Reborn to Marry My Best Friend's Uncle novel Chapter 21

"Nice to meet you, Ms. Hudson. I'm Annie Steward."

Roxanne remembered Annie and recalled her details. "A top graduate from Oakhaven Academy with an incredibly solid foundation."

The glaring two-year gap on Annie's resume was a shame, though. For a designer, a two-year career break was nearly a death sentence.

Annie calmly met her gaze without the faintest flinch. "Thank you for giving me a chance, Ms. Hudson. I won't let you down."

She proceeded to bring up the upcoming fashion design contest in Jynston, which was scheduled for next month. "I've heard the champion of this contest secures a direct pass to next season's Jynston Fashion Showcase."

Roxanne frowned slightly and rubbed her temple. Of course, she knew what the contest was about, but the studio was new with unstable footing, so they had just one entry slot. Choosing who to send was a major dilemma.

She looked at the clear-eyed and determined woman sitting across from her. After a moment's thought, she said, "There's just one slot. Competition for the slot is intense, but I'll do my best to secure it for you."

Annie's eyes lit up. "Thank you, Ms. Hudson."

After leaving the office, Annie entered the bright, spacious work area. Colleagues greeted her, the newcomer, with friendly smiles.

A young woman with a perky bun bounced over and enthusiastically introduced herself. "You must be Annie Steward, right? I'm Abigail Lance, and I graduated from Oakhaven Academy two years after you!"

Annie seemed pleasantly surprised before she smiled. "Nice to meet you, Abigail."

Meeting an alumna in a new workplace seemed to considerably ease the nerves of starting a new job.

Throughout the day, Abigail was exceptionally helpful by showing her around and introducing colleagues to her. She was like a warm, buzzing little sun.

Annie's first day at work passed in a happy, steady rhythm.

When she stepped out of the building after work, she immediately spotted the black sedan waiting at the curb.

Christian was leaning against the car door. The last rays of the setting sun seemed to coat his tall, straight figure in warm gold.

He came as promised.

An indescribable warmth streamed through Annie's chest as she quickened her pace toward him.

Annie's eyes lit up as a surge of excitement filled her chest. She knew how hard that slot was to secure.

"Thank you, Ms. Hudson!"

"Don't thank me yet. I gave you the chance, so whether you can seize it is up to you," Roxanne said, crossing her arms and leaning back against the desk. Her eyes brimming with anticipation as she added, "I trust that you won't let me down."

This was a gamble that put the studio's reputation on the line, but she was willing to bet on Annie's talent.

Years ago, she was once like Annie, forced to give up her career for personal reasons. Her mentor had given her a second chance, which was how she achieved everything she owned today.

So now, she was more than happy to pass the chance on to Annie.

Annie gravely nodded. Her gaze held a resolute determination. "I won't."

Roxanne smiled in satisfaction before her tone shifted and turned serious.

"Oh, and one more thing. Tomorrow, the studio's largest shareholder, Mr. Frost, will be coming in for an inspection with his girlfriend."