He barely looked up. “Sure, honey. Good luck.”
That familiar sting of disappointment hit, but I pushed it down. Today wasn’t about seeking approval from someone who’d made it clear I’d never earn it. Today was about proving to myself that I deserved the success I’d worked for.
The presentation exceeded every expectation. The clients were engaged, asking insightful questions, nodding along with my recommendations. By the end, the CEO was shaking my hand firmly. “Miss Foster, you’ve clearly done your homework. We’ll be in touch very soon.”
After they left, Victoria pulled me aside, eyes bright with excitement. “That was excellent work, Audrey. I think we’ve got them. Take the rest of the day off—you’ve earned it.”
I checked my watch: 2:30 PM. My parents wouldn’t be expecting me for hours. I could surprise them with the good news, maybe even suggest we celebrate with dinner out—my treat, obviously, though they’d never acknowledge it as such.
