Chapter 61

The next morning greeted me with relentless fatigue that clung to my bones. The unfamiliar hotel room felt both too cold and stifling, but the urgency of the day ahead banished any hopes of more rest. As I groggily prepared for the day, the weight of the upcoming meeting with potential collaborators and partners bore down on me.

David’s timely knock on my door startled me. He stood there, dressed sharply, a picture of readiness that starkly contrasted with my disheveled state. “Laura, we can’t afford to be late. The meeting is crucial, and punctuality is key. Get ready quickly.”

I managed a weak nod, my mind still foggy from the lack of sleep. David’s stern expression softened as he spoke, “I know it’s early, but we need to make a strong impression. You’ve got this, Laura.”

Once alone in my room, the shower offered a brief respite, but my thoughts were a jumble of anxiety and fatigue. Feeling the weight of the day on my shoulders, I decided to call Vince. The phone