Ever since her conversation with Ximena Spence, Callie was confident that Ximena would make a wise decision. The cancellation of the engagement would mean Callie’s mother could no longer demand her father’s medical bills.
However, after several days without any word from Ximena, Callie started to feel anxious. She worried that Ximena, love-struck, might be coaxed by Joaquin Marsh, or worse, that a desperate Joaquin might harm her.
Callie’s finger hovered over her messaging app. She was wondering whether to reach Ximena, when suddenly there was a stir in the design department-it was Nelson’s assistant, Cora Weber, making her way downstairs. Dressed in her sharp professional attire, she was the epitome of efficiency.
“Mr. Oconnor has a new directive for the design department,” Cora announced, waving a document in her hand.
Litzy hurriedly nudged Callie, whispering, “It must be about the design director position. Could it be you?”
Callie doubted it herself, muttering, “I don’t think so… I’m not quite there yet.”
Sure enough, Cora opened the document and declared to an audience of eager faces, “The new design director for the department is Skye.”
The announcement was met with cheers from Team A, congratulating Skye. Litzy’s face fell, “Meh, boring. You’re way more talented than her.”
Callie, having anticipated this outcome, just shook her head with a wry smile, “Don’t stir things up.”
At that moment, Cora’s gaze landed on her, scrutinizing her with a hint of amusement, before she swiftly turned away and exited.
Watching her brisk departure, Callie reflected, “Honestly, what I admire most is Miss Weber. To be so capable and confident at such a young age, working as the CEO’s assistant, and earning a high salary-it’s admirable.”
Litzy agreed, “Definitely… Cora isn’t just capable. I heard that back when Oconnor Group’s succession was uncertain, she decisively sided with Mr. Oconnor, helping him navigate through all challenges up to this day. That kind of foresight and courage is rare. She’s the most trusted by Mr. Oconnor in the corporation.”
Callie knew, if she were Cora, she too would choose Nelson for his unique qualities, including his leadership.
Too bad life doesn’t deal in ‘ifs,’ she sighed, knowing she had never had a chance to meet Nelson in her early years.
In the break room, as Mr. Russell brewed coffee during a break, he noticed Cora staring out of the window in contemplation and approached her with a teasing smile, “Miss Weber, I heard you were the one to announce today’s personnel changes in the design department.”
Cora looked up, her expression guarded, “These changes were directly authorized by Mr. Oconnor. Why shouldn’t I announce them?”
“It’s not typically your responsibility, is it a bit overstepping? Does Mr. Oconnor know about this?”
Inferring the implication in Mr. Russell ‘s tone, Cora responded, “Are you suggesting he should find out?”
Both seasoned in corporate politics, Mr. Russell chuckled over his coffee, “Miss Weber is a favorite of Mr. Oconnor’s; I wouldn’t dare complain. Besides, I’m quite pleased with the outcome, no need to stir up trouble.”
Doubting he would dare, Cora continued gazing outside, dismissing him.
As Mr. Russell finished his coffee and prepared to leave, he leaned in and whispered, “Keep up the good work. The whole company is speculating whether you’ll be the CEO’s chosen one. If you are, don’t forget to invite me to the wedding.”
Cora sharply looked up, interpreting the comment as mockery.
“Get out!”