There's nothing interesting about this place. The food, the drinks, even the people attending—everything is boring. The taste of the pasta in my mouth is bland, adding to my frustration.
From a distance, I can clearly see people gathering around that man, engaging in conversations, shaking his hand, and congratulating him.
That newbie doesn't deserve any of it. Shouldn't it have been me who truly earned all that?
I took a deep breath, which only made my chest feel tighter. The drink sliding down my throat added to the pain.
In my head, I kept counting how many people had approached him to offer congratulations. I told myself that once it reached a hundred, I'd get up and do the same. Unfortunately, the total number of employees in this office is only about fifty, including a few office boys, security guards, and cleaning staff. So... it's guaranteed that I won't be congratulating him.
I squinted my eyes as I watched his wide smile. I've worked tirelessly, overtime, sacrificing my breaks, and often being the one he turned to for help. Yet, I received nothing.
His name is Damar Pramana, known as Damar in the office. He joined Global Kimia, a company that supplies niacinamide—now popular in skincare—just three years ago. Meanwhile, I've been with the company for over five years. I've given so much to this company, so why was it that this rookie was promoted to head of the marketing team? I grimaced, realizing that all my sacrifices meant nothing.
Rumor has it that Damar has strong connections with the company's higher-ups, allegedly being related to the CEO of Global Kimia.
Thinking about it again made my head boil. I still remember his first day at Global Kimia. His awkward, timid demeanor and clueless expression made me feel sorry for him, leading me to help him whenever he struggled. Damn it. If I could go back, I'd ignore him and let him struggle on his own.
"You're really enjoying eating alone."
I turned to see Rien, my coworker, pulling up a chair and sitting beside me. To celebrate Damar's promotion to head of the marketing division, the company rented this fancy restaurant and allowed employees to order whatever they wanted.
Why should the company pay for his promotion celebration? Why couldn't he use his own money? This alone proves something is fishy between Damar and the company. Just the thought of it makes me furious.
Annoyed... Annoyed... Annoyed!
"Whoa, are you hungry or just love food?" Rien commented as she watched me stuff my plate clean.
"Both," I replied nonchalantly and got up from my seat.
"Done already?" Rien asked again.
"Yeah, I'm heading out. Can't stay here too long," I replied, without explaining the real reason I was leaving the event so early.
I glanced briefly at Damar, who was still surrounded by people congratulating him. Whatever. I don't care about Damar or his promotion.
I quickly stepped out of the restaurant. No one would notice my absence because Damar was the center of attention.
Once in my car, my mind remained restless. I felt a mix of anger and frustration that I couldn't express. I've experienced situations like this countless times, so why does it still hurt?
No one knows that deep down, I've always been obsessed with being the best, the most recognized, the one who stands out. Yet, I've never achieved that.
From childhood until now, I've always been disappointed in my desire to be number one. It's painful when that dream is snatched away by someone else.
I grimaced and ran my fingers through my hair. I should be numb by now, but it still stings when I'm not the one who comes out on top.
Isn't it natural for me to be upset right now? Damar, that rookie, isn't much better than me. He's too young and inexperienced for the position. I'm confident that I deserve it more. So why did he get it?
My heavy sigh reflected my frustration. I've distanced myself from him, yet my thoughts still revolve around that man. Just because he has connections with the company owner, everything else is ignored.
Damn it! I'd even be more accepting if Rien, Mas Geri, or anyone else from my division got the position. My frustration only deepens my resentment toward him.
I leaned my head against the car seat and slowly inhaled. No one should know how angry I am right now. I refuse to look even more pathetic. Calm down, Bulan. This is just another setback. Everything will go back to normal soon.
Once I felt more composed, I started the car, ready to leave the parking lot. But then, a tapping sound on my window caught my attention.
Leon?
I furrowed my brows to confirm the figure knocking on my window. Why is he here? Did he follow me?
"Bulan…" he called after I opened the door and glared at him.
"What now? I told you to stop looking for me. We're done, Leon!" I snapped, my breath quickening as my frustration only grew upon seeing the man I dated for three years—only to end things after catching him cheating with a coworker.
"No, Bulan! That was your decision. We haven't even talked properly," he protested.
"There's nothing left to talk about," I replied coldly, turning to get back into the car. This man is terrifying. He even followed me here just to explain something I refuse to hear.
"Wait, Bulan!" Leon grabbed my arm, halting my steps. I squinted, displeased with his actions. This man added to my list of failures. He betrayed me, making me his second choice.
If I weren't wearing a short skirt and high heels, I would've kicked his head to stop him from grabbing my arm.
"I made a mistake. Please forgive me," he pleaded softly, still holding my arm. How did I waste three years of my life on this man?
"Leave, Leon! I don't want to see you again!" I shouted, struggling to break free from his grip.
"Did you not understand what she said?" A voice made me turn quickly.
It was Damar, standing right behind me, glaring at Leon.
Oh no! He's the one who should be leaving!(*)