CHAPTER SIX – QUICK ON HER FEET

The next day, buoyed by the camaraderie of the previous night, Karina approached her work with renewed energy. She was in the middle of a complex analysis when Raj appeared at her cubicle. "Hey," he said in a low voice, "I've got some data that might be useful for your project. Want to take a look?" Karina nodded eagerly, following Raj to a quiet corner of the office. As he pulled up the files on his tablet, Karina marveled at how much easier work had become with a few allies on her side. They were deep in discussion when a familiar voice cut through the air like a knife. "Well, well. What do we have here?" Karina and Raj looked up to see Miguel standing over them, his eyes narrow with suspicion. For a moment, panic threatened to overwhelm Karina. But then, drawing on a well of confidence she didn't know she possessed, she smiled brightly at Miguel. "Mr. Eladio! Perfect timing. Raj was just showing me some fascinating market trends. I think you'll be particularly interested in the implications for our Southeast Asian expansion." Miguel's eyes darted between them, clearly caught off guard by Karina's enthusiasm. "Is that so?" Karina nodded, launching into a detailed explanation of the data, peppering her analysis with just enough technical jargon to make Miguel's eyes glaze over slightly. After a few minutes, Miguel held up a hand. "That's... that's enough, Ms. Zaslav. Carry on with your work. But remember, I expect that report on my desk by end of day." As Miguel strode away, Karina and Raj exchanged a look of relief, barely suppressing their laughter. "Quick thinking," Raj whispered admiringly. Karina grinned, feeling a surge of confidence. "Thanks. Now, where were we?" As they returned to their analysis, Karina couldn't help but feel a sense of triumph. She was holding her own against Miguel, and better yet, she was no longer facing him alone. The rest of the week passed in a blur of activity. Karina found herself working more efficiently than ever, bolstered by the subtle support of her newfound allies. Sarah would casually point out useful data sources. Elena would deflect Miguel's attention when Karina needed a moment of peace. Even Tom seemed to be running interference, scheduling meetings that kept Miguel occupied during crucial work hours. One afternoon, as Karina was putting the finishing touches on a presentation, she overheard a hushed conversation between two executives near the break room. "Have you noticed the change in Karina lately?" one of them murmured. "She seems... different. More confident." The other nodded thoughtfully. "I know what you mean. It's like she's finally found her footing. And did you see how she handled that client call yesterday? Impressive stuff." Karina couldn't help but smile to herself. It seemed her hard work was finally paying off, and people were starting to take notice. As she turned back to her desk, she caught sight of Miguel watching her from his office, a scowl etched on his face. But for once, Karina didn't feel the usual surge of anxiety. Instead, she met his gaze steadily, a small smile playing at the corners of her mouth. Miguel's frown deepened, and he abruptly turned away, slamming his office door behind him. Karina couldn't help but feel a twinge of satisfaction. It seemed the tables were finally starting to turn. Later that day, Karina found herself alone in the copy room, battling with a particularly stubborn paper jam. As she muttered under her breath, trying to extract the crumpled sheet without tearing it, she heard the door open behind her. "Having trouble, Ms. Zaslav?" Karina stiffened at the sound of Miguel's voice. She turned slowly, plastering a neutral expression on her face. "Just a small paper jam, Mr. Eladio. Nothing I can't handle." Miguel leaned against the doorframe, his eyes cold. "You seem to be handling a lot these days. I couldn't help but notice you've been... collaborating more with your colleagues." Karina met his gaze steadily. "Teamwork is crucial for success in any business, wouldn't you agree?" A muscle twitched in Miguel's jaw. "Indeed. But remember, Ms. Zaslav, not everyone has your best interests at heart. Loyalty can be... fleeting in this industry." Before Karina could respond, Miguel turned on his heel and left, leaving her alone with the malfunctioning copier and a growing sense of unease. As she finally managed to clear the paper jam, Karina's mind raced. Was Miguel threatening her? Or her colleagues? She'd have to be more careful, find a way to protect the fragile alliances she'd formed. That evening, as Karina was packing up to leave, Elena appeared at her cubicle, her face drawn with concern. "Hey," Elena said softly, "a bunch of us are grabbing drinks again. You in?" Karina hesitated, Miguel's veiled threat echoing in her mind. But as she looked at Elena's hopeful expression, she made a decision. She wouldn't let Miguel isolate her again. "Absolutely," Karina replied with a smile. "Let me just grab my coat."