Suddenly, the invitation in Waylen's hand took on an extraordinary value. He examined it nonchalantly before saying, “You've been working diligently under my employ for many years. It's high time we give you a raise. Oh, by the way, your birthday is next month, isn't it? Treat yourself to a nice gift and be sure to take the recipe to the finance department later.”

Grateful, Jazlyn beamed and replied, “Thank you, Mr. Fowler."

With the desire to reward herself, Jazlyn later selected a necklace worth a staggering 160, 000 dollars. She believed she deserved such indulgence.

Having bid her farewell, Jazlyn departed, leaving Waylen to wander to the French window in solitude. Gazing out below, he contemplated his thoughts.

Approximately ten minutes later, his trembling fingers extracted a cigarette from his pocket, igniting it with care.