CHAPTER 404
Chapter 404
“What’s next then? Just making sure he’s doing alright?”
I paused for a moment, then quickly realized what I meant. “I don’t want to anticipate anything anymore.”
My feelings towards Gregory were complex and difficult to describe. For the past two years, my only wish was to hear from him, hoping he was still alive and well.
The next day, Christine and I made our way to Janedream.
Jeff had already been promoted and was now the Deputy Director of the Design Department, with his own office.
Seeing me arrive at the company through the floor–to–ceiling windows, he couldn’t contain his excitement and rushed to Christine’s office. “Ms. Webster! You finally came to the office. I’ve been looking forward to your return every day.”
“Did you miss her that much?”
Christine teased with a smile. “Without her, you’re practically second in command here. Why would you want her back so badly?”
In two years, Janedream had expanded rapidly, taking over the office space on the floor below as well. Now, the Design Department had grown significantly, and Jeff held considerable power.
Despite my absence, Christine insisted on keeping the position of Design Department Director open for me. So, for those two years, Jeff was effectively the head of the department.
“Heh heh…”
Jeff scratched his head. “Well, it’s not exactly like that. Working under Ms. Webster, there’s just so much more to learn.”
“It’s the same even when I’m not around.”
I smiled. “I’ve carefully reviewed every design draft, especially yours. I’ve been the strictest with them.”
“What??”
Jeff was surprised. “So, you were the final reviewer all along?”
I nodded. “Yes.”
After I went abroad, the final drafts were sent to Christine, who then forwarded them to me. Nobody knew who the hidden designer behind Janedream was. Moreover, after studying under my mentor, my design style had become. bolder and more innovative, making it hard for anyone to guess it was me.
Jeff was both shocked and delighted. He joked with Christine, “Ms. Jackson, you sure know how to keep a secret.”
“That’s for sure.”
Christine shrugged, jokingly adding, “If I weren’t tight–lipped, knowing the reviewer is someone familiar might lead you to take things for granted.”
Jeff was passionate about design. After laughing, he looked at me again. “So, the recent decrease in the number of times my work’s been rejected means I’ve improved a lot, right?”
“Absolutely. Even my mentor approved of your designs.”
“Really?”
Jeff couldn’t help but ask further. “So, the designer handling the private. commissions… don’t tell me it’s you… If that’s the case, I’m just blown away. Those designs showcased this year left everyone in the Design Department
in awe.”
“Alright, alright,” Christine promptly dismissed the conversation. “Enough with the questions. You’ll find out in due time.” This text is © NôvelDrama/.Org.
Then, she handed me a pile of resumes for the Design Department, treating me like a workhorse. “I need you to help filter these. The HR department has already checked their qualifications; you just need to review their portfolios.”
The next day, I had arranged to meet Bella at four in the afternoon at a five–star hotel.
Christine had been staying at my place for the past few days, claiming she was warming up the house for me. We set off together for the hotel.
09:05
Given Bella’s status as a public figure, the hotel had strict security measures in place. We couldn’t just call her; we had to be escorted inside.
Bella was staying in the presidential suite on the top floor. Her assistant led us in and welcomed us in the living room.
As she served us tea, she said, “Ms. Jackson, Ms. Elena, please enjoy your tea. Bella will be with you shortly; she’s currently with her daughter.”
“Thank you,” we both replied, smiling and accepting the tea.
Despite being in a hotel, Bella spared no expense in making her suite feel like home, even the air was subtly scented with aromatherapy.