Chapter 31
31:
With an air of forced cordiality, she commented, “Linsey, since we both started on the same day, I didn’t think to bring a gift. Let’s look forward to a productive collaboration.”
Coen suddenly recalled Linsey standing nearby. But with the influential Cynthia right there, why would he bother with Linsey, a designer with no real connections?
Casually, he said, “Oh yes, this is Linsey Riley. Take a moment to mingle, everyone. We’ll gather for a meeting in half an hour.” After his brief introduction, Coen cheerfully strode back to his office, cradling the extravagant gift box in his arms.
Linsey made her way to her desk, with Cynthia shadowing her closely and taking a seat nearby.
In a low voice, Cynthia murmured, “You must be quite surprised to find me here.”
While Linsey busied herself with organizing her workspace, she shot Cynthia a fleeting look but said nothing.
Unbothered by Linsey’s silence, Cynthia pressed on. “Despite your victory yesterday, it’s meaningless. I’ve still landed a spot here at CR. Remember my warning—wait and see.”
Cynthia’s voice dripped with mockery as she locked eyes with Linsey, her gaze brimming with scorn.
When her colleagues heard her pronouncement, an uneasy silence enveloped them; they seemed hesitant to voice their thoughts. Yet, a few whispered among themselves, unable to curb their penchant for rumors.
“Linsey clinched the top spot in yesterday’s interview, and we all know Cynthia’s notorious for her domineering ways. I fear Linsey’s in for a rough ride.”
“Indeed. Linsey, the newcomer, has somehow managed to cross Cynthia. My sympathies are with her.”
“Shh, keep it down. If Cynthia catches wind of our chatter, we’ll be in serious trouble. Remember, we did take her gifts.”
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“What of it? She’s swimming in wealth; those gifts mean nothing to her.”
As anticipated, during the meeting that followed thirty minutes later, Coen openly delegated Cynthia’s responsibilities.
“In light of the upcoming season, we will update the designs for a classic brand. Since the rest of the team is already occupied, Cynthia will spearhead this project.”
Cynthia responded with zest, “Thank you, Coen, for entrusting me with this. I’m committed to excelling.”
Linsey shot her a glance before turning expectantly toward Coen, awaiting her own assignment.
However, Coen’s gaze lacked any expectation; he addressed her in a tone of superiority. “Linsey, your experience is rather limited. For now, focus on acquainting yourself with the team dynamics, observe the seasoned designers, and help out with simpler chores, like getting coffee for everyone. Understood?”
Cynthia gave Linsey a smug grin, her eyes brimming with disdain.
She knew it—Linsey wasn’t in her league.
Linsey’s brow furrowed in frustration.
She had believed that once she got in, she could start working and finally chase her dream of becoming a designer.
Yet, the tasks Coen handed her were disappointingly trivial.
Indignant, Linsey rose to her feet and voiced her concerns. “Coen, why does Cynthia, who started the same day as I did, receive a substantial project while I’m stuck with these basic tasks? This doesn’t seem right.”
Coen, clearly irked by Linsey’s forthrightness, snapped back, “What exactly doesn’t seem right? Linsey, you’re still learning the ropes as a rookie designer. You need to develop your skills. Do you really think excelling in the interview makes you special?”
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