Anastasia
I slept through almost the entire Sunday. After a week of endless stress, sleepless nights, and the constant chase against deadlines, my body had finally given in, forcing me to rest. By the time Monday arrived, I felt lighter, though my nerves were buzzing with anticipation.
The launch day.
Every member of the team had gathered early, anxiety hanging in the air like a storm cloud. Hours later, when the numbers started coming in, the cloud cleared. The launch didn't just meet expectations; it skyrocketed. Charts flashed across the big screen, showing exponential growth, orders flooding in from every corner of the market. Phones buzzed endlessly with congratulations, partnerships, and investors' calls.
Happiness became overwhelming, and the room exploded into cheers. My teammates laughed, some even teared up, and a chorus of "We did it!" echoed in the office. High-fives were exchanged, hugs pulled tight, and for a fleeting moment, all their sacrifices felt worth it.
Then the biggest surprise arrived.
The company's CEO himself appeared on the giant screen in the conference room. His crisp suit and calm authority silenced the entire hall in an instant.
"Congratulations, everyone," he said, voice steady, commanding yet warm. "Today marks a new beginning for this company, and it wouldn't have been possible without your tireless efforts. Next week, we will be holding a success party to celebrate this milestone. Every single one of you is invited. During the event, we will also announce the promoted individuals who have shown exceptional dedication. Until then, rest, recover, and be proud of yourselves."
The feed ended, and the office erupted again, but this time with louder, wilder cheers. Excitement rippled through the ladies, their voices rising like a flock of birds.
"Oh my God, what are you wearing for the party?" one whispered with a blush.
"I'm booking my salon today. Nails, hair, everything has to be perfect."
"Couture, darling! It's the CEO's party…this is once in a lifetime!"
Giggles filled the room as they exchanged tips on dresses, heels, perfumes, even skincare routines, their voices melting into dreamy sighs as though they'd fallen in love all over again.
I sat at my desk, trying not to roll my eyes. Oof… parties. How exhausting. Lights, noise, fake smiles, and uncomfortable heels… I'd rather stay in with a book and tea.
My lips curled in the faintest smirk at my own thoughts, but before I could retreat into my bubble, I saw Rachel looking at me with disdain. Oh! For the love of God, what is wrong with this grown-ass woman?
Leaning elegantly against her chair, perfectly styled as always. For a moment, she didn't speak; she didn't need to. Her displeasure was written clearly in the arch of her brows and the curl of her lips. The contrast between the room's joyous atmosphere and Rachel's simmering glare was striking.
Of course, she hates this, I thought dryly. She probably wanted to be the center of the celebration, not watch me sitting here breathing the same air. Sorry, girl, but since we share the same space, we gotta share the same oxygen, unless you settle on Mars and get yourself an alien boyfriend. Oh goodness, this is a perfect idea. A match made in heaven. I can't help but giggle at my own invented idea. Shut it! Anastasia.
Rachel finally broke her silence, her voice dripping with a sweetness that tasted like poison.
"Don't get too comfortable, Anastasia. Launches come and go. Let's see if you can survive what comes after."
Her words weren't loud enough for others to notice, but sharp enough to pierce my calm.
I didn't flinch. I met Rachel's eyes, lifted my chin slightly, and smiled, not the warm, genuine smile I gave my teammates, but the cool, indifferent one that said: You don't scare me, Rachel.
Rachel's jaw tightened ever so slightly before she turned away, joining the group of women giggling about dresses. I watched her leave, a flicker of unease creeping in despite my outward composure.
Rachel isn't just jealous. She's dangerous. And I can already feel she's not done with me.