Mason stared at her, waiting for her to tremble as usual before him. But she didn't. Instead, she met his glare head-on, surprising her husband.
"I don't mean to be disrespectful or challenge your authority, President Harrington, but I believe everyone here, no matter their position today, once started as a newbie. You've all worked your way up to earn the roles you now hold."
Following Anastasia's response, the room stirred uncomfortably.
The board members exchanged glances, some nodding subtly as her words struck a chord.
Then she continued...
"I simply ask for the chance to prove myself. Let me present this project, and you can decide its merit based on the outcome."
There was a pause, then murmurs of agreement spread across the room.
"She's got a point."
"Well, it wouldn't hurt to listen."
"She seems confident enough."
