Chapter 112

The interviewers no longer dismissed Skylar after her recent demonstration of skill. Earlier, they had considered her a show-off. However, witnessing her capabilities, they eagerly examined the two antiques she had restored. Her craftsmanship, whether on the fragmented pocket watch or the repaired sections of the old painting, was exceptional.

These interviewers, Alexander's colleagues for years, had always considered themselves among the industry's best—until they saw Skylar's work. Their initial embarrassment was palpable; had they not witnessed it firsthand, they might have doubted its possibility.

After the other two candidates completed their tasks, Alexander entered. Skylar, hearing the door open, turned to face him. She recognized him from television appearances; at seventy, he remained vibrant and energetic.

"Let me take a look," Alexander said, approaching the restored pieces. He examined each one meticulously, finally stopping before Skylar's work. Skylar, holding her breath, felt nervous; she knew Alexander's high standards and was uncertain if her work met them.

Alexander's eyes widened with excitement. For years, unable to find someone who met his expectations, he had taken no new recruits. Finally, he had found someone! Caleb, despite his wild past, had brought him a remarkably talented granddaughter-in-law. If Caleb refused to take over his business, perhaps Skylar could!

"Are you Skylar Sullivan?" Alexander asked.

Skylar nodded. "Yes, Mr. Gardner Senior."

"You're hired. You can start tomorrow," Alexander said, carefully controlling his excitement. His tone remained calm, befitting a respected academic figure, though his thrill was evident.

Skylar was overjoyed. "Thank you!" She could hardly believe she had joined Alexander's team.

One candidate stepped forward, his face flushed with anger. "I don't believe it. How could she outperform us both? Mr. Gardner Senior, I heard you never hire through connections, yet she clearly gained entry through some back door." How could an unknown like Skylar compare to them, established figures in the industry? Losing to someone who gained the position through connections would be the ultimate insult. Losing to someone talented would be one thing; at least that would be understandable. But losing to Skylar was unacceptable.

Alexander remained calm, gesturing to the disgruntled candidate. "Examine her restoration work."

An interviewer explained, "In the previous round, she was the only one to correctly identify all the fakes."

The two candidates inspected Skylar's work, their stunned silence giving way to embarrassed flushes. Her superior skill was undeniable. Were all young people now so incredibly skilled? They had honed their craft for over a decade, yet this young woman surpassed them. It was humbling.

Alexander observed Skylar closely. From the initial questioning to the revelation of her talent, she remained calm and composed, her demeanor reminding him of someone he knew.

Ten minutes later, Alexander returned to the break room, beaming with approval and praising Caleb.