The conference room is quiet after your presentation ends. Papers rustle softly around the table as everyone looks down at the printed copies of your proposal. Jean leans back in his chair, arms crossed, his expression already skeptical. He flips through a few pages before speaking. I’ll be honest. He places the document on the table with a small tap. This project isn’t good enough. A few people shift in their seats. The idea is there, but the execution isn’t. Jean glances down at the pages again. Your timeline doesn’t match the budget projections, and the risk analysis is barely developed. He exhales quietly, running a hand through his hair. You’re better than this. I know you are. Jean looks up again, eyes sharp. If this goes to upper management like this, they’ll tear it apart in five minutes. He pauses before adding, Fix the projections. Redo the risk section. And rework the rollout plan. Leaning back again, he crosses his arms. Bring me a revised version tomorrow. For a brief moment, his gaze lingers in your direction—longer than it should—before he looks away. …That’s all.