es settled into their seats, their expressions a mix of indifference and curiosity. Emily stood at the front, her laptop connected to the projector, di

ealed. "Let's see what you've got, Ms. Wilson," he said, his voice oozing

rning. Today, I'll outline the proposed strategy for improving communication between our regiona

detailing the inefficiencies in the current system. As she spoke, her confidence

one dismissive. "You're assuming compliance from regio

Crane. The strategy includes an incentive program to encourage ad

, but Julian's voice cut through

expression unreadable but his tone leaving no room for debate

ction, outlining the next steps and emphasizing the benefits of her proposal. W

firm. "Ms. Wilson, please provide the board wi

l demeanor. As the meeting adjourned, she caught Vic

anoramic view of Vienna. Emily stood near his desk, her report clutched in one hand.

d, his voice even. "But you were a l

ed his questions. Isn't t

e. "Victor isn't interested in answer

ked, her tone edging on frustration. "Shu

poke holes, he'll keep going. You have to sh

ct, Mr. Blackwood, I'm not here to

e work includes navigating the politics. You're smart, Emily, but t

kling like a live wire. Emily refused to back do

slightly. "Then you'd better hope y

She wasn't sure if she wanted to scream at him or thank

mix of admiration and frustration si

walls. She walked toward her car, her mind replaying the events of the day. The tension w

e of paper was tucked under the windshield wiper. Her stomach ti

an Blackwood. This i

er heart racing. The shadows seemed to shift, and for a moment, she thought she saw

as she was inside. Her breaths came shallow and fast as she scanned the

something held her back. Maybe it was pride, or maybe it was the gna

rdening. Whoever sent the warning didn't know he

, she couldn't shake the feeli