CHAPTER NINE – FAILED PLAN

Finally, after what felt like hours, the chairman called an end to the meeting. "Thank you, Ms. Zaslav, for an excellent presentation. The board will review your proposal in detail and reconvene next week for a final decision. But I think I speak for everyone when I say we're very impressed with what we've seen today." As the room began to clear, Karina felt a mix of exhaustion and elation wash over her. She'd done it. She'd presented her plan, held her ground against Miguel's attempts to undermine her, and come out on top. As she gathered her materials, Karina became aware of a presence beside her. She looked up to see Miguel standing there, his face unreadable. "Ms. Zaslav," he said, his voice low, "it seems I may have... underestimated you." Before Karina could respond, Miguel turned on his heel and strode out of the room, leaving her to wonder if she'd imagined the hint of respect in his tone. As Karina made her way back to her desk, she was met with a flurry of congratulation