Chapter 376

Everyone in the conference room exchanged awkward glances, unsure what to say. Most of the people here had been with IM since their scrappy storefront days, and several had actually been mentored directly by Martin Palmer. So when Martin talked in meetings, his words usually carried the weight of consensus. But today, Celeste Harper had shot down his proposal right in front of everyone—which, frankly, was a slap in the face. Back when you’re just another guy in the crowd, criticism doesn’t hit too hard. But once you’re used to people nodding along with everything you say, being publicly dismissed? That stings. By the end of the meeting, Martin looked like he could chew nails. "Alright, everyone’s dismissed. Martin, stay a minute. I need a word," Celeste said coolly. At her words, the crowd scattered like they'd been set free. No sooner had the door shut than a loud thud echoed from the room, followed by voices raised in argument. The tension was thick enough to hear through the walls.