Let Her Prove Herself

Dashiell Vanthorn, the CEO of the company, settled into his elegant ergonomic chair, where he had a recorded footage of the soft launching. He nodded with satisfaction as he observed the positive reactions from the attendees through the monitor camera.

The project had been a significant undertaking for the company. Despite not attending the event in person, he was keenly monitoring the proceedings, appreciating the hard work that had gone into making it a triumph.

Getting a bit bored, he decided to shut off the monitor camera at the exact time when Trisha was getting ready to start her presentation. That quick glimpse of the event was good enough for him. Being the company's CEO, he wasn't too keen on making public appearances. It got him thinking, what's the point of having all those high-paying leadership roles if they can't step in for him?

He leaned back in his leather chair, his gaze now fixed on a digital report displayed on his high-end monitor. It was a comprehensive update on Cerulean Cove, a project that held a special place in his heart. His fingers tapped the touchscreen with precision as he reviewed the project's progress, his expression a blend of discerning analysis and quiet satisfaction.

As he delved into the details, his assistant, Robert Thompson, stood attentively before him. He was a seasoned professional, known for his impeccable organizational skills and unwavering dedication. 

"Mr. Vanthorn, I apologize for the late report, but there's a matter that I believe you should be informed about immediately. It's regarding a certain project within the company."

Dashiell leaned forward, his curiosity piqued. "Go on. What's going on with the project?"

"Sir," Robert began as he hesitated briefly, "I've recently received a detailed report from Mark Petrunich regarding the significant meeting that took place earlier today. During the meeting, they delved into the progress of several projects that have been contributing positively to our company's success. However, it appears that the discussions took an unexpected turn."

"Tell me, what happened at the meeting?"

"Well, sir, it appears that there was a discussion about our deserted project in the Azure Bay island."

Dashiell raised an eyebrow, his curiosity growing. "Azure Bay island?" He paused for a moment, recalling the troublesome project that had been a significant drain on the company's funds. It was indeed a serious issue.

"Sir, our holding company owns dozens of projects but we've never had such a nightmare in that project. Because of this deserted project we're losing money all over the place."

Concerned about the situation, Dashiell posed a question, "Can you give me more details about this particular project? What exactly went wrong, and why has it become such a financial burden for us? Everything was going well when I visited that area two years ago."

"We've invested a significant amount of money in developing the infrastructure for the project on Azure Bay Island and we need to investigate further. However, despite our efforts, when we personally inspected the site last year, we found that there was no infrastructure to speak of, and there's virtually nothing to develop there. It's become a sunk cost, and continuing with it seems futile."

"So, who is currently overseeing this project on Azure Bay Island?"

"Over the years, there have been many persons in charge of this project, but none have stayed for long. Currently, the position is held by... umm, I'm sorry, I seem to have forgotten his name." Robert paused a moment and opened his journal as he continued, "Mitchell, yes, Jeremy Mitchell."

Dashiell followed up with a question, "What kind of experience does Jeremy Mitchell have in managing projects like this one?"

"As it turns out," Robert replied, "he doesn't have much experience in project management. In fact, his background was as an ordinary worker with no prior experience in overseeing projects of this scale."

Dashiell probed further, "If he lacked the relevant experience, why was he promoted to oversee this project in the first place?"

"The truth is, Azure Bay Island is a challenging location, and none of our experienced personnel were willing to go there, no matter the compensation. Jeremy was the only one with a college degree, and he was appointed to the position after his predecessor ran away, unable to handle the difficulties of the project."

"So what's the solution from the meeting?"

"Mark's report also indicates that a decision was made to transfer a certain person to that project, and it was suggested that this move could potentially deal with some ongoing challenges."

"Who's the person? What challenges are they referring to?"

"The person he mentioned is Miss Trisha Lockhart, one of our landscape architects. The challenges they referred to primarily revolve around the project's consistent financial losses and struggles to turn a profit. It seems the company is looking to make a significant change regarding this project, and Ms. Lockhart's transfer is part of that plan."

Dashiell's reluctance was evident as he processed the information. He furrowed his brow as he said, "Trisha Lockhart, you say? That woman again? Why on earth would they choose to send her, of all people, to such a secluded and challenging area? It seems rather unusual."

"It appears, sir, that the decision to transfer Ms. Lockhart to Azure Bay Island was proposed by her manager, Damon Cooper. He argued that it would be a strategic move to deal with the ongoing issues with the project. The company's leadership seems to have endorsed the idea."

Dashiell shook his head unconsciously and brushed off the idea. "No. I can't agree with that decision," he stated firmly. "Sending a woman to Azure Bay Island, of all places, doesn't sit right with me."

Robert hesitated for a moment before responding, "But, sir, it's been discussed thoroughly in the meeting, and the decision has already been made by the higher-ups. They believe it's the best course of action for the company."

Dashiell leaned back in his chair, deep in thought. As he contemplated the decision that had been made, an idea suddenly flashed in his mind. It was as if a light bulb had illuminated his thoughts, and he began to see a potential solution to the problem that had been bothering him.

A spark of determination flickered in his eyes as he considered the implications of his new plan. It was time for him to take action and make a difference. "You know what, I think it's time for me to head down there and sort out the mess myself."

Robert was taken aback as he said, "What? Sir, are you sure about this? Going to Azure Bay Island personally?"

"Yes, I'm sure. It's time to deal with this issue firsthand. I can't let it continue like this any longer," Dashiell replied confidently.

Robert probed further with concern. "Sir, I just want to confirm that you're absolutely sure about this. You're aware that the secluded island poses many challenges and obstacles, right?"

"Don't worry, it's not my first visit there. Besides, I'll disguise myself as a project leader as ever before. I understand the challenges but I believe it's necessary. Sometimes, you have to dive headfirst into the storm to find a way out. I'm ready to face whatever comes my way on that island."

"I get it. But, sir, what about Ms. Lockhart?" Robert insisted.

"Well, Rob, let her go there and prove herself. I'll see and support whatever she can do, and decide what's best for the company."

Thinking about it, he couldn't shake the feeling of excitement. With a sly smile, he muttered to himself, "Well, well, this ought to be a hoot! Let's see what this old spinster can whip up this time. I've never actually met her in person, but I'd heard through the grapevine that she's got her fans in the company. Maybe she'll surprise us all once more with this Azure Bay project."

On top of that, his life had turned as exciting as watching paint dry. It had become rather dull and monotonous. He was practically itching for a dose of adventure and thrill, a sprinkle of drama to spice up his otherwise snooze-worthy existence.