The next morning, Ethan walked into the lobby of Sterling Corporation, his janitor’s uniform feeling like a costume he was about to shed. He held a simple resignation letter. He just needed one final signature before this chapter of his life was over. “Look what the sewer coughed up,” a shrill voice cut through the air. Lily stood there, clinging to Chad’s arm, her face a mask of smug satisfaction. Her eyes scanned Ethan’s cheap clothes with disgust. Chad smirked, puffing out his chest. “Come to beg for your pathetic job back, janitor? Maybe if you lick my shoes, I’ll put in a good word for you.” He held a steaming cup of expensive coffee. Ethan’s expression was unnervingly calm. He simply stared at them, his eyes cold and empty, as if looking at ghosts. This infuriated them more than any outburst could have. “Still acting mute, you worthless piece of trash?” Chad sneered. With a deliberate flick of his wrist, he sent the hot coffee splashing across the polished marble floor, just inches from Ethan’s feet. “Oops. How clumsy of me. Clean it up.” Lily laughed, a cruel, high-pitched sound. “Don’t use a mop. That’s too good for you. Get on your knees, Ethan. Use your own shirt to wipe the floor. Show us what you’re really worth.” Chad’s grin widened. “Do it. Kneel and wipe my shoes while you’re at it. It’s the only way a peasant like you can touch this kind of wealth.” Ethan’s gaze didn’t waver. Without a word, he slowly began to unbutton his worn-out shirt. He bent his knees, his movements deliberate, as if coiling a spring. Just as his knees were about to touch the ground, the main glass doors of the executive wing flew open with a bang. The entire board of directors, led by the company’s terrified CEO, rushed out in a panic. They swept past a stunned Chad and Lily, their faces pale with awe. The company's board of directors rushed out, sweeps past Chad and Lily, and drops to their knees before Ethan: 'Welcome, our new Chairman who just bought out the entire corporation!'

Kneel and Wipe My Shoes