CHAPTER 53
ARIA’S POV
The previous project overseen by Suzanne turned out to be a major disappointment, leaving me disheartened. Securing a contract with Wellington Enterprises has long been a goal of mine, and when the opportunity finally arose, I was elated. However, to my dismay, the members of our company vehemently opposed the idea
It feels as though there is a concerted effort against me, and I can’t shake the suspicion that Levi and Suzanne are behind it. Their influence seems to have swayed opinions within the team, creating an atmosphere of resistance and distrust. It is a frustrating realization that the fallout from past failures may be casting a shadow over my current endeavors.
As the meeting progresses, I can’t help but feel the weight of everyone’s gaze fixated on me. The room feels suffocating, and with
each glance exchanged, I sense an undercurrent of contempt and disdain. It is as if their expressions are a mirror reflecting back nothing but disapproval and disgust.
Despite my attempts to maintain composure, the atmosphere is palpably hostile. Each member’s demeanor seems to reinforce
the notion that I am facing an uphill battle, with their silent reproach echoing louder than any spoken words. In that moment, I
am acutely aware of the isolating feeling of being the target of collective animosity.
“Is anyone unwilling to work with me on this project?”
As I look around the room, I notice every hand raised in unison, each member waiting their turn to voice their opinion. The
tension in the air is palpable as they speak, their words weighted with caution and reservation.
“I believe we should wait for Neal to be back and give us the go–ahead.”
One of the members advises, his tone measured yet decisive. It is as if his suggestion is the obvious solution, a response I should
have anticipated.
The statement hangs in the air, a subtle indication of the prevailing sentiment within the group. It is a sobering realization that
my authority and judgement are being questioned, with the implicit message that decisions must await validation from higher
authority.
“We can’t lose such a great project. I’m supposed to give them an answer by tonight.”
Instead of stepping forward to support me and my proposal, the members offer only Indifferent shrugs. It is a disheartening sight, their lack of solidarity amplifying the sense of isolation I feel in that moment. Despite my hopes for collective action, their apathy speaks volumes, suggesting a reluctance to rally behind me.
“Did you not receive the email from Neal stating that in his absence, I’m in charge?”
The room is dead silent.
I continue expressing to them how important this project is and how our immediate response is crucial to secure our place.
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“You don’t want Neal back and learning that we’ve lost such a huge project.”
+15 Bonus
With resolve hardening my voice, I address the room, noting the fear reflected in their expressions. A strange mix of emotions. wells up within me, and despite the seriousness of the situation, I feel an urge to laugh. It is not a laugh born of amusement, but rather a release of tension, a recognition of the absurdity of the moment.
Then I take the next step that I have saved for everyone.
rmination letters and form a new one.”
“No problem if you don’t want to be part of my y team. I’ll sign the termination
A collective gasp ripples through the room, breaking the tense silence that hangs in the air. All eyes converge on old Levi and Suzanne, the once–influential figures who now seem powerless in the face of scrutiny. Their expressions betray a sense of resignation as they stare blankly at their diary, seemingly at a loss for words.
It is a moment of reckoning, where the veil of authority they once held is stripped away, revealing their vulnerability. Despite their past influence, they now stand exposed, unable to muster a defense against the mounting scrutiny. The weight of their silence speaks volumes, serving as a tacit admission of their complicity in the turmoil that has unfolded.
In the midst of this revelation, a shift occurs within the room, as the balance of power tilts in a new direction. With Levi and Suzanne rendered speechless, the dynamic of the meeting takes on a new dimension, one where accountability and transparency reign supreme.
A thought flickers through my mind like a fleeting shadow.
“The fish took the bait.”
It is a quiet acknowledgement, a moment of satisfaction amidst the chaos.
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