Chapter 14: A Game of Tension

The big glass windows in the meeting room let the sun in mid-morning make golden lines across the polished mahoganey table. Sitting opposite Noah, Isla sensed an implicit challenge in the close air. They had been working on numbers, discussing estimates, and arguing tactics for one hour. But somewhere between strategic planning and analytics, the conversation had devolved into a verbal sparring match flavored with a tension unrelated to business.

Dark eyes fixed on hers, Noah said, "Your proposed rollout is too conservative," the hint of a smirk tugging at the corners of his mouth. "It won't seize the momentum we need to differentiate us."

Not making eye contact, Isla disagreed, stating, "And your proposition is irresponsible.Before we start running, we must establish our footing; else, we will tumble before we ever approach the second phase."

Noah tilted back with arms across his chest. She tracked the movement and had to persuade herself no