CHAPTER FIVE HUNDRED AND EIGHTY SEVEN – WORKING FROM THE BACKGROUND

Over the next few weeks, Jasmine threw herself into implementing the new policies. She scheduled regular one-on-one meetings with each team member, created more opportunities for collaborative work, and made a point of being more visible around the studio. At first, the changes seemed to be having a positive effect. Team members appeared more relaxed, and there was a noticeable uptick in productivity. But as time went on, Jasmine began to notice subtle signs that all was not well. Jana, ever adaptable, had found ways to work within the new system. She was a model of professionalism in team meetings and one-on-ones with Jasmine, but whispers of her manipulative behavior continued to circulate. One afternoon, Jasmine was walking back to her office when she overheard a hushed conversation between two team members. "I'm telling you, it's getting worse," a voice she recognized as Jake's hissed. "Jana's been spreading rumors about my work, saying I'm not pulling my weight." "Are you sur