“Outstanding work, Mariana,” the vice president said, reaching his hand across the table.

“Your leadership this quarter set a regional record for company stability.”

I shook his hand and felt the solid weight of professional respect settle back into the center of my chest.

As the executives collected their things and filed out into the hall, Brenda came up beside me with a small, knowing smile.

“Your admin calendar is locked through the end of the week,” Brenda said quietly.

“Nobody reaches your line unless I personally say so.”