The Cooper Group boasted a long and storied history. A century ago, it began as a small bank, its founder amassing both a fortune and valuable relationships. Since then, the family expanded into diverse industries: restaurants, hotels, logistics, education, and real estate. The Cooper Group owned properties nationwide, including numerous prominent buildings in Northfield—shopping malls, residences, hotels, and iconic landmarks.
Hannah entered an elevator and pressed a button. Miguel had secured her the position of Director of Sales and Marketing. Her primary responsibility was overseeing the company's project sales. Miguel’s rationale was twofold: the previous director had been promoted to General Manager of a branch, leaving the position vacant; and sales were paramount to the company's success. He saw it as a challenging and valuable opportunity for Hannah, believing the sales and marketing department offered unparalleled insight into market trends and talent demands. No wonder Miguel had been so enthusiastic about Hannah's request to supervise Mary; it perfectly aligned with his long-term career plan for her.
The elevator stopped. Hannah stepped into a spacious office, bustling with activity despite the early hour. Approaching the reception counter, she politely inquired, "May I know where the Director's office is?"
"Looking for our Director?" the receptionist asked casually.
"No, I'm…"
The desk phone rang. The receptionist answered professionally, "Hi, this is Sales and Marketing."
"Polly, Miss Cooper is already upstairs. Make sure you welcome her properly," the caller instructed sternly.
"Certainly. I'll go to the elevator immediately. May I ask what Miss Cooper is wearing?"
"White shirt, black skirt, and khaki windbreaker."
"Understood."
Polly hung up, then, noticing Hannah, apologized, "I have an important visitor. If you're looking for the Director, it's down the open space, then left; two offices at the end, one marked 'Director'."
She hurried away. Hannah smiled and silently followed the directions. It was immediately apparent how influential Jane had been; her office surpassed even a director's in quality.
Hannah paused before the Director's office. She entered, surprised by the disarray. The previous director must have left in a rush, leaving the room untouched by the cleaning staff.
After a short time, Hannah found a cleaner and asked, "Could you please clean this room?"
"I'm swamped," the cleaner refused. "I haven't even finished the room next door. You'll have to clean it yourself or wait." The cleaner left in a hurry.
Hannah felt offended and irritated. She discovered Mary's office nearby; it was pristine, even adorned with flowers. Clearly, Mary's space had been prioritized.
A nervous woman approached, asking, "Are we ready? Miss Cooper is nearly here; she's meeting the staff."
"Yes, all set."
"Then let's meet her at the entrance. We'll line up on either side of the door, bow, and greet her."
"Yes."
The woman returned to Mary's office, grabbing a bottle of perfume to spritz the air before leaving.
Hannah joined the staff lined up by the door. One whispered, "What's the difference between this Miss Cooper and the last?"
"Difference? They're both Coopers; we don't cross them. Be alert, avoid mistakes; no one will help you if you mess up. Even the Director is polite to Miss Cooper. Understand?"
"Yes," the staff replied nervously. Everyone attempted to project their best demeanor.
A group approached, led by Mary, followed by Polly and several others. Hannah observed Mary from the side, struggling to reconcile the proud, professionally dressed woman before her with the humble Mary she remembered from the Cooper manor. Memories of Mary's past betrayal—her affair with Charles and cruel insults—flooded back. Hannah regretted her past life as a housewife, her devotion to Charles.
"Good morning, Miss Cooper," someone greeted loudly.
The staff bowed. Mary surveyed the scene with an arrogant composure that belied her age—a twenty-two-year-old recent graduate. Her calm demeanor, in this unfamiliar environment, spoke to her capability and skill. She nodded curtly, maintaining a detached air of superiority.
She started to walk past, when someone called out, "Mary," in a flat tone.