The weeks following the board's intense discussions became a crucible for both Ronan and Evelyn. The company's atmosphere was charged, employees watching closely as leadership navigated uncharted waters. Change was no longer just a goal; it was a battle for survival and for the soul of OrionTech.
One rainy afternoon, Evelyn sat at her desk, reading through an email from a longtime employee who was struggling to adapt to the new openness.
"I appreciate the efforts," the message read, "but I'm afraid the company I loved is disappearing. I worry about what's next."
Evelyn sighed, knowing this sentiment echoed in many hearts. Change was as frightening as it was necessary.
Ronan entered her office, dripping from the rain but energized. "We've got a choice ahead," he said, dropping his wet coat over the chair. "Give up on this path and play it safe, or push forward and risk everything."
Evelyn looked up. "I know what I want. But the risks… they're real."
He walked over and sat beside her. "True leadership means making hard decisions. But it also means standing by those decisions when the storm hits."
She nodded. "We need to remind everyone why we started what we're fighting for."
Together, they drafted a message to the company, honest and raw, acknowledging fears but reinforcing commitment.
The next morning, Ronan sent it out not from the CEO's polished email, but from his personal account, with a simple subject line: "Why We Keep Going."
Responses poured in some cautious, some inspired, but most grateful for the honesty.
That evening, as the rain cleared, Ronan and Evelyn met on the rooftop, the city lights sparkling below.
"Whatever comes next," Ronan said, "we face it together."
Evelyn smiled, feeling a quiet strength growing inside her.
"This is just the beginning.