Chapter 9 The Edge of Control The office was eerily silent that morning, save for the rhythmic clicking of Islas heels as she made her way to her office. She barely glanced at the employees she passed, her mind focused entirely on the day ahead. The stakes were getting higher, and she wasnt about to let Nolan gain the upper hand. As she reached her door, she hesitated. Something felt off. The handle was already turned slightly, as if someone had been inside. Pushing the door open, she found Nolan sitting at her desk, casually flipping through a folder. He looked up, completely unbothered. Youre late. Her jaw tightened. I wasnt aware I had to report to you. He smirked, closing the folder and sliding it toward her. Just making sure youre up to speed. She grabbed the file and glanced at it. It was the same project proposal she had been working on, but with new notes scribbled in the margins. His notes. Next time, she said coolly, wait for an invitation before sitting at my desk. Nolan leaned back, unfazed. Fair enough. But we have a problem. Isla sat down, crossing her arms. What kind of problem? The board is considering a counteroffer from another firm. Theyre not convinced youre the right person to lead this deal. She arched an eyebrow. And let me guessyou just found out? He gave a slow nod. The vote happens in forty-eight hours. She tapped her fingers against the desk, considering. And you expect me to fix it. I expect you to prove to them that no one else can do it better. She studied him for a moment before opening the folder. Then I guess I better get to work. That evening, Isla found herself pacing her apartment, her mind racing through the possibilities. She had spent hours going over the numbers, refining her strategy, preparing for the meeting that would determine her future. A knock at the door broke her concentration. She sighed, already knowing who it was. Opening it, she found Nolan, a bottle of whiskey in one hand, a folder in the other. Thought you might need this. She stared at him. You have a habit of showing up uninvited. He smirked. And yet, you always let me in. She rolled her eyes but stepped aside. He walked in, setting the whiskey on the counter before handing her the folder. New projections. She flipped through it, nodding. These look solid. He poured two glasses, handing her one. Then were ready. She took a sip, watching him over the rim. He leaned against the counter, his eyes scanning her face. Youve changed. She set her glass down. You keep saying that like its a bad thing. He shook his head. Just… different. She sighed. I had to be. Silence stretched between them, thick with unsaid words. Finally, he nodded. Get some rest. Big day tomorrow. She smirked. I dont need rest. I need results. He chuckled. Thats what worries me. As he left, Isla exhaled, steeling herself. Tomorrow, everything would change. And she was ready for it. The boardroom was full, every seat occupied by executives and investors waiting for her to make her case. Isla took a steadying breath before stepping forward, her gaze sweeping across the room. For weeks, weve analyzed this deal, weighing risks against rewards, she began. But what we havent done is acknowledge the opportunities wed be leaving on the table if we dont move forward. She clicked a remote, bringing up a slide with new figures. These projections are based on recent market trends. The potential is undeniable. Murmurs rippled through the room. She continued, undeterred. I understand the concerns. But hesitation costs us leverage. And if we wait too long, we wont just lose this dealwell lose our standing in the industry. She turned to face them fully. I didnt come back to play it safe. I came back to win. A long silence followed before one of the board members finally spoke. Well reconvene shortly for the vote. Isla nodded, stepping back. As the room emptied, she felt Nolan approach. That was bold, he murmured. She smirked. Bold wins. His eyes darkened. Lets hope it does. As they waited for the decision, Isla knew one thing for certainshe had done everything she could. And now, all she could do was wait. Five-year-old Annie, who can understand animals, saved Landon Hawthorne, a wealthy businessman, from suicide. Now she's his whole world and he's her legal cheat-code against every villain fate throws ...