The corridor outside the conference room was quieter than usual.
People spoke in lower voices. They walked at their usual pace. Doors closed softly as everyone returned to their daily routine after a decision had been made.
Arianne walked without hurry.
The meeting ended as expected. No one raised their voice or showed any opposition. Marcus Hale spoke once, but it was too late and too defensive. After that, he did not speak again. The rest of the attendees followed the process. They recorded votes, issued directives, and entered the results into the system without a hitch.
People moved past her without hesitation. A junior executive inclined his head briefly before continuing on. An assistant adjusted a tablet and changed direction. Someone laughed near the elevators, then lowered their voice.
No one stopped or bothered her.
She reached the end of the hall and slowed.
