Chapter Thirteen - The New Environment

"Ms. Patel," Deonna said, fighting to keep her voice steady. "I understand how serious these accusations are. But I can assure you, I have not accessed any files I shouldn't have, nor have I mishandled any sensitive information. Is there any way we can look into this further? Perhaps check the timestamps on these logs against my known whereabouts?" Ms. Patel's expression remained impassive, but she nodded. "Very well, Ms. Vernetti. We'll conduct a thorough investigation. In the meantime, you'll understand that your access to certain systems will be restricted." As Deonna left the conference room, she felt as though she was walking through a fog. The accusation hung over her like a dark cloud, threatening to destroy everything she had worked for. Back in her office, she collapsed into her chair, her mind racing. She needed to prove her innocence, and fast. But where to start? Taking a deep breath, Deonna opened her computer and began the painstaking process of going through her own