Chapter 98
“I’m just glad it doesn’t look weird. It’s been a while since I’ve dressed formally,” Melody chuckled softly.
Anthony didn’t suspect anything. After all, she had been traveling for two years, meaning she hadn’t been working. He turned to look at her. She wore light makeup, with a red lip color that was far from gaudy. Her entire outfit was simple, elegant, and clean.
“You look beautiful,” Anthony said generously. “Back in college, you were the prettiest and smartest girl in our department. The number of boys who liked you could have reached Mars!” he chuckled.
“Stop teasing, Anthony,” Melody said, a little embarrassed.
Anthony chuckled again; her shyness brought back fond memories of their college days. He had wanted to ask if she had a boyfriend, but considering their recent reconnection, it felt too soon. He decided to wait.
After their chat, they reached the twelfth floor. Anthony led the way, showing her around. “This is our company signboard. The name is Nexora. It might look tacky, but it’s said to bring good luck.”
Melody examined the name before observing the lobby’s minimalistic yet sophisticated design. It conveyed a clean, competent vibe.
“Good morning, Mr. Zeller,” the receptionists greeted.
Anthony nodded before resuming his conversation with Melody. “I remember asking you what to name the company. You said to leave it to me, so you can’t blame me if it’s…”
“Why would I? It’s vibrant and prosperous. You’ve chosen a really good name, Anthony,” Melody said with a smile.
As they walked further, Anthony briefly introduced her to the various departments.
Back at reception, the receptionists were astonished to see Anthony with an unfamiliar woman. Speculation ran rampant. Had Anthony consulted her on the company name? Who could she be? His wife? But she addressed him formally and distantly. If she were his wife, she wouldn't sound so detached.
The Human Resources personnel were already in the conference room. Upon their arrival, everyone rose and greeted Anthony.
“This is Melody Smith. She’s the one I mentioned a few days ago. You may proceed with the interview as usual. Just pretend I’m not here,” Anthony said.
Melody stepped forward, extending her hand. “Hello everyone, I’m Melody Smith.”
The interviewers introduced themselves, shaking her hand. Not only was she personally recommended by their boss, he had escorted her; his presence as a spectator increased the pressure. Her hiring seemed assured; they merely needed to follow standard procedure. Initially, they assumed nepotism.
However, her resume quickly changed their minds. Their perception shifted from “nepo-baby” to “well-qualified.” A graduate of Ashford University, she was the nation’s top scorer, a winner of numerous prestigious competitions, and had prepared a compelling portfolio.
When her work appeared on the screen, nods of approval circulated the room. Those personally recruited by the boss always stood out, explaining his emphasis on her.
“Melody was just saying the two-year gap made her rusty. She’s not giving herself enough credit. Her prowess hasn’t diminished,” Anthony chuckled, watching the screen.
Melody gave a polite smile. These were her best works, the product of hard work and a month of revisions.
“The leader position for Design Team 3 is currently vacant. Would you be interested, Ms. Smith?” the interviewer asked.
Before Melody could answer, Anthony interjected, “Isn’t Avery, the design director, transferring?”
They understood.