Chapter 64: The punishment
Disgust churned in Bella’s stomach. This was the same Olivia who had moments ago been so eager to brand her a thief. Now, cornered and exposed, she craved forgiveness. The thought left a bitter taste in Bella’s mouth. Even if she forgave her, there was no guarantee Olivia wouldn’t resume her harassment later.
This wasn’t a genuine apology, it was a desperate attempt at saving her own skin.
’No way,’ Bella thought, her resolve hardening. She knew that forgiving Olivia would only give her the chance to strike again later. She stood her ground, her expression firm and unyielding as she faced Olivia.
"Have you considered letting this matter go earlier?" Bella scoffed. "You were practically marching me to the police station just moments ago. You did everything in your power to paint me a thief. Now you’re caught in your own tangled web of lies, and suddenly you expect me to forget everything and offer forgiveness? Why on earth should I?"
"Because you have a kind heart," Olivia requested. Please, show some mercy. I promise I’ll stay out of your way from now on. No more trouble, I swear."
Bella hesitated. A flicker of empathy tugged at Bella’s heart, momentarily silencing the scoff that had been building in her throat. The sight of Olivia, so utterly broken, sparked a tiny ember of compassion.
She wondered whether she should forgive her. But her inner voice cut through the nascent empathy. Even if Bella were to offer forgiveness, there was no guarantee of a genuine change in Olivia. Gratitude wouldn’t bloom from this forced apology. The next day, she would start troubling her again.
The memory of Olivia’s eagerness to condemn her was still fresh. Taking a step back, Bella carefully distanced herself from the emotional tangle. "This isn’t my call," she said finally. "Mr. Hudson will decide what consequences your actions deserve."
Olivia’s eyes widened in panic, her last hope slipping away. She looked at Zack, her face pale and desperate.
Zack, however, remained unmoved by her pleas. His expression was resolute, reflecting the seriousness of the situation. "Your actions have consequences, Olivia," Zack reiterated. "You’ve not only betrayed a colleague but also the trust of this company. There is no place for such behavior here."