Chapter 425: Absence Makes the Heart Grow Fonder

Hannah remained silent. One interviewer began, "Mr. Laurier, you stated you returned to Northfield for family reasons. What prompted you to forgo such a promising international career, leaving a position at a top-ten global company?"

Everyone was curious. After all, a brighter future awaited him in Country M. Few would willingly abandon a promising career to start anew.

"My parents threatened me with death," Tan admitted, a hint of humor in his voice. "They felt I was ungrateful, repaying a foreign country instead of appreciating their sacrifices. They deemed me unfilial and disloyal. I agreed, so I returned." He’d cleverly explained his decision without sounding stiff.

Hannah checked off his name on the interview list. His eloquence was impressive.

Another interviewer asked, "Mr. Laurier, will your perspective change after working with the James Group? Do you look down on Northfield companies?"

"Absolutely not," Tan replied. "Firstly, this is my homeland. I was born and raised here; I love it. Northfield isn't inferior; why would I disdain it? Secondly, I admire someone in Northfield—someone whose abilities surpass mine. I have nothing to prove; instead, I want to learn from her."

"Who do you admire?" the interviewer pressed.

"Hannah Wells, Ms. Hannah," Tan said, looking at Hannah, who sat in the middle.

Their eyes met. Hannah smiled. "You flatter me, but I'm always selfless," she said humorously, easing the tension.

"While abroad, I closely followed Northfield enterprises, focusing on four families. My first choice was Wells Group. Ms. Hannah's ingenious solution to the South Bay New Town construction project ultimately swayed me. Initially, I was disappointed by the Cooper Group's failure, but ultimately, I was compelled to admire Ms. Hannah’s skill. I even simulated the situation; I couldn't have replicated her success," Tan explained. "Therefore, I wish to learn under Ms. Hannah's guidance."

Hannah smiled again.

"You mentioned knowing all four families beforehand. I won't dwell on the others, but I'm curious: how much do you know about the Cooper Group?" Hannah inquired.

"Ask away," Tan responded confidently.

"How many employees do we have?"

The question baffled the other interviewers. It wasn't the typical interview query; candidates usually discuss corporate culture or achievements. Hannah had posed a trick question, leaving the others perplexed about its relevance.

Tan paused for a few seconds. The room fell silent.

"308,364," he finally stated.

The other interviewers were astonished.

Hannah nodded. "Correct."

"Thank you."

"Why did I ask that?" Hannah continued. "Firstly, to gauge your understanding of the company. Secondly, to assess your attention to detail; most people overlook employee counts. Thirdly, and most importantly, I was testing your intelligence. Your profile indicates an IQ of 185—you’re a Mensa member, a super genius. Most people glance at such figures, but a genius remembers every detail."

Hannah was satisfied. Not only did his resume impress her; his abilities confirmed it.

The other interviewers, initially confused by Hannah’s question, now understood. Many had underestimated her due to age and background, but she consistently proved them wrong.

"You're hired," Hannah announced frankly.

The other interviewers agreed; such talent was a boon to the company.

"Really?" Tan, usually composed, smiled excitedly.

"Yes," Hannah confirmed. "Report to Personnel at ten tomorrow, then come to my office."

"Thank you," Tan said, rising to shake her hand.

Hannah stood and shook his hand. "I hope we have a fruitful collaboration."

"I won't disappoint you," Tan promised.

After shaking hands with the other interviewers, Tan Laurier left. The interviewers continued discussing his exceptional talent. Hannah was equally pleased.

She finished her afternoon work and prepared to leave, checking the time: precisely 5:00 PM. Her phone rang—Oscar, calling promptly.

"Where are you?" she answered.

"Downstairs."

"I'll be right down."

"Waiting for you." His voice was magnetic.

Hannah grabbed her bag and departed. Rose, unaccustomed to Hannah leaving on time, inquired, "Ms. Hannah, are you leaving?"

"Anything urgent?" Hannah hoped to address any issues tomorrow; precious time awaited her. Oscar had infected her with his punctuality.

"No, just checking," Rose replied respectfully. "Be careful, Ms. Hannah."

Hannah nodded. A few steps later, she heard Rose muttering, "Oh, Mr. Wells has returned. Absence makes the heart grow fonder."

"..."