The whispers Jasmine had cultivated were not meant to be loud; they were meant to be systemic, like a creeping mold that eats away at the foundation of a building. Her campaign moved into its second phase: exploiting the vulnerability she had exposed. The target this time was Kate, Larissa’s replacement.
Jasmine found Kate in the Executive Assistant’s office, Larissa’s former domain, surrounded by stacks of files that needed to be digitized and archived. Kate was diligent, efficient, and, most importantly to Jasmine, deeply focused on professional advancement.
“Kate, darling, you’re looking swamped,” Jasmine said, entering the office with a sympathetic frown that didn't quite reach her eyes. She settled easily onto the visitor chair, crossing her perfect legs.
Kate stood immediately. “M
