mically against the polished wood of his desk as he stared at

e was prepping for the presentation with

re than a few eyebrows, especially among the senior executives who bel

r talent, and something about Sophia told him she was precisely what

e to report back a week ago, he hadn't

fore the board meeting. Sophia's focus was resolute as she pointed out the potential flaws in the initial models. She was thor

n the Phoenix Project had

ing challenging ideas, solving problems, and creating plans that exceeded expectations. He was

, he found himself paying closer a

Back then, he'd seen Sophia as just another par

fident, sharp, and capable. With every word, she

face of his desk. His eyes shifted to the presentation slides glowing on

first quarter. The response rate should significantly exceed projections i

he meant it. "Your approach is unconven

you've built a strong case. Just make sure y

akable. She didn't just want to prove herself to the board. She wanted to prov

usted the slides, her focus sharp, her lips quirked when she was deep in thought

more guarded now as if trying to shak

ment. "I'm ready," she said, but a slight hesitation

ing a touch of realism to her confidence. This readines

houlders easing as she gathered

should have. Something was pulling at him, something unf

imself. Focus on

space, the long table shining

Their murmurs of curiosity were barely audible over the quiet hum of the air conditioning.

r voice was steady and confident. Her eyes swept the r

volutionize how we approach our next growth pha

g to the charts and answering questions with ease. He was impre

remain calm under fire for someone

s the first to question her approach,

ions are realistic?" he ask

ysis, but the market can be unpred

rs don't lie, Charles. But I understand your hesitation. It'

espond, but Alexander cut him

e. Sophia's projections are solid. I suggest w

look, but Alexand

e, this isn't just about market trends. Project Phoenix is about rethinking h

exander could feel the shift in the atmosphere. They wer

a glanced over at Alexander, her gaz

rupted into hushed conversations. Sophia gathered her things qui

. His voice was barely audible, but she caught it,

nging between them. And as Sophia exited the room, Alexa

s this

couldn't ignore the growing tension that se

't sure if