Clara was undeniably terrified.
She silently pumped herself up, frantically organizing the impromptu concept she had literally just pulled out of thin air, and began to speak.
"Mr. Crawford, I also researched your preferences prior to this meeting. Originally, much like Ms. Shaw, I considered designing a collection centered around the element of water. But ultimately, I scrapped that idea and chose to build my design around the element of fire."
"Oh? And why is that? Go on," Mr. Crawford urged, his stoic face showing a spark of genuine intrigue.
Seraphina stiffened, a sudden wave of apprehension washing over her.
Clara smiled and continued, "I studied your career trajectory. You worked your way up from general manager to your current position as CEO. You are an extraordinarily brilliant and charismatic leader!"
"Just now, Ms. Shaw mentioned seeing a softer side beneath your resilience, and I agree. But what stands out to me the most is your sheer, undeniable determination over all these years!"
Mr. Crawford's expression shifted drastically.
Seraphina bit her lip, her panic skyrocketing.
Clara maintained a warm, engaging smile. "I understand that your main objective at the upcoming financial summit is to secure that massive municipal contract!"
"This project is your ultimate opportunity to break your own limits and elevate The Crawford Group into the Fortune 500."
"I have absolute faith that with your brilliance, you will secure it. Therefore, I based my design on the element of fire, symbolizing—a rebirth from the ashes and the shattering of boundaries!"
Mr. Crawford nodded, profoundly moved. Those words struck the deepest chords of his ambition.
Having reached the apex of the corporate ladder, he no longer cared about the noise or opinions of the outside world. What he truly hungered for was to surpass his own legacy! To conquer the next impossible peak!
Seraphina stole a glance at Mr. Crawford, her fingernails digging violently into her palms.
Dammit.
Next, Clara fluidly detailed the specific mechanics of the jewelry.
She was inventing the details on the spot, expecting to stumble, but to her own shock, the words flowed out with flawless precision.
"...And that concludes my presentation."
Mr. Crawford was thoroughly impressed. He looked at Clara with newfound, profound respect. "Clara, you have delivered surprise after surprise."
Overwhelmed with relief, Clara offered a deep, respectful bow. "Thank you, Mr. Crawford."
"Yes," Mr. Crawford smiled. "Take a seat. I need a moment to decide who will take the lead on this project."
"Understood."
Clara nodded and turned around, instantly locking eyes with Seraphina. Seraphina's gaze was like a venomous viper, violently locked onto Clara's throat.
Clara's eyes remained dark and indifferent. She had zero energy to deal with her, her head pounding with an agonizing migraine.
She looked away, taking a seat as far from Seraphina as possible. She took a sip of water and leaned back, closing her eyes. The splitting headache showed absolutely no signs of fading. She couldn't delay this any longer—the second the results were announced, she needed to rush to the ER before she completely collapsed.


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The readers' comments on the novel: Three years of loving him, three days to erase myself from his world