CHAPTER SEVENTY-SEVEN - A New Path Forward

"Perhaps we should take a short break," Evelyn suggested, her voice clipped. "Claire, a word outside, please." Heart sinking, Claire followed her boss out of the boardroom. As soon as the door closed behind them, Evelyn rounded on her. "What's going on with you, Claire?" she demanded. "This isn't the work I've come to expect from you. That mistake could have cost us millions if it had gone unnoticed." Claire felt tears pricking at the corners of her eyes. "I'm sorry, Evelyn. I've just been... distracted lately. It won't happen again." Evelyn's expression softened slightly. "Look, I know things have been tough with Mason and the lawsuit. But you can't let your personal life affect your work like this. We're counting on you, Claire. I need to know if you can handle this project." The implication that she might not be up to the task stung. "Of course I can handle it," Claire insisted. "I just need to refocus. It won't happen again, I promise." Evelyn nodded, though she didn't look e