Chapter 125

Olivia POV

Alice had the decency to look embarrassed. “Nothing. Just... you know how people talk.”

My stomach clenched. “What are people saying?”

The three exchanged glances.

“Nothing specific,” Vivian said carefully. “Just the usual office gossip when someone gets a big promotion soon after marrying the CEO.”

“I’ve been working my ass off for so long,” I reminded them, anger simmering beneath my professional facade. “I’ve stayed late, come in on weekends, and delivered results consistently.”

“We know that,” Nova assured me quickly. “And anyone who’s worked with you knows it too. Don’t mind the jealous assholes.”

As if on cue, there was another knock, and Jessica appeared with my new security badge and office keys.

“Mrs. Carter, here are your credentials,” she said, handing me a sleek leather folder. “HR has scheduled an orientation session at 11 AM to review your new system accesses and responsibilities. Is there anything else