The air in the sterile, marble-floored lobby of Regency Global grew heavy as Secretary Tara Lee delivered a verbal slap that left Martha Pierce reeling. The older woman stood frozen, her mouth slightly agape, processing the blunt rejection. It wasn't just the words; it was the utter lack of respect in the secretary's tone.
"Secretary Tara Lee, what exactly are you implying by that?" Martha finally stammered, her face flushing a deep, mottled crimson. She tried to reclaim some semblance of authority, her voice trembling with a mix of indignation and growing fear. "We are here on urgent business regarding the project with Celeste Lynn. If this is delayed because of your interference, can you truly shoulder the responsibility for the fallout?"
The moment the words left her lips, Martha felt
