The next day, Lucas waited downstairs at the Chambers residence for Yvette. Today was the day she would visit the Chambers Group. Following Zachary's instructions, the entire company anticipated her arrival, buzzing with speculation. Zachary, meanwhile, was enjoying a leisurely countryside retreat dedicated to flower-growing, leaving the management of his vast company entirely in Yvette's hands. Lucas, somewhat resentfully, noted Zachary's absence.
Lost in thought, Lucas snapped to attention at the sound of footsteps. He straightened his meticulously chosen suit, wanting to make a good impression beside Yvette. His smile faltered, however, as he saw her descending the stairs in a dark tracksuit adorned with cartoon patterns. He couldn't believe she planned to wear that to the office. His apprehension solidified as she stood before him.
After a moment, Yvette surveyed his attire, then his face, and casually asked, "Are you going on a date?"
Embarrassed, Lucas vehemently denied it. "Ms. Zeller, please don't joke. I'm too old for blind dates. For the next seven days, I'll be at your service."
Yvette nodded. "Okay, let's go."
As they approached the car, Lucas hesitated. "Ms. Zeller, are you planning to wear that? There's a board meeting, and I'm concerned about their reaction to your outfit."
Yvette smiled slightly, hands in her pockets. "Can they take a punch?"
Lucas, speechless, could only nod. He doubted they could withstand Yvette's temper.
In the car, Lucas watched Yvette rest with her eyes closed, silently praying for the Chambers Group executives.
At the entrance of the Chambers Group's imposing Seacrity skyscraper—thirty-plus floors of its own—Zoe nervously clutched her resume, her prosthetic leg hidden beneath her skirt. After a half-hour wait, she finally entered the building.
Yvette and Lucas were greeted by Jackson, the promotional planning department manager, and a group of bowing employees. He introduced himself, followed by a chorus of polite greetings. Yvette's cool demeanor, hinting at her renowned accomplishments—head of the Chambers Group, national representative, victor over Ybaulla, and internationally acclaimed artist—left Jackson awestruck.
In the private elevator, Yvette surprised Lucas by announcing her intention to tour the company alone. "Ms. Zeller, may I accompany you?" he offered.
"No need," she replied, "Wait for me on the top floor." Lucas nodded; at Chambers Group, even Yvette's unconventional methods were acceptable.
On the tenth floor, the Chambers Group recruitment day was in full swing. Elegantly dressed women milled about, a diverse group vying for coveted positions. Zoe, number 36, waited patiently, realizing the extensive queue ahead.
Nearby, Vivian, Zoe's half-sister and a fellow applicant, noticed Zoe. Scoffing at her presence and apparent disability, Vivian subtly pushed her to the ground, scattering her resume.
A gasp rippled through the crowd. Whispers of disapproval and disdain followed, targeting Zoe's disability. Vivian, unseen, watched with malicious glee.
Overwhelmed by the cruel comments, Zoe felt defeated. Just as she succumbed to despair, a familiar voice cut through the noise. "Get up."
Zoe looked up to see the girl who had helped her on the bus. Even under a baseball cap, she recognized the voice. The crowd fell silent as Yvette approached, her expression icy yet unyielding. She noticed Zoe's prosthetic leg, her gaze unwavering.
"This little gadget is pretty cool," Yvette remarked, surprising everyone.
Zoe, seeing acceptance rather than judgment, felt a renewed sense of hope. Yvette's cold, yet unwavering gaze, intensified. "Get up on your own."
Zoe, emboldened, shakily stood, apologizing for the display.