Remember Amy's moment of decision with Sharon and the late-night request?
"I understand this is important, Sharon," Amy said, standing up. "I have a commitment tonight I can't break. But I'll come in an hour early tomorrow to ensure everything's perfect for your presentation. I'll also send you my notes on the Henderson account right now so you have what you need tonight."
Sharon blinked, surprised. This wasn't the pushover Amy she was used to.
"I... okay. That works."
Amy gathered her things, maintaining eye contact. "Great. I'll see you at 7 AM."
As she walked out—for the first time in months, before 7 PM—Amy felt something shift. She wasn't being mean. She wasn't being difficult. She was being strategic.
She made it to her daughter's recital. She also made it to the promotion she deserved six months later.