CHAPTER FIFTY - Unexpected Developments

The negotiations were intense, with long days of back-and-forth discussions. Claire's team, once skeptical, now rallied behind her. Even Greg became a staunch supporter, impressed by Claire's ability to hold her own against the other company's aggressive negotiators. One evening, as Claire was packing up to leave, Evelyn stopped by her desk. "You've done good work here, Langford," she said. "I knew I made the right choice in bringing you on board." Claire felt a surge of pride. "Thank you, Ms. Reeves. That means a lot coming from you." Evelyn nodded. "Don't let it go to your head. We still have a long way to go. But... keep it up." As Claire left the office, she felt a sense of accomplishment. She pulled out her phone to call Mason, eager to share the good news. "Hey," Mason's warm voice greeted her. "How was your day?" Claire couldn't keep the excitement out of her voice. "It was great! Evelyn actually complimented me. I think we're making real progress on the merger." "That's