Sterling & Co., Technical Department.
Team leader, do you really have to go? Exceptional leaders like you are so hard to come by.
Yeah, it’s so sudden!
Can’t you stay…
Mila had just finished a meeting when several of her close teammates surrounded her, each vying for her attention, concerned about her impending departure.
Although she was serious and focused at work, her temperament was generally agreeable. Even when she did get stern, it was strictly for work-related matters. She was known to reward her team with bonuses, treat them to dinners, and even arrange for vacations when projects were successfully completed. Her technical expertise commanded respect, and she fostered a relaxed work environment with flexible leave policies.
It was no wonder they were reluctant to see her go.
Don’t worry. I’ve ensured that your new leader is up to the mark. They’re a good person, Mila reassured them.
With no more meetings and her responsibilities winding down, Mila allowed her usual stern demeanor to relax, a genuine smile lighting up her face.
Her beauty was undeniable, and when she smiled, it was like a burst of sunshine, captivating everyone around her.
In a department filled mostly with men, her departure felt like a collective sigh of regret. We used to draw inspiration from our leader’s radiant presence to solve bugs and write code. Now that she’s leaving, I’m not sure how I’ll focus on work, one of the guys lamented.
A few of the women joined in with playful complaints.
Feigning sternness, Mila said, What, do you only listen to me because of my looks?
The group quickly responded, No, no, of course not.
Her years of authority still held sway, and when she put on a serious face, no one dared to joke around.
Looking at the circle of colleagues she had worked alongside for so many years, Mila felt a pang of nostalgia and sadness. Although technology wasn’t her true passion, the bonds she had formed were genuine, and she had poured her heart into her work.
With a smile, she said, Alright, alright, let’s have one last meal together tonight. Now, everyone, back to work.
No, he didn’t come to me directly!
Miranda’s initial sadness quickly turned to anger.
That scoundrel! He leveraged the business relationship between Harding & Cole Legal and Montgomery Holdings to pressure my firm to remove all my projects. I’m almost suspended now. And to top it off, he went to my father and pressured him to stop me. He’s completely lost it!
Listening to Miranda’s voice, Mila felt her heart plummet.
She knew Lysander could be ruthless but never imagined he’d stoop so low as to target her friend directly.
How could he be so heartless?
The thought of her situation impacting her best friend made Mila’s chest tighten with guilt, tears welling up in her eyes.
I’m so sorry, Miranda. I’ll go and talk to Lysander about this…