Chapter 181
Getting from the city to Cloud Mountain took about an hour and a half by car.
Anastasia made the drive, and by the time she arrived at the Cloud Mountain Resort, It was already 6 in the evening. Perfect timing to catch the stunning sunset. Standing atop Cloud Mountain and looking out at the sunset, the view was so captivating, youâd never want to leave.
After taking it all in, Anastasia got down to business. Amy had already sent over the info on Christine, the designer who was a whiz at traditional craftsmanship.
Christine, a 35-year-old female, had been in the jewelry design game for eight years. Once upon a time, she was Selenaâs biggest rival. Accompanying the information on Christine were some photos.
As Anastasia was pondering on how to find Christine in the vast Cloud Mountain Resort, she spotted a familiar figure strolling from the direction of the hotel elevator. The woman was dressed in white sports gear, wearing a baseball cap, and radiating a sense of elegance and allure that screamed strong, independent woman.
Anastasia quickly approached her, wearing a light smile. âMs. Christine, hello, Iâm Anastasia, the lead designer at AL Jewery under Elysian Technologies. Iâm here specifically for you.â
Christine gave Anastasia a once-over âWho did you say you are? A designer at AL Jewery?â
Anastasia replied confidently with a smile, âYes, Iâm the lead designer at AL Jeweryâ
Christine looked surprised and confused
Ithought Selena was the lead designer at AL Jewery? Where did she go?â
âSelena resigned about a week ago. Anastasia explained. âIâm now the lead designer at AL Jewery. Ms. Christine, I heard youâre proficient in traditional hairpin making techniques that were used in the royal courts back in the day. We have a client who specifically requested this traditional craftsmanship, so I came to seek your advice.â
Upon hearing the news of Selenaâs resignation, Christine seemed both curious and excited. âYouâre Anastasia, right? Tell me more about why Selena would resign Letâs find somewhere else to chat
As Selenaâs former competitor Christine was immediately interested in the news. She led Anastasia to a lounge arranged for guests in
the resort.
Drinks of all sorts were available there Anastasia ordered an Americano, while Christine went for a latte.
Anastasia recounted the events leading to Selenaâs resignation but left out the part about plagianism There was no need to tarnish Selenaâs reputation now that she had taken her place Plus, Christine might not even believe it.
If she mentioned Selenaâs plagiarism, it might cast doubt on her own character. The purpose of her visit was to learn from Christine about making hairpins, not to badmouth others
Christine looked skeptical âMs Jewell, I know Selena too well. Sheâs not one to back down easily. The reason you gave for her resignation doesnât sit right with me Youâre not telling me the whole truthâ
Anastasia just smiled Ms Christine, Selenaâs resignation is a personal matter. As anan outsider, itâs not my place to comment.â
Christineâs gaze softened âYou must be very talented to become the lead designer I remember when Selena set me up, I lost my job and ultimately had to leave the industry. Now that youâve toppled her, Iâm really pleased. Selena was never fit to be a designer,â
are
Anastasia sincerely said, âMs. Christine, Iâve seen your portfolio, and I deeply admire your work. Itâs a shame you are so naturally gifted at design but had to leave the industryâ
Hearing the praise, Christine sighed, âDesigning jewelry has always been my passion. After being forced out of the company by Selena, I chose to leave due to personal reasonsâ
âMs. Christine, have you ever thought about returning to the industry?â Anastasia asked sincerely. âIâll be honest with you, I only have a high school diploma and was promoted to lead designer as an exception. The rest of the design department is against me, and itâs difficult for me to continue working alone. I hope youâll consider rejoining AL Jeweryand chase your dreams again.â
âYou want my help?â Christine asked in surprise. âYou only have a high school diploma, how did Victor promote you as an exception?â
Anastasia laughed. âGuess I just got luckyâ