Chapter 6
After leaving the HR office, Lily was stopped by colleagues in the hallway.
“Mr. Scott just called an urgent design department meeting to announce the new director. It’s starting now–come with us.”
Lily nodded and followed them.
Along the way, colleagues beamed while congratulating her.
“Lily, you’ve contributed to major projects and won international awards these three years. You’re the obvious choice for director.”
“Exactly! With your track record and Mr. Scott’s trust, we all support you. Treat us to dinner after the announcement!”
Having worked alongside them for years, Lily knew their sincerity. She nearly mentioned her impending resignation but decided to wait until dinner since Victor hadn’t signed off yet.
“Whether I’m promoted or not, dinner’s on me tonight. I have news to share.”
The group reached the conference room while chatting, and Lily took a
corner seat,
Once everyone settled, Victor entered precisely on time. His gaze swept the room before he addressed them directly.
“You’ve all heard rumors. Today we appoint the new design director. Speak freely if you have thoughts.”
11.45)
Chapter 6
All eyes turned to Lily. Before the decision finalized, she needed to
intervene.
After a steadying breath, she met Victor’s impassive eyes and stood.
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“Mr. Scott, thank you for entrusting me with key projects. Our team delivered every time. Though I don’t know your pick for director, before announcing, I wish to volun-”
He cut her off mid–sentence.
“Among our ten designers, others lack your portfolio depth, but but your seniority is too limited. So I’ve decided to bring in an external candidate with extensive experience and seniority to take on this important role.”
Everyone froze in stunned silence,
and Lily stood frozen.
Victor’s voice rang out clearly.
“Let me introduce you to our new design director Sophie.”
The door swung open with a thud. Sophie entered, smiling.
“Hello, I’m Sophie. Ph.D. from Milan Design Institute, European Young Design Award winner…”
Dead silence followed. Colleagues exchanged uneasy glances, expressions turning strained.
Sophie’s listed achievements–several designers present had earned the same honors. Her lack of experience and instant directorship sparked visible discontent, especially among senior designers who’d been with the company for nearly five years. One of them couldn’t hold back and spoke
- up.
ना
11:45)
Chapter 6
“Mr. Scott, we unanimously believe Ms. Harrison lacks sufficient
experience and needs a couple more years to season before taking the director role.
By comparison, Lily is better qualified for this position.”
A voice spoke up, and design department colleagues nodded in agreement.
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Sophie’s eyes instantly turned teary–eyed, her pouty expression fixed on Victor.
Seeing her tears, Victor’s face flickered with concern before his gaze snapped toward Lily–sharp and icy.
“Sophie is a top graduate from a prestigious university, with countless international awards under her belt. Whether in vision or capability, Lily can’t hold a candle to her. Sure, Lily’s handled many projects, but every bit of her outstanding performance stems from our department’s solid foundation.
Even if I handed all these responsibilities to Sophie tomorrow, she’d deliver a perfect score–likely exceeding expectations.
Therefore,” Victor declared, his tone leaving no room for debate, “Sophie is the only one fit for the design director position. This discussion is closed.”
