The soft morning light filtered through the blinds of Mary's small office, casting delicate stripes across her desk. It was a new day, a fresh start, a chance to put aside the anxieties and uncertainties of the previous one. She arrived early as usual, seeking solace in the familiar rhythm of her morning routine.
First, a thorough scan of her inbox, deleting the spam, flagging the urgent requests, and carefully categorizing the rest. Then, a steaming mug of chamomile tea, brewed in her mother's hand-painted mug, its warmth spreading through her as she inhaled the soothing aroma. Finally, a quick review of her schedule, mentally preparing for the day's tasks, knowing that Thorne Industries could throw curveballs at any moment.
She was just about to dive into the filing system when a cheer
