Chapter 74 Staff gossip

The next morning, Mariama sat in her office, poring over documents. A soft knock at the door interrupted her concentration. "Come in," she called. Ana, her assistant, entered, looking nervous. "Ms. Mariama, do you have a moment?" Mariama looked up, noticing Ana's discomfort. "Of course, Ana. What's on your mind?" Ana hesitated, fidgeting with the hem of her blouse. "It's... it's about the staff, ma'am. There's been talk..." Mariama leaned forward, her brow furrowing. "Talk? What kind of talk?" "Well," Ana began, her voice barely above a whisper, "some people are saying that... that you might not be the right person to lead Luxor anymore." Mariama felt as if she'd been slapped. "What? Where is this coming from?" Ana shook her head. "I'm not sure. It's just whispers, really. But after yesterday's meeting..." Mariama stood up, pacing behind her desk. "I see. And what do you think, Ana?" Ana's eyes widened. "Me? I... I believe in you, Ms. Mariama. But others... they're not so sur