Chapter 6 Didn't Anyone Notice It?

The editor-in-chief raised his hand gently, signaling for silence to calm Alayna's frayed emotions. "Alayna, I want to clarify something. Firing you was never my intention. Your role holds immense importance within our team. However, the mistake you made today could have a detrimental impact on our station's reputation."

He continued, genuine concern evident in his voice, "Instead of terminating your employment, I strongly believe that taking a vacation would be best for both you and the company. This will allow you to reflect, improve, and ensure that your future performance is exemplary."

Alayna's frustration began to ease as she replied, "Alright, I understand your perspective. I will take today off, as you suggest. However, I will be back at work tomorrow. No one can take my place as the investigative host in my absence."

The editor-in-chief nodded approvingly. "That's the spirit, Alayna. Show us that you can bounce back and prove your worth."

With a confident nod, Alayna affirmed, "Of course, sir. But please understand, that it's not my fault that the running text differed from the video being shown. If I had read it as is, it would have been even more embarrassing."

Perplexed, the editor asked, "What do you mean?"

Alayna responded, her frustration turning into disbelief, "Didn't anyone notice it?"

A sense of flustered unease washed over the newsroom crew as one of them quickly grabbed the remote control, replaying the just-finished news segment on the large screen.

"Damn," he muttered while studying the screen intently, "There's an error in the running text! The news content doesn't align with the video being displayed."

His nearby colleague raised an eyebrow skeptically, asking, "Are you serious?"

With a mix of frustration and regret, the crew member nodded, "Unfortunately, yes. That's why Alayna took it upon herself to make the necessary alterations. She was trying to save all of us from the embarrassment."

The editor-in-chief shook his head, his expression remaining stern. "How did this critical error occur? Where was the editorial team in all of this?"

The room went silent as the weight of responsibility settled on the crew's shoulders.

Amidst the tense atmosphere, the tallest crew member took a deep breath and mustered the courage to speak, "We should have been more careful and not rely on one person to handle the news text. This mistake is on us."

Another crew member chimed in, regret etched on their face, "Also, we should have better communication among ourselves and double-checked the accuracy of the news before it went live."

The chief editor nodded slowly, disappointment evident in his eyes. "You're right. A single inaccurate story can tarnish our media's credibility. We must implement strict procedures to verify every aspect of our reports before they are broadcast. There should be no room for such errors in the future," he ordered firmly.

"Yes, sir," the crew members responded, their voices carrying the weight of the tension that lingered in the air.

"We cannot allow this mistake to slow down our progress. Channel your efforts into improving your performance," the chief editor turned to address Alayna directly. "Alayna, you made the right decision. However, you must focus on your work to prevent further mistakes."

"Yes, sir. I understand," Alayna replied, a mix of relief and determination evident in her voice.

She let out a deep sigh, grateful that her actions were understood. Under less chaotic circumstances, such an error would never have occurred. With heightened focus, she was sure to steer the news narrative back on track smoothly.

After the running text issue was resolved, Alayna headed toward her office. The tension had subsided, but she felt drained of all energy. Her body slumped into the office chair, and she sat there silently, lost in her thoughts.

Suddenly, a knock on the door startled Alayna, jolting her out of her deep contemplation.

"Alayna," a gentle voice called out.

Alayna's head snapped up, her eyes meeting those of a tall, athletic man standing at the doorway. Clad in a simple shirt, he exuded an air of calm that contrasted the chaos she had just experienced.

Dafa, her co-worker, stepped into the office with a gentle, sympathetic expression on his face. "May I come in?" he asked softly as if he could sense the weight of emotions that burdened Alayna.

She nodded, gesturing for him to enter. "Yes, please."

Concern dripped from Dafa's words as he spoke again, "Are you okay?"

Alayna took a moment to gather herself, inhaling deeply to steady her racing heart. She appreciated his genuine care and empathy amidst the turmoil she had faced.

"It hasn't been an easy day, that's for sure," she responded, mustering a faint smile to convey her gratitude for his understanding.

Dafa nodded, walking over to Alayna's desk and settling into an empty chair nearby. Placing a stack of documents on the table, he looked at her intently.

"Just remember, Alayna, I'm always here for you," he said, sincerity lacing his words as he gazed into her eyes.

Alayna's voice softened as she replied, "Thank you." Her attention shifted to the papers before her. "Is this the document I requested?"

A glimmer of excitement flickered across Dafa's face. "Yes, it is, Alayna," he replied eagerly. "The latest statistical data you asked for. I hope it proves helpful in shaping the news."

Gratitude welled up within Alayna as she nodded appreciatively. Her eyes scanned the neatly arranged graphs, tables, and insightful notes contained within the document. It held the potential to become the backbone of her story.

"Thank you, Dafa," she expressed sincerely. "This will be invaluable in verifying the information I'll be sharing later in the news."

Dafa's contented smile spoke volumes about his happiness in being able to contribute positively. "There's no need to thank me, Alayna. I'm more than happy to help. If you need any more data or information, just let me know."

Alayna's voice softened with appreciation as she replied, "Thank you, Dafa. You truly are amazing." A gentle smile graced her lips, acknowledging the genuine support he had offered in her time of need.

Suddenly, Dafa's question sliced through the air, laden with genuine concern. "Have you eaten yet?"

Alayna shook her head.

An idea sparked in Dafa's mind, his enthusiasm tangible as he spoke. "Hm... Come on, let's go to the rooftop!"

"What for?" she asked, a hint of confusion appearing in her expression.

With sparkling eyes, Dafa replied, "Just come with me."