The Heart Left Behind (Cole and Yvonne) novel Chapter 180

As we made our way to the company, Lorraine kept her head down, worried that someone would see her.

"We're already married. You're now the wife of Cole Joplin."

"That doesn't mean I should be too high-profile."

Lorraine could already guess how the people in the office would gossip about her.

She stopped at the intersection and was about to let go of my hand when I abruptly tugged her back.

"You aren't going to the design department."

"Then where am I going?"

Lorraine followed closely behind me, but my strides were too big, making it hard for her to keep up.

Breathing heavily, she asked with a puzzled look, "Where are you taking me?"

"Do you remember the studio I told you about before?"

I brought up the matter to Hayden a few days ago, and he was extremely supportive of it.

I glanced at Lorraine and nodded slowly. "After the board discussion, we've decided to pick the head of the studio from ten outstanding designers. You're going to compete for the position now."

"Now?"

Lorraine stared at me in disbelief. She placed her hands on her hips and asked again, "Are you saying I have to compete right now? But I haven't prepared anything."

"There's no preparation time given."

I had initially planned to give the contestants some time, but then I realized that it would make it hard to assess their true abilities.

"All of you must improvise. We'll give you some exhibits and topics, and you'll have to design a proposal based on our requirements."

I noticed Lorraine tense up. "Isn't… Isn't that too difficult?"

Lorraine wasn't particularly concerned about herself. During her time at her former company, she frequently faced sudden tasks from her boss.

Rather, she was more concerned about the other contestants. When it came to professional skills, she was confident that no one could outdo her.

"Those who are capable won't be intimidated by these rules."

Upon hearing this, Hayden patted my shoulder and said with a smile, "You're right. Let her talent speak for themselves."

The competition quickly began, and the topic Lorraine drew required her to come up with an advertising slogan for a fall clothing line.

I recognized the brand. It was a newly launched one that had gained immense popularity.

I remembered this to be one of Lorraine's strong suits.

Surely enough, when she explained her design concept, everyone in the room was left in awe.

I knew why they were amazed. They were impressed by her ability and her creativity. Within such a short time, she had managed to come up with such a comprehensive design. She was truly a top talent in the design world.

I gave her a thumbs-up and watched as she thanked the audience and left hurriedly.

Hayden noticed me getting up from my seat and asked in puzzlement, "Aren't you going to watch the rest?"

"The rest don't matter."

I had no interest in anyone else. From Lorraine's performance and the judges' reaction just now, there was no doubt that she would be the one chosen as the head of the studio.