STRONG AND CAPABLE

ARIEL

As I walked into the boardroom, my heart raced with anticipation and nerves. I had rehearsed this moment countless times, but nothing could have prepared me for the intensity of Chase’s gaze. Our eyes met, and a flurry of emotions swirled in my head. I hadn’t seen him in years, and the memories came flooding back.

I took a deep breath and began my presentation, pointing out the positives and negatives of Coles Group. My voice was steady, but my eyes kept drifting to Chase, wondering what he was thinking. Did he still resent me? Did he at least feel love for me?

“I own 10% shares in this company,” I stated, my voice firm. “And I demand a position on the board.”

Chase’s face turned red with anger.

“Absolutely not,” he spat. “You have an ulterior motive, Ariel. We can’t trust you.”

I felt a sting from his words, but I stood my ground.

“I’ve worked hard to fix the mistakes of the past, to make this company grow. I deserve a place here.”

Chase opened his mouth to argue, but his gr