CHAPTER FIFTY–FOUR–A Choice That Changes Everything
was a place where As Laura made her way to the R&D department on the third floor, she couldn’t help but feel a sense of awe. This wa cutting–edge technology was born, where ideas became reality. And now, she was a part of it.
The elevator doors opened, revealing a bustling open–plan office. Workstations were arranged in clusters, with low partitions allowing for easy collaboration. Along the perimeter were glass–walled meeting rooms and private offices. The air hummed with the sound of computers and quiet conversations.
As Laura stepped out, her eyes scanning the room for any sign of where she should go, a woman approached her with purposeful strides. This had to be Bo Chen, the department supervisor.
Bo was a striking figure, her posture ram–rod straight and her gaze sharp behind thick–rimmed glasses. Her black hair was pulled back into a severe bun, not a single strand out of place. She wore a charcoal grey suit that seemed to emphasize her no–nonsense
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“Laura McKenna?” Bo’s voice was clipped and efficient.
Laura nodded, extending her hand. “Yes, that’s me. It’s nice to meet you, Ms. Chen.”
Bo shook her hand briefly. “Welcome to Sivarra Tech. I trust you found the building without issue?”
“Yes, thank you. The directions were very clear.”
Bonodded curtly. “Good. Time is our most valuable resource here, Ms. McKenna. We can’t afford to waste it on trivialities. Follow me. I’ll give you a tour of the facilities,”
As they walked, Bo launched into a rapid–fire explanation of the department’s layout and current projects. “To your left is our main development area. Each cluster is working on a different aspect of our latest product line. We’re currently focusing on improving the efficiency of our quantum computing chips.”
Laura’s eyes widened. “Quantum computing? That’s fascinating. Are you using superconducting circuits or ion traps?”
Bo raised an eyebrow, the first sign of anything other than stern efficiency. “We’re exploring both avenues, actually. I’m pleased to see you’re familiar with the field. Ryan mentioned your background in theoretical physics, but I prefer to reserve judgment until I see
results.”
They passed by a series of glass–walled rooms filled with complex–looking equipment. “These are our testing labs,” Bo explained. We run simulations and stress tests here before moving to physical prototypes. You’ll need to complete additional security clearance before you can access these areas.”
As they continued the tour, Bo outlined her expectations in no uncertain terms. “We maintain a rigorous schedule here, Ms. McKenna I expect all team members to be punctual, efficient, and focused. We have daily stand–up meetings at 9 AM sharp. Weekly progress reports are due every Friday by 5 PM. Any delays or issues should be communicated immediately.”
Laura nodded, trying to keep up with the barrage of information. “Of course. I’m used to working under tight deadlines and high- pressure envirotuments.”
Bo’s expression remained impassive “Good. Because make no mistake, the pressure here is significant. We’re not just competing with other companies, we’re racing against technological limitations themselves. Every day counts.”
They stopped in front of a cluster of desks. “This will be your workstation,” Bo said. “You’ll be assisting Larry Goldstein with design work for our current project. I expect you to get up to speed quickly. Any questions?TM
Laura shook her head, feeling slightly overwhelmed but determined not to show it. “No, I think I’ve got it. Thank you for the tour, Ms.
Chen.
Bonodded. “Very well. I’ll introduce you to the team, and then you can get started. Remember, Ms. McKenna, I run a tight ship here. I hope you’re ready to prove your worth.”
With that, Bo led Laura to meet her new colleagues, leaving her with the distinct impression that she’d just been thrown into the deep end of a very competitive pool.
Bo led Laura to a nearby cluster of desks, where four people were engrossed in their work. As they approached, heads began to turn, curiosity evident on their faces.
“Everyone, this is Laura McKenna, our new team member,” Bo announced. “Laura, meet your colleagues.”
A jovial–looking man with a salt–and–pepper beard was the first to stand, his face breaking into a warm smile. “Larry Goldstein,” he said, extending his hand. “Welcome aboard, Laura! Don’t let Bo’s drill sergeant routine scare you off. We’re actually a fun bunch…
PUAPTERBILTVA206 – A Cheer Tluit Changes Everything
when she’s not looking.”
Bo rolled her eyes but didn’t comment. Laura shook Larry’s hand, immediately feeling more at ease. “Thanks, Larry. I’m looking forward to working with you.”
”
Before Laura could say more, a young woman with long dark hair and bright eyes practically bounced out of her chair. “Oh my gosh, hi! I’m Zaya Patel. It’s so great to meet you!” She grabbed Laura’s hand in both of hers, shaking it enthusiastically. “We’ve been so excited to have someone new join the team. Where are you from? What’s your background? Do you like sushi? There’s this amazing place down the street we could go for lunch!”
Laura blinked, slightly taken aback by the barrage of questions. “Uh, hi Zaya. It’s nice to meet you too. I’m from=”
“Ms. Patel,” Bo interrupted, her tone sharp. “Perhaps we could save the interrogation for a more appropriate time?”
Zaya’s smile dimmed slightly. “Right, sorry Bo. Got carried away there.”
Bo turned to the remaining two team members. A striking blonde woman with ice–blue eyes and a perpetual frown barely looked up from her computer. “Kira Volkov,” she said curtly, before returning to her work
Laura felt a chill run down her spine at the cold reception. “Nice to meet you, Kira,” she said, trying to keep her tone friendly.
The last team member, a quiet man with glasses and tousled brown hair, offered Laura a shy smile. “Aiden O’Connor,” he said softly.”
Welcome to the team, Laura.”
“Thanks, Aiden,” Laura replied, returning his smile.
Bo nodded, apparently satisfied with the introductions. “Laura will be assisting Larry with the design work for Project Quantum. I trust you’ll all make her feel welcome and help her get up to speed quickly. Now, back to work, everyone.”
As Bo strode away, Zaya immediately turned back to Laura. “So, as I was saying, there’s this great sushi place-”
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Larry chuckled, “maybe give the poor girl a chance to catch her breath first?”
Laura smiled gratefully at Larry. “It’s okay. I appreciate the warm welcome, Zaya. To answer your questions: I’m originally from Boston, my background is in theoretical physics, and yes, I do like sushi.”
Zaya’s eyes lit up. “Theoretical physics? That’s so cool! You must be, like, super smart. No wonder Ryan hired you personally.”
At the mention of Ryan’s name, Laura noticed Kira’s head snap up, her eyes narrowing
“Ryan hired you?” Kira’s voice was cold and sharp. “How… interesting.”
