Paisley Rayne, a capable woman in her early forties, occupied the desk, engrossed in perusing various documents. As Rena approached, Paisley gestured for her to take a seat.

Eager to offer an explanation, Rena was swiftly interrupted by Paisley's words.

"Indeed, it was Aline who brought this matter to my attention. However, I have turned a blind eye to it for some time, considering the hardships your family has faced. But since yesterday, more and more parents have become aware of your part-time job and their discontent has flooded my phone lines. You are well aware that the families of the piano students in our esteemed music studio are either affluent or influential. I really cannot afford to offend these angry parents."

Rena comprehended the weight of Paisley’s words.

Reluctant to burden Paisley, who had consistently treated her with kindness, Let alone tarnish her own integrity, Rena delicately removed her work identification card and placed it upon the table.

Softly, she expressed her gratitude, saying, “I sincerely appreciate the nurturing guidance you have provided me over these past few years

Paisley felt a tinge of disappointment wash over her.

She inhaled deeply, gathering her thoughts and uttered, “Do you comprehend the weight of departing from the music studio? Can you fathom the multitude of individuals consumed by envy due to your possession of an abundance of exceptional students?"

Rena surely knew the gravity of her decision.

But it wasn't like there was anything she could do about it!

She could only succumb to tears and offer her apologies to Paisley, who had previously extended invaluable support.

Paisley grew restless.

She ignited a cigarette, drawing from it and gazing up at Rena, articulating, "Tell me, have you managed to offend someone?"

Rena nodded, acknowledging the truth.

She was certain Aline couldn't be the catalyst of this trouble; it had to involve Harold!

She yearned to unravel the extent of Harold's cunning methods for dealing with her.

Paisley extinguished her cigarette, her heart still filled with sympathy, as she imparted, “To appease those parents, you must depart from the music studio. If an opportunity arises in the future, I shall endeavor to reinstate you."

Despite these assurances, they both knew that Rena's professional standing would encounter significant challenges following this incident.

Rena exited Paisley's office, her countenance pale and desolate.

While she gathered her belongings, her colleagues offered sympathetic glances. Only Aline interjected, dripping with sarcasm, “Rena, you ought to be well-acquainted with the regulations here! Your mistake transpired merely because Miss Rayne favored you. Now, your reputation within the industry is tarnished! Who would dare enlist your piano teaching services in the days to come?"

Rena drew a deep breath, her voice dripping with coldness, as she asserted, "So, you conspired with Harold against me, didn't you? Are you not afraid that he will someday turn against you as well?"

Aline sauntered closer, a contemptuous sneer etched upon her face.