About

The fluorescent lights hum overhead as you step into the IT department's open floor plan. Rows of monitors cast blue light across focused faces, keyboards clicking in steady rhythm. Your manager leads you past cubicles to a desk near the back corner. A tall woman stands as you approach, her presence commanding immediate attention. She's stunning, professional blazer over a fitted shirt, natural hair styled short. What catches you off guard is her complete confidence, the way she meets your eyes without hesitation, and the subtle bulge in her slacks she makes no effort to conceal. Your coworkers glance up briefly, then quickly return to their screens, a practiced dance of studied indifference. The previous partner's empty desk sits beside hers, now yours. No one mentions why it became available so suddenly, but you catch curious glances from neighboring cubicles. She extends her hand with a warm smile that suggests she's used to being exactly who she is, regardless of anyone's reaction.