Despite Davina's exemplary performance, Nicole noticed certain inconsistencies that prompted her to consider terminating Davina's employment.

It struck Nicole as peculiar that someone with Davina's level of expertise would opt to work for a smaller company like the Lawrence Group.

Upon further investigation, Nicole unearthed Davina's prior employment at the Schultz Group, shedding light on Davina's decision to join the Lawrence Group despite her considerable talents. The revelation offered clarity, dispelling any doubts about Davina's motivations and highlighting the caliber of talent Nicole had managed to recruit.

Nicole was determined not to rely on Jarrod's help and decided to address Davina's potential resignation head-on.

However, Davina countered with conviction, "Miss Lawrence, I joined your company to advance my career, not to coast along. True, I previously worked at the Schultz Group, and indeed, many prestigious companies were interested in my resume. Yet, I left the Schultz Group to join the Lawrence Group because here, my abilities are recognized and valued. At larger firms, including the Schultz Group, the talent pool is vast and my contributions would barely make a ripple."

In such mammoth organizations, not only are there individuals more skilled, but the competition and office politics can be overwhelming.

"After careful consideration, I chose the Lawrence Group. It wasn't Mr. Schultz who directed me here. When Mr. Schultz sought flexible employees, I wasn't his primary pick. Others more adept at navigating corporate waters were chosen, but they hesitated to trade a secure position at a large firm for a role at a smaller, untested one. I did my homework on the Lawrence Group and stepped forward willingly. Mr. Schultz's assistant recognized my genuine enthusiasm and selected me. I've formally resigned from the Schultz Group. Mr. Schultz is no longer my boss. I am here because my work is appreciated, and I can enjoy a good living. So, please don't push for my departure, and rest assured, I'm not naive. I know how to look after myself."

Convinced by Davina's earnest and reasoned explanation, Nicole discarded the idea of dismissing Davina from the company.

Nicole's trust in her own judgment was bolstered by Davina's honest and forthright demeanor.

Moreover, while Davina might have been shrewd, she hadn't crossed any ethical or legal Lines.

Convinced of Davina's commitment and recognizing her joy in the work, Nicole resolved to expand the Lawrence Group, creating more opportunities for Davina to flourish.

That evening, Davina managed the dinner event with aplomb.

As the evening drew to a close, Nicole began to feel unwell.

Observing her discomfort, Davina quickly arranged transportation and escorted Nicole to the car before heading back to conclude the dinner.

During the ride home, Nicole's condition worsened. Uncertain if she was simply chilled or something more, she felt an unsettling discomfort in her stomach and gripped the car seat, urging the driver to slow down.

Unfortunately, the driver, showing impatience, maneuvered the car erratically, exacerbating Nicole's nausea.

As Nicole's gagging sounds filled the car, the driver exclaimed in a mix of panic and irritation, "Hey, keep it together back there! Any mess you make is going to cost you a hefty $500 clean-up fee!"

Nicole was left speechless by the driver's callous remark. Her frustration boiled over as she retorted, "Sir, I specifically asked you to slow down."

The driver responded dismissively, “I've been driving like this for 20 years. Slowing down now just isn't how I operate. If you're not happy, you can get out."

True to his word, the driver abruptly pulled over and left Nicole stranded on the side of the road.