The Red String Between Us: Part III Eternal Thread

第29章 Subtle Battles

     Eden settled at her desk, reviewing Riston's onboarding reports, when she felt Mallory's eyes on her. She shook off the tension, focusing on the documents in front of her, but Mallory's presence seemed almost magnetic—like a shadow hovering, waiting for an opening.

"Eden," Mallory began, leaning lightly against the corner of the desk, "I noticed Riston's projections for the client in Tokyo are aggressive. Ambitious, yes, but do you think they might be... overly optimistic, considering past patterns?" Her tone was smooth, professional, but the underlying implication was sharp.

Eden glanced at Riston, who shifted uncomfortably, unsure whether to interject. She maintained her calm, answering evenly. "Ambitious projections are exactly what we need to challenge the team and push growth. I've reviewed them thoroughly, and I'm confident in Riston's approach."

Mallory's lips curved into a subtle, knowing smile. "Of course. I just thought, given the previous manager's issues... it might be prudent to consider contingency plans. We wouldn't want to be caught off guard."

Eden nodded politely, masking the prickling unease Mallory's words caused. Kenji, observing quietly from the conference room entrance, raised an eyebrow but said nothing. His presence, however, added a layer of scrutiny that Mallory seemed fully aware of.

The day stretched on with Mallory occasionally interjecting, always with a hint of doubt or caution disguised as professional concern. Each remark, though subtle, chipped away at Eden's focus, forcing her to navigate the conversation carefully while maintaining authority over Riston and the project.

By late afternoon, Eden finally excused herself, the tension still lingering like a weight on her shoulders. She returned home, her mind buzzing with both work and the subtle dynamics in the office. After a long bath, she settled on the couch and FaceTimed Claire.

"Hey, girl," Claire greeted warmly. "How's everything? How was the engagement party planning?"

Eden smiled, though a shadow lingered in her expression. "It went well. The engagement party in Hokkaido is being finalized. Listen after all you guys did in Big Sur, if you can make it by all means please come but if you cant I understand, it was planned quickly and I wont hold it against you.  I feel like all ive done since moving here is Trave!—" she paused, smirking slightly, "and you might need to bring your Hollywood producer along. Don't tempt me with too much gossip."

Claire laughed. "Oh, you know I might! he's always so busy, But you know I'll try. Spill, though—what's going on? You sound a little tense."

Eden leaned back, running a hand through her hair. "Mallory. She's... subtle, but it's wearing me down. She keeps trying to undermine decisions, questioning choices in front of Riston, making it seem like I'm missing something."

Claire's eyes softened with sympathy. "I hate that for you, Eden. It's going to get exhausting."

Eden nodded, sighing softly. "Exactly. I understand her role, I really do—but it's going to get old fast. I just... wish I could address it directly without it turning into a spectacle."

Claire reached out through the screen with a playful grin. "You'll handle it, don't worry. You always do. Just don't let her steal your peace. And hey—focus on the fun stuff too. Engagement, planning, Kenji—don't let her rain on your parade."

Eden smiled, a little lighter now. "Thanks, Claire. You're right. I just needed to vent a little. I'll regroup tomorrow—get back in control."

The call ended, and Eden set her phone aside, taking a deep breath. She glanced at her ring once more before turning in for the night.