Chapter 35

Sutton had barely taken three steps into the development room when someone let out a long, theatrical whistle.

Then there was clapping. Not sarcastic slow clapping, but actual clapping. A solid round of applause. Everyone was watching her.

Sutton paused in the doorway, blinking at the strange yet enthusiastic reception. “Did I win an award I don’t know about? Is someone behind me holding a pizza box? What’s going on?”

“Way to go, Warner!” Kevin called out, grinning. The same Kevin who’d grilled her on isolation protocols just days ago. “Head of cybersecurity!” Tyler added, giving her an approving nod. “It’s about damn time this place recognized actual talent.”

Great. Extra great. Sutton blinked, taken aback by the unexpected show of support. She’d anticipated jealousy, resentment, or at the very least, suspicion about how she’d landed the promotion. “Thanks,” she managed, attempting to smile through her bewilderment. “But I, uh... haven’t officially accepted yet.”