Chapter 99

One of the interviewers smiled and said, "Your skills and expertise are excellent. You've also led several team competitions during college. I think you're the perfect fit for the director's position."

Melody pursed her lips, glancing at Anthony before replying, "I'm sorry, but I'm not qualified; my capabilities are limited. I'm fine joining the design department as an ordinary employee."

The interviewers were visibly surprised by her refusal.

"While I appreciate the recognition, I'd like to point out that the college competitions were all team efforts. Furthermore, Anthony was the team leader, and I was his assistant; I can't take all the credit," Melody continued. "I'm well aware of my weaknesses. This is my first job; there are still many areas I need to improve, especially my ability to lead a team. If I'm promoted, I'd prefer to work my way up."

Impressed by Melody's candor, the interviewers turned to Anthony.

Anthony appeared upset, but before he could speak, Melody said, "Have you forgotten what I told you, Anthony? I don't want such a high position. I know you mean well, but I'll feel pressured."

Seeing her expression, Anthony relented, sighing, "Fine. We'll do as you say and promote you later."

Melody smiled appreciatively before discussing the next steps with the interviewers. When her salary was discussed, Anthony intervened again, arguing that the $1,200 base salary was too low and should be $2,700.

The interviewers remained silent, but Melody spoke up, suggesting a lower figure. She had researched the average salary for this profession. The market was competitive due to many recent graduates; $1,200 was the average for new hires. Considering her two-year employment gap, she was satisfied with the offer.

"Are you here to suffer, Melody? You rejected the director position, and now you're lowering your salary?" Anthony sighed.

"I appreciate your kindness, Anthony, but I'll follow the normal process. You don't need to go out of your way for me. I'm already fortunate to have this job," Melody replied, smiling.

Anthony eventually conceded. They compromised on $2,000.

Melody then reported for work, declining Anthony's offer to escort her. She followed an HR employee to the Design Department and joined Team 3. The team initially assumed she was their new lead, but their curiosity subsided upon learning she was an ordinary member.

Officially employed, Melody sat at her desk, feeling dazed. Just four days earlier, she was a nanny; this life change was incredibly swift.

Meanwhile, in the Fuller Group president's office, Christopher's mood was sullen. His eyes were bloodshot as he stared blankly, unable to focus. He had lost everything before realizing his true feelings. He couldn't accept it; he hadn't compensated Melody or confessed his feelings. Why had she disappeared?

Christopher called Sheldon, ordering in a low voice, "Find Melody's contact information and home address. Use any means necessary."

Sheldon, seeing Christopher's bloodshot eyes, knew he couldn't refuse. He could only nod, knowing that only Daniel had Melody's contact details, making Christopher's request difficult to fulfill.

A manager visited Christopher that morning with a product proposal, but noticing Christopher's distraught state—and his red, swollen eyes—he left. Later, he asked Sheldon, "What's wrong with Mr. Puller?"