Hidden truth, intricate love

As the project entered its tense mid-term phase, the conflict between Lin Yue and Chen Wan intensified. Chen Wan seemed to be constantly observing Lin Yue's work. Whenever she proposed a new plan or adjustment, she was the first to point out minor issues, even directly overruling her decisions in all-hands meetings. Although Lin Yue had been prepared, the constant questioning and criticism still left her feeling stressed and frustrated.

During a progress meeting, Lin Yue mentioned in her briefing that, to improve project efficiency, she planned to temporarily redirect part of the budget to optimize promotion channels and analytical tools. However, as soon as she finished speaking, Chen Wan rudely interrupted her.

"Lin Yue, are you sure a temporary budget increase is a wise choice?" Chen Wan said coldly, her tone full of doubt and contempt. "The current budget is already tight, and any additional expenditure will only increase the burden on the project. Have you considered the possible consequences?"

Lin Yue's heart tightened, knowing Chen Wan was signaling to the higher-ups that her decision was irrational. She remained calm, trying to keep her voice steady. "Manager Chen, precisely because the project budget is tight, I believe that rationally allocating resources at key milestones can improve efficiency and increase the chances of project success. To mitigate risk, I've also designed a backup plan to temporarily cut non-essential expenses in the event of a budget shortfall."

After hearing this, Chen Wan scoffed, her tone tinged with disdain. "Lin Yue, have you ever actually done a budget analysis? Project management isn't just about coming up with a good-looking strategy; it requires pragmatism and thoroughness. Your so-called backup plan is just a cover-up, in my opinion."

Lin Yue maintained a calm demeanor, but a hint of irritation lingered within her. She knew Chen Wan wasn't targeting the proposal itself, but rather attempting to disparage her abilities. She took a deep breath, trying not to let her emotions cloud her judgment. She replied calmly, "I'll further refine the budget analysis to ensure all decisions are within reasonable limits. If you have any concerns, we can discuss them in detail."

Chen Wan gave her a cold look and said calmly, "I hope so. After all, this project is no joke. It can't be solved with an imaginary 'good solution'."

After the meeting, Lin Yue felt heavy-hearted. She felt like every step she took was like walking on a knife's edge, vulnerable to being overturned at any moment by a single word from Chen Wan, even bringing the entire project to a standstill. She tried to calm herself, but Chen Wan's sarcastic remarks lingered in her mind. To calm herself down, she stayed alone in her office, repeatedly reviewing every detail of her plan, trying to find a new path forward.

That night, Lin Yue worked overtime until very late, and she was the only one left in the office. Just as she was busy sorting through documents, her phone screen lit up. It was a message from Li Hao.

"Lin Yue, are you done with work? What would you like to eat tonight? I'll be waiting for you nearby."

Lin Yue looked at her phone, her heart warming. She'd been exhausted from the project lately, and Li Hao's concern always helped her relax at crucial moments. She replied, "Still working overtime, just finished. Give me five minutes, I'll be right down."

A few minutes later, Lin Yue dragged her exhausted body out of the company gate and saw Li Hao standing by the car with a gentle smile on his face. As she approached, Li Hao looked at her with concern and asked softly, "Are you exhausted today? Is Chen Wan still giving you trouble?"

Lin Yue nodded and sighed. "Yeah, she rejected my plan again during today's meeting and questioned my budget management ability. It feels like she's always targeting me. No matter what I do, she can always find a loophole."

Li Hao frowned, a hint of heartache in his eyes, but then he gently held her hand and whispered, "Lin Yue, don't doubt yourself because of Chen Wan's doubts. Her attitude may be harsh, but you have to believe that the true success or failure of the project lies in your decision-making and execution, not her difficulties."

Lin Yue took a deep breath, and as she listened to Li Hao's words, the depression in her heart gradually eased. She forced a smile and said, "I know, but her sarcasm can be really unbearable sometimes. I try to stay calm, but when I face her, I feel my confidence being crushed."

Li Hao looked at her gently and soothed her, "Lin Yue, the strong will always encounter obstacles, especially when demonstrating outstanding performance. The more accomplished a person is, the more likely they are to be envied and questioned. What you need to do is not to prove yourself to Chen Wan, but to use your achievements to show everyone your strength."

Lin Yue listened, and Li Hao's words ignited a sense of determination in her heart. She nodded gently: "You are right. I should focus on the project itself and not let her doubts disturb my mood."

Li Hao smiled slightly and gently hugged her, his tone filled with gentle encouragement: "As long as you persevere, I believe you will lead this project to success. I will always be by your side, and no matter what difficulties we encounter, we will face them together."

Lin Yue gradually relaxed, feeling a peace of mind she had never felt before. She knew that although the road ahead was full of challenges, with Li Hao's company and encouragement, she could calmly face every difficulty.

With Li Hao's support, Lin Yue began to re-examine her plan. She meticulously reviewed every data point and detail, even contacting the finance department to reconfirm the budget's feasibility. She understood that only by striving for excellence could she truly achieve success.

At the meeting the next day, Lin Yue prepared a detailed financial analysis report, clearly explaining every expense and the logic behind the data. This time, Chen Wan again raised questions: "Lin Yue, this financial report does have some improvements, but I still feel there are significant risks in this area, especially when allocating non-budgetary funds."

Lin Yue sneered inwardly at this, but remained composed. She smiled faintly and replied firmly, "Manager Chen, I understand your concerns. I've included a contingency budget in my report to ensure the project can proceed smoothly in any unexpected circumstances. I've also designed a third backup plan. If the budget exceeds the upper limit, we can immediately adjust expenditures to avoid risks."

The conference room was silent. Chen Wan stared at Lin Yue, trying to detect a hint of fear on her face. However, Lin Yue's eyes were calm and confident, unwavering. She had made all the necessary preparations, and no matter what Chen Wan said, it would not easily break her.

Seeing this, Chen Wan didn't say anything more. A hint of reluctance flashed across her face, but she ultimately remained silent. Lin Yue knew that she had finally taken the initiative at this moment, and all this confidence came from the encouragement and strength given by Li Hao.