Chapter Eight - The Growing Tension

A ripple of uncomfortable laughter ran through the crowd. Deonna could see the knowing looks exchanged by Logan's sycophants, the barely concealed smirks on their faces. She felt as though she were standing naked in front of them all, exposed and vulnerable. For a moment, Deonna considered fleeing, escaping the humiliation that Logan was so expertly crafting. But something inside her hardened. She wouldn't give him the satisfaction of seeing her run. Instead, she forced a smile onto her face, meeting Logan's gaze steadily. "You're absolutely right, Mr. Maine," she said, her voice calm despite the turmoil inside her. "Every member of our team plays a crucial role in our success. I'm just happy to do my part." Logan's smirk faltered for a moment, clearly thrown by her composed response. But he recovered quickly, raising his glass in a mocking toast. "To team players," he said, his voice dripping with sarcasm. As the crowd dispersed, Deonna made her way to the bar, desperately in need