Mitchell's voice cut through the office tension like a blade. "Don't bother. I'm done with DataPulse for good." He strode toward the exit without a backward glance, his footsteps echoing his finality.

Veronica valued skilled professionals above all else. She glanced at Dario, searching his expression for guidance. He responded with a subtle shake of his head, silently cautioning her against pursuing the matter further.

Dario understood Mitchell's exceptional abilities and genuinely regretted losing such talent. Yet from their initial encounter, he'd observed how Mitchell's feelings for Niall influenced his professional judgment. While personal emotions were typically beyond Dario's concern, he couldn't overlook how those feelings had compromised Mitchell's objectivity.

Mitchell's hostile reaction to Veronica's appointment lacked any professional foundation. Such behavior crossed unacceptable boundaries within their workplace culture.

The situation grew more complex considering their classified government collaboration on Echo's core technology. The confidentiality agreements they'd signed made any disclosure of Veronica's true background impossible.

Mitchell's emotional investment in Niall had clearly impaired his reasoning. Even if Veronica demonstrated extraordinary capabilities in the coming weeks, Dario suspected Mitchell would remain stubbornly skeptical of her qualifications.

He would undoubtedly maintain that Niall possessed superior skills. The inevitable reality was that Veronica would eventually eclipse Mitchell's contributions entirely.

Should Mitchell perceive favoritism toward Veronica, he risked becoming a liability that competitors could exploit. Such manipulation could destroy his career while inflicting substantial damage on DataPulse's interests.

Veronica felt grateful that Dario grasped these underlying complexities.

Dario cleared his throat, addressing the room's occupants. "Despite Ver's lack of formal doctoral credentials, I guarantee her technical expertise exceeds industry standards."

The office staff exchanged uncertain looks, their confusion evident. They knew Mitchell had previously endorsed a colleague to Dario, but his vague explanations had left them without crucial context.

Similar circumstances had unfolded the previous year involving another woman. She had been romantically involved with a company executive and initially appeared polished, articulate, and self-assured.

Her claims included graduate studies at a respected local institution and comprehensive professional knowledge. However, her actual performance revealed shocking incompetence and unfamiliarity with fundamental industry concepts. Eventually, staff questioned whether she had attended any legitimate educational institution.

History seemed to be repeating itself. Dario had dismissed a qualified friend with impressive credentials to accommodate Veronica. Mitchell's anger appeared entirely justified, and the entire team suspected that Dario was allowing personal relationships to compromise his professional judgment.

Dario sensed their collective skepticism but chose not to address it directly. Instead, he shifted focus to practical matters. "Which project has occupied Mitchell's recent attention?"

Jordan Robbie, Mitchell's primary collaborator, delivered a comprehensive summary of their current assignment's scope and objectives.

Dario then directed his attention to Veronica. "Would you be willing to assume responsibility for completing Mitchell's remaining tasks?"

Veronica nodded confidently. "Absolutely."

She then addressed the group with gracious professionalism. "I look forward to learning from each of your experiences and expertise."

The team responded with polite smiles and courteous acknowledgments, though none felt equipped to provide meaningful mentorship. Their primary hope centered on Veronica proving her competence independently rather than requiring extensive support from them.

While most colleagues maintained neutral attitudes, Jordan faced particular challenges given his direct partnership with Mitchell.

His expression betrayed obvious discomfort, yet he managed to respond with professional courtesy. "All relevant materials and documentation are located here. Please don't hesitate to contact me with any questions or concerns."

Veronica appreciated his effort. "Perfect. I'm grateful for your cooperation."

Jordan struggled to find appropriate words. However, he had to admit that her professional demeanor seemed genuinely respectful and collaborative.

The office atmosphere remained charged with unspoken doubts and careful observations. Everyone understood that the coming days would reveal whether Dario's faith in Veronica was justified or misplaced.

Veronica settled into Mitchell's former workspace, acutely aware of the scrutinizing gazes surrounding her. She understood that her every action would be evaluated and judged against the reputation of the man she was replacing.

The weight of expectation pressed against her shoulders, but she had faced similar challenges before. Her track record spoke for itself, even if these colleagues couldn't access that information due to classification restrictions.

She opened the project files, immediately immersing herself in the technical specifications and development timelines. The work was complex but fell well within her capabilities. What concerned her more was building trust with a team that viewed her arrival as an unwelcome disruption.

Dario observed the delicate dynamics from his office, knowing that time alone would vindicate his decision. He had witnessed Veronica's abilities firsthand and felt confident in her potential contributions to DataPulse's future success.