Chapter 0236
Unspoken was the acknowledgment that losing was to be expected for them.
Zheng Congyu understood, and he wasn't the only one-all present did.
Perhaps due to the mounting pressure, one of the remaining Air China pilots couldn't contain her emotions and spoke up, "Civil Aviation is always Civil Aviation. In times of crisis, it's the Air China pilots who are relied upon. A single selection test doesn't prove anything."
As the only other female pilot besides Madison, Charlie found it was her place to respond, particularly since their challenger was a woman.
With a calm smile, Charlie replied, "Who can shoulder great responsibilities isn't set in stone yet. It's premature to say such things. It would be awkward for all of us if you end up eating your words."
"You haven't won yet either. Who knows? By the end, we might have more people left than you," retorted the Air China female pilot.
Kou Mei stayed silent throughout, standing within the team. Disappointed by Air China's attitude towards her, she had no desire to speak up.
Madison's eyes met Kou Mei's, who reassured her with a confident gaze.
Their relationship made situations like this difficult for Kou Mei.
The elevator doors opened, and Kou Mei asked, "Aren't you all leaving?"
Zheng Congyu gave her a look before entering the elevator.
Consequently, the other pilots followed him in.
They left in separate groups and soon went their separate ways.
Outside, Madison instructed her people, "In the future, let's avoid direct confrontations with Air China. But if they provoke us..."
Everyone knew Madison's nature, and as they anticipated her next words, they looked up at her with curiosity.
Madison paused, then spoke in a tone neither loud nor soft, "Well, we don't have to be too courteous, do we?" Applause broke out suddenly.
Madison blinked in surprise, looking at the clapping pilots, Brian among them, all smiling.
Henry spoke up, "Captain Madison, do you know how long we've been waiting for you to take a firm stance like this?"
Charlie nodded vigorously beside him, and Brian silently agreed.
All were seated on Mukino Airlines' private shuttle, their eyes on Madison as she stood at the front, sunglasses in hand, leaning on the back of a seat.
After a moment's silence, she said, "I'm not naturally confrontational. I prefer to silence our opponents with strength and achievements. What use is winning an argument if we're defeated in the competition?" "Therefore, I was stringent with you all, fearing we'd be the ones to lose today. If that were the case..."
Madison sighed, then stood tall before slowly bowing deeply.
The whole bus stood abruptly in response, even the driver turned to look.
"What are you doing, Captain?" a nearby pilot reached to support her.
After bowing, Madison straightened up, "I apologize. I've been too harsh on you these past days, and I'm sorry."
"No, no, you were looking out for us, for the company. We hold no grudges against you."
"Let's keep pushing, Captain. We aim for total advancement!" someone shouted.
The Mukino Airlines shuttle burst into a roar of morale.
Madison smiled, "Alright!"
They exchanged looks and laughter.
Even Frank was moved, "Let's eat. Dinner is on me today!"
"So Manager Xiao can actually be generous? Haha."
"Don't say that. Manager Xiao is always generous."
Frank pointed at them with a smile, "You guys..."
They left for their meal amidst laughter and cheer.
At the seafood restaurant.
A long table was set for the gathering.
Thirty-plus people sat around,
chatting and laughing, especially el
animated when discussing their triumph over the Air China
ots.
"The date for the final selection round isn't set. We can have a little drink today," Henry suggested.
Even Brian was in high spirits, lifting his glass, "Just a little."
Seeing Brian drink, the rest followed suit. Frank allowed the festivities, given everyone's happiness.
"Captain Madison?" Charlie teased, "Won't you join us?"
Madison seldom drank, but she didn't want to seem out of place on such a joyous occasion.
"Alright."
With glasses raised, Frank spoke first, "To more successes, but safety above all."
"Loud and clear!" The room answered in unison.
Glasses were about to clink when, unexpectedly, everyone-save for Madison and Frank-chorused:
"Here's to Captain Madison's hard work!"
"Cheers to Captain Madison!"
Madison was stunned, looking around at everyone.
She hadn't anticipated this gesture, and as touched as she was, her eyes began to sting with unspoken emotions.
Clearing her throat, Madison responded, "Thank you for trusting and supporting me. I'll work even harder."
Holding back tears, she toasted, "Cheers."
"Cheers!"
And so, the celebration continued, and Madison was toasted repeatedly until she began to feel dizzy. She missed Ethan's W******p messages and calls.
"Just a moment, everyone." Frank gestured for silence as he answered his phone, "President Grant?" The table fell silent; everyone glanced at Madison, who was watching Frank.
"Madison?" Ethan's voice was stern.
Frank hurriedly spoke, "We're dining together. Are you looking for Captain Madison?"
Hearing this, Madison checked her phone and saw several missed calls and messages.
Oh no.
Feeling woozy, she stood to return Ethan's call, her words a bit sluggish.
After hanging up, Frank looked expectantly at Madison.
"Hello?"
"I was dining with colleagues, didn't hear the phone," Madison explained.
Ethan could tell, "You've had too much to drink?"
"Just a little," Madison leaned against the elevator wall, catching her breath.
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Without hesitation, Ethan replied, "I'm on my way now."
Madison paused, quickly saying, "We haven't finished eating yet."
"I'll wait for you."
Madison objected, "Your presence will make everyone uncomfortable; they'll get tense."
"Would it? Can't I join you for dinner?" It sounded like Ethan was already in his car.
Tipsy, Madison didn't notice the details. Her voice, lazy and alluring, teased, "What's President Grant doing right now?"
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