Chapter 2, 'A Helping Hand'
She made her way back to her office while ignoring the lingering stares until she could hide away.
Sarah closed her door behind her. She leaned against it briefly
Taking deep breaths.
Her desk had become sanctuary she'd use to hide while taking time off.
She collapsed onto the chair spinning around to stare blank-facedly outside.
How humiliating was it?
It would be some time before she could face anyone.
She had done something so out of character.
Her phone rang interrupting her self-pity.
She picked it up hesitantly.
"What?" She snapped irritated.
“Sarah? Is everything okay?” Sarah felt a wave of relief wash over as she recognised her best friend Emily's voice.
Emily worked on the other side of town.
They met up almost every evening since they both had moved across Europe to chase their careers.
When Sarah went over the day’s embarrassing event she let out an uncontrollable laugh.
There was silence which lasted at least three seconds before Emily’s voice came through softly,
"Do come join us tonight? The whole team will be gathered together."
Although Sarah initially wanted nothing more than to curl into her covers and pretend this day never happened and ignore those mockery looks,
She thought about her promise towards the task ahead in helping the marketing efforts for an international project
Sarah agreed
"I’ll meet you all there," Sarah said after taking another deep breath.
She spent few moments gathering herself before heading out, feeling somewhat restored by Emily’s comforting words.
Sarah felt ready to face the world again but still nervous
How was she going to hold her head up after this embarrassing incident?
Sadness took over quickly
She decided it would be best if she could find some support during these tough times.
Chapter 3, 'Strength Through Uncertainty'
The bar was already buzzing with conversation and laughter as Sarah pushed through the doors. She spotted Emily waving at her from across the room and made her way towards her friend. The other colleagues were scattered throughout the bar—some talking loudly, others more reserved—and there seemed to be an underlying sense of shared relief that this meeting was finally being held
Sarah could not hide her eyes any longer but it would have taken courage.
“Hey,” Emily said softly, wrapping Sarah in a comforting hug.
"Let us get something to drink," Emily gave Sarah and herself an excuse while walking towards a less crowded corner
Sarah ordered wine
“Thanks again,” Sarah murmured, taking her wine glass.
“How do I get through today?”
Emily replied
"I was thinking about how far we have come."
Sarah wanted to change her mood
There were several people standing around them but their conversation was too private.
She took another sip before glancing back
"Did anyone see me fall?
Emily responded quickly
"No one saw. The crowd was there."
Sarah wanted Emily to talk about it because if she didn't get over this moment.
But she knew how quickly things would be forgotten.
So while chatting with everyone at the bar Sarah began to feel calmer.
Suddenly all attention turned towards Sarah .
She had felt self-conscious initially but could not ignore her colleagues
The meeting started promptly.
“I think we have an innovative marketing strategy here,” Sarah addressed the group while standing up on a chair.
"We need something bold, something eye-catching."
"I want our campaigns to leave a lasting impression—like ourself did today"
Many agreed quietly including their boss who smiled softly before responding:
"Go ahead"
He encouraged with eyes glimmering.