Chapter 109

Skylar arrived promptly at 9:30 a.m. for her interview, as instructed. Two other candidates were waiting; both men appeared at least ten years older than she was. They frowned slightly upon seeing her. Skylar's youth was striking. Did she have connections? Only genuinely qualified candidates joined Alexander's team; he rejected many who attempted to leverage their connections. Could a young woman like Skylar possess the necessary skills? Both men regarded her with disdain, seemingly assuming her attractiveness precluded talent. Skylar noticed their expressions but remained unfazed.

"I thought they weren't going to interview me," one man said to the other. "Surprisingly, they called last night. Did you get a call as well?"

"Yes," the other replied. "I was about to look elsewhere. It's a shame I couldn't get onto Mr. Gardner Senior's team."

"Looks like luck's on our side," the first man said.

They continued conversing as if planning their future collaboration, completely ignoring Skylar.

Fortunately, their wait was short. Within ten minutes, they were called in. The interviewers weren't Alexander himself, but three middle-aged professionals in their forties—individuals who appeared to be trusted members of Alexander's team, having earned their positions through hard work and skill.

"Your task is to identify the fakes," one interviewer said. "Examine these ancient coins, paintings, bronzes, and ceramics, then list the fakes in order."

Fifty to sixty items were displayed on the table and wall. Skylar wasn't sure how many stages the interview comprised; after all, interview processes varied. However, distinguishing genuine from fake artifacts had always been easy for her, and she needed even less time now. She felt a connection with the antiques, sensing their histories, making identification effortless. Having learned from Viola since childhood, this was basic for her.

She completed the task in minutes, shocking the three interviewers. Initially, they suspected she was attempting to garner attention by rushing through the process without taking it seriously. The other candidates were equally surprised by her speed, regarding her with disdain. They felt her apparent lack of seriousness insulted them. The interviewers shared their skepticism, their expressions cold and reserved.

Alexander and Caleb observed from the monitor room. Alexander's eyes were icy. Skylar, he thought, was showing off.

"What do you think now?" he asked Caleb.

Caleb was hesitant. He'd never seen Skylar evaluate so many items simultaneously, so couldn't be certain. However, he had faith in her. "It's the results that matter, not the speed. Why jump to conclusions, Grandpa?"

"What's gotten into you? You're under some spell," Alexander scoffed.

"Just wait, Grandpa. You'll see," Caleb insisted.

He trusted Skylar, but even he was perplexed by the arrangement of items. Alexander's collection of forgeries was remarkably convincing; he couldn't distinguish the fakes either.

Chapter 110