Chapter 131
Before the business trip with Michael, Jessica held a private meeting with Shannon and Eric.
Eric, the new director of the jewelry design department, was a newcomer with a sharp sense for jewelry. To be precise, Jessica had been impressed by Eric’s entries in various design competitions during his time at the design academy, which closely aligned with the Wilder Group’s aesthetic preferences. Furthermore, the previous jewelry director had to resign due to immigration issues, and after multiple discussions, Eric was chosen. Eric had zero experience in the workplace, but he was undeniably a genius in design. He had received offers from numerous design companies as early as his sophomore year. After a careful selection process, he chose the Wilder Group just before graduation.
“What exactly do we do on a business trip?” Eric still didn’t quite understand the process and thought it would be like meetings where everyone offered opinions that didn’t matter and wouldn’t be adopted, yet still had to be heard.
Shannon said, “As the new design director, of course you need to attend, but you won’t have to do much. Just stay in your room and sketch, or go out to seek inspiration. All expenses incurred during the trip must be invoiced and will be reimbursed by the company. We chose Jelaston for this trip because our next season’s jewelry exhibition will be held there, and your designs need to reflect the style of Jelaston.”
Eric didn’t fully understand, but he nodded and said he would cooperate.
“The general manager of Rainbow Entertainment, who’s coming on the trip, has a somewhat delicate relationship with our Ms. Wilder… You don’t need to worry about him–your focus should be on Jason,” said Shannon.
Eric glanced at Jessica, who was leaning back in her chair replying to messages.
Shannon continued, “You’ve seen Jason’s photos and I’ve sent you videos of him attending award ceremonies. Jason is quite easygoing. For the lower-end jewelry lines, the designs need to be softer–not too cold or rigid.”
“I’ll handle the design part as I see fit,” replied Eric. He listened but didn’t agree outright.
Talented people tended to have some attitude–fortunately, Jessica understood this well.
Shannon added, “That’s basically everything. One last thing… try not to let Ms. Wilder be alone with Mr. Hall. You… know what I mean?”
Eric frowned. “What’s this about?”
“You know our Ms. Wilder is married. That guy–he’s her ex.”
Eric didn’t know what to say. Did being a subordinate now require knowing your boss’s entire romantic history in detail?
Shannon said helplessly, “I have too much to consider and can’t always keep an eye on Ms. Wilder. If you notice him going too far, just find a way to pull her away. Don’t worry about the aftermath–I’ll handle it.”
Now Eric understood. Finding inspiration wasn’t important–his real job on the trip was to act as a bodyguard.
“Got it.”
Jake’s thesis had been revised by Chris, and his promotion approval quickly went through. He was eventually retained in the department under Chris, and for Jake, this environment suited him perfectly. Ashley and Chris reviewed the pharmacy’s access logs and, along the way, saw Jake’s promotion paperwork, which had already been signed by both Chris and Jessica. Only the delivery to Jake remained.
“Can Jake be trusted?” asked Ashley.
Chris said, “Jake is very naive–but reliable.”
Ashley nodded. “I heard you shared a dorm room with him during your internship. If he’s someone you value, then he must be decent.”
“You’re putting a little too much trust in me.”