Scaling Up

Chris

I leaned back in my chair, trying to mentally prepare myself for what was sure to be an unpleasant encounter. Caroline had a way of making even the simplest conversations complicated, and I wasn't in the mood for whatever game she was about to play. I rubbed a hand over my face, already feeling the tension creeping up my spine. The door creaked open, and I straightened up, pushing down the irritation that threatened to rise as she walked in, her presence immediately filling the room with an air of expectancy. This wasn't going to be easy, but I needed to get through it.

Moments later, Caroline walked into my office, her stride confident as ever. She looked the same—poised, polished, every hair in place—but there was something different in her eyes. Desperation, fear maybe? I wasn't sure, and honestly, I didn't care.