The following days were a whirlwind for Wen. The final phase of her project consumed her focus, every moment spent refining calculations and verifying data. The stakes felt monumental, and she could almost feel Mei Ling's watchful eyes on her, an unspoken reminder of the standard she was expected to meet. The only thing that tempered her stress was Kai, their late-night phone conversations a source of comfort as she navigated her escalating responsibilities.
One evening, as she was preparing to head home, Mei Ling appeared by her cubicle. Her gaze was calm, but Wen could sense the anticipation beneath her composed demeanor.
"Liu Wen," Mei Ling began, her voice measured. "I wanted to commend you on your dedication. I can see that you've put in countless hours on this project, and I appreciate the level of commitment."
Wen felt a surge of pride, a small smile escaping before she could stop herself. "Thank you, Ms. Mei. I'm grateful for the opportunity."
Mei Ling nodded, her gaze assessing. "The client presentation is tomorrow morning. It will be your chance to represent the team and demonstrate what you've achieved."
Wen's stomach flipped. She hadn't anticipated that she would be presenting. She swallowed, nerves flickering through her, but Mei Ling's gaze remained firm, as if silently reassuring her.
"You're ready, Liu. Show them what you're capable of," Mei Ling said before walking away.
Wen felt a mixture of excitement and anxiety settle within her as she left the office. She'd prepared for weeks, but now the reality of presenting in front of the client—people who had the power to decide the future of her project—made her feel vulnerable. That night, as she lay in bed, she texted Kai.
"Big presentation tomorrow. Just a little nervous 😅"
Kai's response came quickly. "You've got this. Remember, you're there because you earned it. And if you need a confidence boost, I'll be right there, cheering you on (in spirit)."
His words brought a smile to her lips, the warmth of his support filling her with a renewed determination. She drifted off to sleep, holding onto the knowledge that she wasn't alone, that someone believed in her, even if her path was strewn with challenges.