"I do not need to prove anything," Elena said. Her voice stayed flat. "The contract stands. The capital moves. The yield delivers. If Thomas wants a guarantee, he looks at the ledger. Not at my personal history."
Thomas held her gaze. "The ledger shows numbers. Numbers do not show intent. You will learn that intent matters in this company. Wait and see."
He walked past her. His footsteps faded down the hall. Elena did not watch him leave. She adjusted her clutch. Turned toward the exit. The elevator doors opened. She stepped inside. Pressed the ground floor button. The descent felt short. She stepped onto the lobby floor. Pushed through the glass doors. Cold air hit her face. She walked to her car. Got in. Started the engine. Drove back to the warehouse.
