Ongoing · — reads

I Built the Game, They Paid the Intern $10M

The game I led the development of won an international award and generated $500 million in sales. The company promised a $10 million bonus. But when payday arrived, the $10 million was handed to the new intern instead. Stunned, I thought there had been some mistake in accounting, so I stormed straight into the CEO’s office. “Mr. Jefferson, was the $10 million bonus a mistake?” I asked, trying to keep my voice steady. Grant Jefferson didn’t even bother to look up. “Ms. Sanderson, I’ve looked into it,” he said coolly. “Most of the core code for the game was written by Regina Addison. She worked late into the night and even spent weekends in the office—and what about you? You finish your work, play on your phone, and leave on the dot. Attitude is everything.” I almost laughed, but it was more out of anger than amusement. “Regina is just an intern,” I shot back. “Does she even know the entire code?” “That's enough!” Grant cut me off, his voice sharpening as he lifted a hand. “The company’s decision is final. I’ve seen everyone’s performance, including yours. If you’re not happy, you can always find another job.” With that, he tossed a resignation letter onto the desk. My heart dropped to my stomach, and I signed it right then and there. Before I left, I turned and threw a final remark over my shoulder. “Mr. Jefferson, if there are any technical issues in the future, go ask Regina, who’s always working overtime. Don’t bother me,” I said, my tone icy. He chuckled, dismissive. “No problem,” he replied.