Maya approached the screen around her. Employees leaned forward. Some filmed on their phones, others exchanged bets on whether she'd crack under pressure. She studied the document for 30 seconds, then began speaking with quiet authority. The operating cash flow shows $47.3 million, indicating strong core business performance.
However, the $12.8 million in financing activities suggests significant debt servicing. The $8.2 million decrease in investing activities signals reduced capital expenditure, possibly indicating cost cutting measures or delayed growth investments. Her analysis was flawless. More than flawless. It revealed insights that impressed even the senior analysts present.
Derek's face flushed red. Anyone can memorize textbook definitions, he snapped. Real business requires instinct, connections, breeding, things you can't fake. The word breeding hung in the air like poison. Several employees shifted uncomfortably.
Jennifer's live stream exploded with outrage. Did he just say breeding? This is straight up racism. Save this video as evidence. 2:30 p.
M. 3 hours and 30 minutes remaining. The public humiliation had backfired, making Derek more dangerous. He retreated to his office with department heads Sarah Chen and Michael Torres plotting their next move. She's making me look bad.
Derek's voice carried through his partially open door. We need to get rid of her before she causes more problems. Maya passed by carrying files, her steps silent on the marble floor. She paused just outside the door listening. Claim she's disruptive, Sarah suggested.
Insubordinate. We have witnesses. Better yet, Michael added, "Say she's not following safety protocols. That's grounds for immediate dismissal. " Derek's laugh was cruel.
I like that. Frame it as a liability issue. Corporate will back us up. Maya's phone vibrated. A text from an unknown number.
Ms. Washington, this is Marcus from building security. We need to talk. Staff break room level 42. It's important. She made her way to the lower floor, finding Marcus Thompson waiting with coffee and a grim expression.
I remember where I know you from, he said quietly. 3 months ago, you toured this building with the Washington Holdings executives. You were asking about security protocols, employee satisfaction surveys. Maya's composure didn't waver, but her eyes sharpened. I've been watching what's happening upstairs, Marcus continued.
That live stream has 8,000 viewers now. People are recording everything, but Derek's planning something. I heard him talking to HR about filing a complaint against you. What kind of complaint? Safety violation.
Says you were accessing restricted areas, handling confidential documents without authorization. Marcus leaned forward. It's, but it'll stick if they push it through. Maya processed this information with clinical precision. When he's meeting with HR at 4:00 p.
M. Patricia Hayes is already preparing the paperwork. Maya checked her watch. 2 hours until the board meeting. 1 and a half hours until Derek's ambush.