Jayden and Ann walked in tow towards the meeting room with a boost in their hands, with their pointed-toe heels making a clack-clack sound on the tiled floor, exuding a professional aura.
Jayden entered in her tailored navy pantsuit.
The meeting room was already filled with various department heads and those who are concerned, as well as key project managers. The meeting room was brightly lit, displaying the dignified aura of the various expenses in their area. A long nameless table was placed in the middle with state-of-the-art presentation tools, with the members sitting on chairs around it. They all exchanged murmurs, trying to speculate on the purpose of the gathering.
The professional entrance of Jayden and Ann quieted the murmuring as the confident stride silenced the room. Jayden walks towards the main chair, Ann at the head of the table, with Jayden sitting on a similar one on the right side. The various department heads and key project leaders, as well as everyone present, stood to acknowledge the presence of the two.
They only took their seat after the two had properly settled in. "Thank you all for coming on such short notice," Jayden started, her tone calm but firm.
"It is indeed a thing of joy for me to see how well you all were able to hold the fort in my absence, together with Ann, as well as my personal assistant. I could see how you were able to see the company run smoothly with no hiccups and delivering every project in a prosperous manner, leaving the client in awe and happy, and to this, I say a very big thank you to everyone that might have been involved." From the head of department to the clerk, you all did an amazing job, and it was a pleasure working with you all. Jayden said.
Now that everyone is here, we should take a good look at the situation we have at hand. The latest report has been improved, and while I'm impressed, there's still room for improvement.
This meeting won't just be about reviewing plans but also about solidifying our mission and making sure everyone is comfortable with their role and also if there's any issue, suggestion or complaint. I'd love it for us to all discuss it now.
She seamlessly moved through the agenda, her points clear and concise. Having already thanked everyone, she addressed challenges, gave instructions and outlined her expectations for the coming weeks.
Jayden made sure to lay emphasis on teamwork and innovation, which struck a chord with the whole group present. They had a new energy bubbling within them, everyone eager for the opportunities that lay ahead.
In the final moments, she inclined herself towards them a little softening her voice, she said, There's one more thing. Although I will refrain from elaborating at this moment, there will be a period when I'll be temporarily unavailable.
There's no need for you to worry; this will be an opportunity for everyone to showcase their ability. Jay Decors will always run smoothly with or without my presence. We should prove the credibility and effectiveness of the team we've built together.
The room was filled with a pin-drop silence; the weight her words carry weighs heavily on everyone. Despite the challenges and burden that lie ahead, they all nod their heads in understanding, displaying the full trust they had in her.
The meeting was later concluded in one voice. Jayden rose with full confidence. " Let's all move forward together, stronger than ever. Thank you. She said and majestically stepped out of the room.
** ** **
After returning to her office, Jayden was challenged by Ann: Jay, don't you think it's too risky mentioning the plan to the employee? What if there is a mole? This might get to your father's head, and you know he does not leave any stone unturned. He wants to get to the root of the matter.
Sure, you're right, but there's nothing like a free meal in the world. In certain situations there must be risk, but you also have to know that I've thought about all these beforehand.
True, my father will definitely be suspicious of the situation, but he'll only think I'm clearing my schedule for the wedding or honeymoon; at least he wouldn't think of any outrageous plan from me. So we should be safe for now.
And if worst comes to worst, all we have to do is to speed up the plan. Or what do you think? Jayden asked.
Ohh, you're right. Let's make sure everything is in order in case of anything.
Speed up the plan if necessary. I trust the groundwork we've laid." She leaned forward, resting her elbows on the desk. "And I trust you, Ann. We've come too far to turn back now."
Ann exhaled, her posture relaxing slightly. "Alright. Let's make sure everything is in order. If anything goes wrong…"
"It won't," Jayden interrupted, her voice resolute. "We'll be ready."
The two women shared a look of understanding before turning their attention to the tasks at hand. They both knew the risks, but they also knew what was at stake.
Having discussed all that was to be said, Jayden proceeded to continue working swiftly on her work while also taking notice of the simple changes that had taken place in her absence.
Ann was also carried away in her thinking; even with her solid trust in her friends and her plan, she couldn't help the nagging feeling in her mind. She kept sighing but knew well that no matter what, everything was all set in place.
All that they are waiting for now is for Tracy to come back and the location; then they carry out their plan in a flawless manner.
The sound of the telephone distracted Jayden and Jared Ann back from her faraway thought.
Jayden stared at the number displaying on the call log, her pulse quickening and her grip on the phone tightening. A cold wave of dread washed over her as she took a deep breath to steady herself. She turned the screen toward Ann, her lips moving silently, "My Father."
Ann's eyes widened in shock, and for a moment, she froze, her heart pounding as if she's been stripped of every dignity,all their plan and secret out in the open.
She encouraged her friend to pick up with her eyes. Jayden does so without talking, her father's loud penetrating voice booming inside the office.
You this unfilial child, what are you up to, hmmm! Didn't even dare to pick this old man's call again? Always made me worried about you, just get your ass back here. This man here has something to ask of you and discuss. He said and hung up the call without waiting for any reply.
With this expected development, Ann stares at Jayden, both with a lot going through their minds.