
31:59We hope you can share
32:01how you overcame adversity
32:02and led your team
32:03to success.
32:04I ponder for a while
32:05before agreeing.
32:06Okay, I'll go.
32:07I hang up
32:08and look out the window,
32:09feeling sentimental.
32:11A year ago,
32:12I was humiliated
32:13at Azure Corp's event
32:14and couldn't get a pay raise.
32:15Now,
32:16I became the industry's role model,
32:18invited to share my experiences.
32:19Life truly is
32:21full of surprises.
32:22At the industry summit,
32:23the hall is packed.
32:24Entrepreneurs and elites
32:25fill the seats.
32:26When I walk to the stage
32:27and grab the microphone,
32:28I don't feel nervous at all,
32:30only calm and composure.
32:32Hi, everyone.
32:32I'm Julie from Nimbus Tech.
32:34Today,
32:34I won't talk about
32:35management theories
32:36or shortcuts to success.
32:38Instead,
32:38I want to share a story
32:39about self-worth
32:40and respect.
32:41It starts with my eight years
32:42at Azure Corp.
32:43The $80 million contract,
32:45the $6,000 salary,
32:47the three slaps at the event,
32:49and the indifferent stares.
32:50The hall goes silent.
32:52Everyone's listening intently.
32:53I add,
32:54back then,
32:55I always wondered
32:56if I'm as worthless
32:57as my former CEO said.
32:58Only after I left
32:59and saw the clients
33:00stood by me,
33:01did I realize
33:02that my value
33:03was never others to define.
33:05I continue.
33:06My value is built
33:07over my sleepless nights
33:09and relentless efforts
33:10over the last eight years.
33:11Know this.
33:12Every person who creates value
33:14is worthy of respect.
33:15As employees,
33:16we should know
33:17our own worth,
33:18not be manipulated,
33:19and never lose our boundaries.
33:21As management,
33:22we must respect the staff,
33:23especially those
33:24who create core values.
33:26Companies and employees
33:27are never in opposition.
33:28An excellent staff
33:29can help his company grow,
33:31and a big company
33:32gives its staff
33:33a chance to shine.
33:34Nimbus Tech's success
33:35isn't about me.
33:36It's built on one belief.
33:38Reward those who create value,
33:40and the company
33:41can grow bigger.
33:42In the next moment,
33:43everyone gave me
33:43a thunderous applause,
33:45standing up and cheering me on,
33:47their gazes filled with respect.
33:49I see Kent,
33:50standing in the crowd
33:51and smiling at me.
33:52I see Linda and my team,
33:54their eyes red with emotion.
33:56I also see Mindy,
33:57applauding with a relieved smile.
33:59In that moment,
34:00I suddenly realize
34:02I didn't achieve all this
34:03just for myself.
34:04I also did it for people like me,
34:06those who work quietly,
34:08without recognition.
34:09I want to show them
34:10that the world
34:11will give them what they want
34:12if they never give up
34:14on creating values.
34:15After the summit,
34:16people huddle around me
34:17intending to get my phone number.
34:19Business owners want my advice.
34:21Entrepreneurs want a collaboration.
34:23I respond to each of them,
34:24wearing a confident smile.
34:26Stepping outside,
34:27warm sunlight falls on me.
34:29Linda and the team rush over.
34:30She says,
34:31Ms. Lane,
34:32what a speech.
34:33People are asking
34:34if they can join Nimbus Tech.
34:35Ms. Lane,
34:36you're an industry sensation now.
34:37I smile and say,
34:39the credit isn't mine alone.
34:40It's the result of our effort.
34:41I'm buying everyone a meal.
34:43We chat merrily
34:44on our way to the restaurant,
34:46sunlight stretching our shadows.
34:47I know this isn't the end,
34:49but a new beginning.
34:49The road ahead is long
34:51and there might be more obstacles,
34:52but I'm not afraid
34:54and I'm no longer alone.
34:55I have teammates who trust me,
34:57families who support me,
34:59and clients who value me.
35:01More importantly,
35:01I found my self-worth
35:03and where I belong.
35:04I'll keep moving forward,
35:06create more values,
35:07and help more people
35:08realize their dreams.
35:09My time is just beginning
35:11and I'm ready for it.
35:12Laughter fills the restaurant's
35:14private room.
35:15Linda raises her glass,
35:16looking excited.
35:17Ms. Lane,
35:17I won't forget your speech.
35:19The new recruit,
35:20Finn Yates,
35:21says,
35:21I thought this is just a job.
35:23Now I see,
35:24we create value
35:25and shine too.
35:26I clink glasses with them.
35:27You were always good.
35:29Nimbus just gave you the chance.
35:30Mindy holds a cup of warm water
35:32and says gently,
35:33Ms. Lane,
35:34your speech moved me deeply.
35:35I only cared about fame and profit
35:37and forgot my purpose.
35:38Now I know creating value
35:40brings real peace.
35:41I say sincerely,
35:42I'm glad you see it.
35:44Everyone saw your transformation.
35:45Keep it up.
35:46More people will see your worth.
35:48There is no hierarchy here.
35:49Just shared bonds
35:50and hope for the future.
35:52Linda and I go on a stroll,
35:53a gentle breeze easing the heat.
35:55Linda asks,
35:56Ms. Lane,
35:57what's our next step?
35:58I pointed at a light.
35:59Refine the customized service
36:01to the highest level
36:02and expand overseas.
36:03Mr. Wagner and the others said,
36:05my phone buzzes.
36:06It's mom.
36:07Sweetheart,
36:07Petra's son also works in tech.
36:09He wants to know you.
36:10I smile helplessly.
36:12Mom,
36:12I just want to focus on work
36:13and nothing else.
36:14Then,
36:15I hang up.
36:16Linda grins.
36:17Sounds like a blind date.
36:18I respond,
36:19yeah,
36:19but I've got my job.
36:21I'm not lonely.
36:22Next,
36:22we focus on expanding overseas.
36:24Ben reaches out to Mason Lowe,
36:26a cross-border entrepreneur
36:27who has connections
36:28and resources.
36:29He likes our customized services.
36:31The team work late
36:32for the preparation.
36:33Mindy volunteers
36:34to handle overseas client data.
36:36I had some relevant experience
36:37at Azure Corp.
36:38She's changed
36:39from a manipulative deputy CEO
36:41to a reliable teammate.
36:42I entrusted the task to her.
36:44A week later,
36:45Mason arrives at Nimbus Tech.
36:46Mason is sharp,
36:48witty,
36:48and humorous.
36:49He listens closely
36:50to my presentation.
36:51My team and I
36:52handle his questions with ease.
36:53Mindy's data is very useful.
36:55It outlines the Istro market,
36:57its demand,
36:58and risk.
36:59And Mason is very impressed.
37:00Ms. Lane,
37:01your team is professional.
37:02Companies like this are rare.
37:04He adds decisively,
37:05start with two of my companies first.
37:07If it works,
37:08more will follow.
37:09After Mason left,
37:09the room erupts in cheers.
37:11Finn jumps up in excitement.
37:13We entered the overseas market.
37:15But overseas expansion
37:16isn't smooth.
37:17Our first proposal
37:18for an Istro client
37:19is rejected
37:20because several details
37:21violated local customs.
37:23The client says,
37:24How can we trust you
37:25when you don't know our culture?
37:26My team is demoralized.
37:28Linda blames herself.
37:30I should have done my research.
37:31I comfort her.
37:32No, Linda.
37:33It's normal to run into issues.
37:35We just have to learn from it.
37:37I immediately arrange
37:38a cultural consultant
37:39for system training.
37:41Mindy composes local culture
37:42and industry info
37:44into a manual.
37:45Linda amends the proposal
37:46with the tech team.
37:48After that,
37:49my team learned cultural context
37:51and refined the proposal.
37:52Mindy's data details
37:53the negotiation tactics
37:54our client uses.
37:56Linda and the techs
37:56work all nights,
37:57sleeping only four hours daily.
37:59When our client
38:00finally signs the contract,
38:02Linda is moved to tears.
38:04Ms. Lane,
38:04we did it.
38:05I give her a tissue.
38:06More challenges
38:07are waiting for us.
38:08Keep up the intensity.
38:09Overseas sales will get better.
38:11Business gradually stabilizes
38:12after the first Istro order.
38:14More Istro clients
38:15come in through referrals.
38:16We hire multilingual
38:17overseas specialists.
38:19The overseas sales team
38:20keeps expanding.
38:22One day,
38:22Ruby brings me good news.
38:24Ms. Lane,
38:25new rep Miles
38:26closed three orders
38:27in two months.
38:29He's the top
38:29among new staff.
38:31Miles' resume,
38:3228,
38:33top college grad,
38:34overseas experience,
38:35trilingual,
38:36deep knowledge
38:37of the Istro market.
38:39Send him to my office.
38:40He got my attention.
38:41That afternoon,
38:42Miles shows up
38:43in a sharp suit,
38:44his gaze calm and firm.
38:45I say directly,
38:47you've done well.
38:48Tell me your take
38:48on overseas expansion.
38:50Miles answers coherently.
38:52Competition is fierce
38:53on the Istro market.
38:54We should consolidate it
38:55and expand to
38:56Darun and Averon.
38:57Their internet industry
38:58is rapidly growing.
38:59They need
39:00customized service.
39:01There are also
39:02more opportunities there.
39:03We'll offer
39:03multiple language,
39:05re-time support
39:05to meet clients' needs.
39:07Miles share the ideas I have.
39:09I make a decision.
39:10I'll form another
39:11overseas team
39:12and you're the leader.
39:13You'll have the resources.
39:14Miles freezes.
39:16Then stands firm.
39:17Thank you, Ms. Lane.
39:17I won't let you down.
39:19Miles keeps his words,
39:21leading his team
39:22to sign the first
39:23Darun order.
39:24The revenue is small,
39:26but it's a big step
39:27on overseas market.
39:28Kent commended Miles
39:30at a company event.
39:31Miles proves
39:32Project Starlight works.
39:33It grooms talents
39:34and attracts elites.
39:35Nimbus Tech provides
39:36chances to those
39:37with dreams.
39:38Everyone applauds
39:39and Miles looks
39:40very proud with his team.
39:42Late night.
39:43It's raining outside.
39:44I'm about to call a cab
39:45when Miles' car
39:46pulls over.
39:47Ms. Lane,
39:48let me give you a ride.
39:49It's on the way.
39:50I get into his car.
39:51Suddenly, Miles says,
39:52Ms. Lane,
39:53I've always admired you.
39:54You've come a long way
39:55since Azure Corp.
39:56People say you got lucky,
39:58but I know it's hard work
39:59and dedication.
40:00You taught me that
40:01steady work
40:01and real value
40:02lead to reward.
40:04I grin.
40:04Success comes from
40:05effort and persistence.
40:06I'm lucky I have
40:07an amazing CEO
40:08and a good team.
40:09We arrive at my place shortly.
40:11I thank Miles
40:12and watch as his car
40:13drives away.
40:13Life is like this storm.
40:15Although it's harsh,
40:16it'll get better
40:16if we persevere.
40:17Before long,
40:18Kent sends me a text.
40:19Meeting at 9 a.m.
40:20We'll talk about IPO.
40:22Be there.
40:23The notion gets me
40:23very excited.
40:25Nimbus Tech
40:25readies for IPO
40:26amid challenges.
40:28Next morning,
40:28Kent says,
40:30Our growth means
40:30we're ready for IPO.
40:32It means more funds,
40:34bigger sway,
40:34and more rewards
40:35for staff and shareholders.
40:37The consultant walks us
40:38through the process
40:39and demands,
40:39and everyone joins
40:40in the discussion.
40:41After the meeting,
40:42Kent asked me to stay.
40:44Another team will handle
40:45IPO preparations.
40:47You'll lead core sales
40:48and overseas expansion.
40:50Also,
40:50once we go public,
40:51you and your team
40:52will have more incentives.
40:53You earned it.
40:54I'm very moved.
40:55I'll do my best.
40:56After that,
40:57everyone pushes ahead
40:58for IPO preparations.
41:00The core sales
41:00and expansion
41:01stays steady.
41:02Miles leads the Daroon team
41:03and signs more major orders.
41:05Overseas revenue
41:06keeps rising.
41:07Mindy receives
41:08an exemplary award.
41:09She's thrilled
41:10when we talk.
41:10Ms. Lane,
41:11I never thought
41:12I'd get this.
41:13Thank you so much.
41:14I smile and say,
41:15you earned this yourself.
41:16The future is wide open.
41:18Time flies.
41:19By year-end,
41:20Nimbus Tech hit new highs.
41:22Overseas revenues
41:23surpassed 30%.
41:24The IPO application
41:26is accepted.
41:27The annual event
41:27is bigger than before
41:28with guests,
41:29partners,
41:30and media.
41:31I wear a tailored dress
41:32and greet guests.
41:33Ben smiles and says,
41:35heard you going IPO.
41:36I can't wait already.
41:37The annual gala
41:38kicks off.
41:39Kent gives a speech,
41:40reviews the achievements,
41:41and announces,
41:42our IPO application
41:44has been accepted.
41:45The crowd goes wild.
41:47Employees cheer.
41:48Guests applaud.
41:49I'm nominated
41:49as the outstanding contributor
41:51with a higher bonus
41:52and incentives.
41:53Linda,
41:53Miles,
41:54Mindy also win awards.
41:56When I step on stage
41:56to accept mine,
41:57everyone applauds.
41:59I can't help but tear up.
42:01I am where I am today.
42:02Thanks to Mr. Carter,
42:03my team,
42:04and my partners.
42:05I didn't believe
42:05hard work would pay off
42:06until I joined Nimbus Tech.
42:08Creating value matters here.
42:10Going public
42:11is a new challenge for us.
42:12I'll keep pressing forward
42:13with all of you
42:14and make Nimbus Tech better.
42:16Moments later,
42:17everyone applauds.
42:18Then,
42:19everyone enjoys the celebration.
42:20With a wine glass in hand,
42:22I drink with each employee
42:23and partner.
42:24Miles comes over.
42:25Ms. Lane,
42:26congrats.
42:26Also,
42:27thank you.
42:27I respond,
42:29fate favors the prepared.
42:30You earned this.
42:31Mindy comes over.
42:32Ms. Lane,
42:33a toast to you.
42:34I found myself because of you.
42:36I drink with her and say,
42:37let us build a better tomorrow.
42:39After the annual gala,
42:41Miles offers me a ride home.
42:42I accept it.
42:43He asks me hesitantly in the car,
42:45when will you think about your love life?
42:47I smile and say,
42:49that's up to fate.
42:50I like the way I am now.
42:52The car arrives at my place.
42:53I thank Miles and get out.
42:55I lie down after washing up.
42:56Mom sends me a text.
42:58I saw the news, sweetheart.
42:59Amazing.
43:00I'm proud of you.
43:01I'll stop bugging you about your love life.
43:03Warmth fills my heart.
43:04I reply,
43:05I'm doing great.
43:06Then I look out the window.
43:07Stars are shining.
43:09The night is quiet.
43:10Nimbus' IPO faces challenges,
43:12including overseas expansion.
43:14But I'm not scared anymore.
43:15Not when I have the best team,
43:17reliable partners,
43:18and a supportive family.
43:19Respecting all efforts,
43:20I'll keep my words,
43:22create value,
43:23and overcome anything.
43:24Nimbus Tech's time has come,
43:26and my life is also shining at its brightest.
43:29I close my eyes with calm and confidence.
43:32The future looks promising.
43:33Nimbus Tech's time has come,
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