The backlash didn't arrive as outrage.
It arrived as concern.
Aaliyah recognized it immediately, the tonal shift, the way language softened while intent sharpened. Emails began with praise and ended with caution. Calls opened with gratitude and closed with unease.
We support your mission, but…
This could become polarizing.
Have you considered the long-term implications?
Concern was the most respectable way to apply pressure.
She was reading one such message when Rowan stepped into her office, eyes already scanning Aaliyah's expression.
"They're worried," Rowan said.
"They're invested," Aaliyah replied calmly. "Worry is how they say it out loud."
Rowan leaned against the doorframe. "About what?"
"About losing the ability to manage outcomes," Aaliyah said. "About being named without being attacked."
Rowan smiled faintly. "That's a new discomfort."
Aaliyah closed the email and set her phone face-down. "They're asking me to soften the language in the next release."
