Chapter 6 After leaving the HR office , Lily was stopped by colleagues in the hallway . " Mr. Scott just called an urgent design department meeting to announce the new director . It's starting now - come with us . " Lily nodded and followed them . Along the way , colleagues beamed while congratulating her . " Lily , you've contributed to major projects and won international awards these three years . You're the obvious choice for director . " " Exactly ! With your track record and Mr. Scott's trust , we all support you . Treat us to dinner after the announcement ! " Having worked alongside them for years , Lily knew their sincerity . She nearly mentioned her impending resignation but decided to wait until dinner since Victor hadn't signed off yet . " Whether I'm promoted or not , dinner's on me tonight . I have news to share . " The group reached the conference room while chatting , and Lily took a corner seat , Once everyone settled , Victor entered precisely on time . His gaze swept the room before he addressed them directly . " You've all heard rumors . Today we appoint the new design director . Speak freely if you have thoughts . " 11.45 ) Chapter 6 All eyes turned to Lily . Before the decision finalized , she needed to intervene . After a steadying breath , she met Victor's impassive eyes and stood . 288 Vouchers " Mr. Scott , thank you for entrusting me with key projects . Our team delivered every time . Though I don't know your pick for director , before announcing , I wish to volun- " He cut her off mid - sentence . " Among our ten designers , others lack your portfolio depth , but but your seniority is too limited . So I've decided to bring in an external candidate with extensive experience and seniority to take on this important role . " Everyone froze in stunned silence , and Lily stood frozen . Victor's voice rang out clearly . " Let me introduce you to our new design director Sophie . " The door swung open with a thud . Sophie entered , smiling . " Hello , I'm Sophie . Ph.D. from Milan Design Institute , European Young Design Award winner ... " Dead silence followed . Colleagues exchanged uneasy glances , expressions turning strained . Sophie's listed achievements - several designers present had earned the same honors . Her lack of experience and instant directorship sparked visible discontent , especially among senior designers who'd been with the company for nearly five years . One of them couldn't hold back and spoke up . ना 11:45 ) Chapter 6 " Mr. Scott , we unanimously believe Ms. Harrison lacks sufficient experience and needs a couple more years to season before taking the director role . By comparison , Lily is better qualified for this position . " A voice spoke up , and design department colleagues nodded in agreement . 288 Vouchers Sophie's eyes instantly turned teary - eyed , her pouty expression fixed on Victor . Seeing her tears , Victor's face flickered with concern before his gaze snapped toward Lily - sharp and icy . " Sophie is a top graduate from a prestigious university , with countless international awards under her belt . Whether in vision or capability , Lily can't hold a candle to her . Sure , Lily's handled many projects , but every bit of her outstanding performance stems from our department's solid foundation . Even if I handed all these responsibilities to Sophie tomorrow , she'd deliver a perfect score - likely exceeding expectations . Therefore , " Victor declared , his tone leaving no room for debate , " Sophie is the only one fit for the design director position . This discussion is closed . "