From Outcast Contract Worker to Chairman

Summary

"Alexia, don't take any of the company's holiday bonus boxes. You're not one of us—there's nothing for you."

My manager, Kevin Davis, delivered the notice coldly, as if he were commenting on the weather—routine, impersonal.

My hand stilled on the mouse.

"The rest of you, come with me. We're heading to the company gala to collect your million-dollar bonuses!"

My colleagues filed out in high spirits.

I watched their retreating backs and answered with a bitter, "Okay."

I was a contract worker. For seven years, I had always been the odd one out in the department.