I pulled over two blocks away from Simon’s house, letting the tears flow. It was the first time I had really cried in years. It seemed daft really, it had barely been a week, but for the first time in my life, I had been sure he was the one. Not now, I knew he was just another arrogant, rich businessman who thought money answered all life’s questions.

Eventually, my eyes dried enough to allow me to drive home; my flat seemed smaller than ever and incredibly lonely. I didn’t bother with food, or even a wash, within five minutes I was sobbing into my pillow, slowly crying myself to sleep.

The next morning I felt better, I would show him that I didn’t need him, that I was good at my job and my colleagues would see me rise on my own merit.

I actually felt fantastic as I headed out the door and jumped into my car. I was the first one in and I got straight to work. In fact, I didn’t see anyone until about ten; when Fiona stuck her head in the door.

“Hey,” She said softly. “You okay?”

I nodded as I said, “Yes, great.” I paused looking at her, “Why?”

Fiona looked awkward. “I know you weren’t doing anything with Simon, I was just winding you up. I didn’t realize you would take it so badly.”

I smiled at her; she didn’t need to know the truth. “Don’t worry about it; I was having a bad day yesterday.”

It was just ten minutes later that my phone rang. “Hi Kate.” Ellie’s soft, almost musical voice came down the line. “Simon needs to see you, please.” Her voice sounded apologetic. “No worries,” I said brightly. I wouldn’t be letting him off that easily though!

I strolled along the corridor until I reached the elevator. A moment later I was smiling at Ellie as she said, “Go on in.” I pushed open the door, suddenly feeling like a naughty schoolgirl again. Thoughts of Simon punishing me flooded my mind; I could feel the desire welling up in me again.

“Kate, close the door please.” Simon’s voice had an authoritative edge. “I have been reviewing the financials and the forecasts and have to say the company is not doing as well as it could.” He paused, shaking his head for emphasis. I suddenly had an idea where this was heading. “I’m afraid we can’t afford two specialists in your field and I am expecting Stacey back in another week. Therefore, as you are on a probationary contract I will be finishing it at the end of the contract and not renewing it.” He smiled softly at me as he added; “It will give you time to find something else. If you need time off to look then please feel free to take it.”

I gasped, the shock of his words taking a moment to sink in. “You are firing me because I split up with you?” I managed to choke out. Simon laughed, “Don’t be silly,” His eyes narrowed as he said “Just don’t let me see you in the office again.”

Too shocked for words I walked out of his office and back to my own. For a moment I stared at the screen, my mind both blank and whirling. I didn’t know what to do or say. It took me just a few minutes to realize that this was a good time to take a walk; no one would prevent me or question what I did now.

Somehow I found my way to the exit, the fresh air hit my lungs; feeling like icicles striking my body. I headed down the road. I wasn’t ready to collect my stuff or even drive my car; in fact, I wasn’t even sure where I was going. One thought kept going round in my head, “Now I know why it is a mistake to date your boss.”

The more I thought about it the more annoyed I became. How dare he have the audacity to fire me just because I had broken up with him? It was his fault I had needed to end it. As I walked I could feel my anger building, a flame started to burn deep inside and I knew it wouldn’t be extinguished until I had taken my revenge. I had ten more weeks before my contract ended; I would use them to extract my revenge; I would take his company apart from the inside.

I stopped, looking left and right. I didn’t recognize this part of town. I suddenly felt invigorated, there was nothing that would stop me; Live Enterprises and Simon in particular would rue the day that they had dismissed me so easily. Anger quickened my pace; whatever I thought I felt for Simon didn’t matter anymore. He had dismissed me like a piece of dirt.

For a moment I dwelled on his piercing ice blue eyes, the squareness of his jaw line and the affection he had shown me. I could still feel the heat of his body as I ran my hands across his chiseled torso. For a moment I had seen a happiness that I thought I would never have again. Now, I knew that was true; it had all been a game, one that rich and arrogant men always play; until they get what they want.

I had to acknowledge the strength of my feelings for him; I had been falling for him; that was why it was so important to make sure he paid. There had been too many men in the past taking advantage; Simon would pay the price for all of them.

I turned, feeling more determined than ever to see this through to the end. It was time to get back to the office. “Watch out miss!” I heard the man call and glanced to my left. All I could see was the front end of a car only inches away from me.