Throughout their journey, the two women engaged in profound discussions about private equity, investment banking, and the shifting landscape of global finance. Ella found herself learning a great deal from the seasoned analyst beside her.

Hearing the analyst's positive assessment of the Prometheus Project gave Ella a newfound sense of confidence. She couldn't help but smile, a rare moment of genuine hope lighting up her face.

The analyst, finishing her coffee, suddenly realized they hadn't formally introduced themselves. "I'm Diane Anderson," she said, her tone much warmer than when they had first met. She was pleasantly surprised to find that the coffee Ella had provided was her favorite VC Americano.

"How did you know my taste?" Diane asked, impressed.

"It’s part of my responsibility to understand the preferences of the people we collaborate with," Ella explained modestly. "I made a few inquiries before our meeting."

Diane took another sip, the complex flavors lingering in her throat. Her professional guard dropped significantly. "I appreciate your attention to detail, Ella. I consider you a talent worth knowing."

After Diane left, Ella took a deep breath and knocked on Royce Castillo's office door. Upon receiving permission, she stepped inside.

"Mr. Castillo, I need to discuss the project funding with you," Ella began.

"Ella, I actually have something to discuss with you as well," Royce replied, gesturing for her to take a seat. "You first."

"I’ve been reviewing Diane’s risk assessment for the Prometheus Project," Ella said carefully. "Our team requires twenty million dollars in initial funding to reach the next milestone. If Quantum Tech is willing to lead this round, we can establish a long-term strategic partnership that would be mutually beneficial."

Royce raised an eyebrow, a meaningful smile playing across his features. "I’m considering the investment, but I have one condition."

Ella waited patiently. "What condition?"

"I want you to transfer from the Secretary Department to the Research Department," Royce stated firmly. "I believe your analytical skills are being wasted on administrative tasks. Your work on the Prometheus Project proves you’re a rare talent."

Ella was momentarily stunned. She had always intended to prove herself and earn a spot in Research through her own merits, rather than through a direct appointment from the CEO. However, for the sake of the project's success, she realized she couldn't refuse.

"I accept," she agreed.

Upon returning to her workstation to pack her belongings, her colleague Hannah looked on in confusion. "Are you quitting, Ella? Is it because of the office rumors? Don't let them win!"

Ella hugged Hannah warmly. "I'm not leaving the company, Hannah. I'm moving to the Research Department. We'll meet again at the upcoming summit."

While Ella went to Human Resources to finalize her transfer, Judith happened to see her exiting the office. Assuming Ella had been fired due to the recent scandals, Judith immediately hurried back to the Design Department to spread the news.

"Ella is finally gone!" Peter exclaimed when he heard the rumor. "There's been nothing but trouble since she joined. It’s about time the company cleared out the dead weight."

The rumors of Ella's "termination" spread like wildfire throughout the office, but Ella remained unfazed. She was no longer focused on the whispers in the hallways; she was ready to return to the world of high-stakes research where she truly belonged.