''Miss Ana, a lot of people are already calling to place their orders for this month's next issue. Because of the snippet that was aired on our website, people are going crazy over the interview you did with Yu Lin Shen. The marketing team said they are projecting about 250% increase in online sales alone!''
''Really?'' Ana smiled.
''Yes, what's more…'' Vivian moved closer to Ana and whispered, ''the rumor is already going round that if this month's issue is a success, you will be on your way to becoming the youngest director of this company. Miss Ana, been your assistant, I am very proud of you.''
''Well, let's hope nothing gets in the way. Tell the marketing team and editorial team that we have a meeting in 20 minutes.''
''Yes, Director!'' Vivian said and ran out.
''This girl…'' Ana smiled and muttered, ''Director… that's not bad.''
….
Andrew's office.
''Mr. Lee, we are receiving a lot of good reviews due to the fact that we got exclusive news with Yu Lin Shen. This time around, the position of Director will definitely be yours.'' Andrew's assistant said excitedly inside the office.
''Of course, I got Lin Shen to come for that interview and photoshoot. I deserved the credit. Did you tell the editorial team to credit my name?''
''Yes, I gave them strict instructions. That Vivian girl was there, telling them to put Miss Ana's name but I made them change it. When the magazine comes out, your name will be there on the front page as the chief of communications.''
''That's great. Ana, Ana. If you think you can take my shine this time, then you have to think twice.'' Andrew said and smirked.
…..
''Okay, we shall end the meeting here. I hope that everyone would continue to work hard.''
''Miss Ana, would we get our bonuses this month? We were wondering, since we are getting to the end of the year.'' a member of the marketing team spoke.
''Of course, your end of year bonuses are secured and if this month's issue gets a lot of reviews and increase in sales, you will get double the usual bonuses.''
''Yeah!''
Ana smiled and walked out along with them. She went to the office and the team leader for marketing department followed her inside. His name was Francis Temi and he was one of the few people on Ana's side.
''Francis, what is it?''
''Ana, did you know that the chief of communication for this month's issue was credited to Andrew?''
''What?'' Ana furrowed her brows.
''I saw the sample magazine that was brought to the Editorial team. They took your name off from the credits and kept Andrew's name there.''
''Andrew is behind it. Don't let it bother you, Francis.''
''But Ana, you work hard more than anyone in this company but the credit gets given to Andrew while he does the bare minimum. At this rate, I am afraid that the Director position would be snatched from you.'' Francis was genuinely worried for Ana.
Ana smiled and stood up. She went to the small tabletop fridge in her office and opened it. She removed a bottled juice and gave it to Francis.
''Old Temi, why are you getting angry in my place?''
''I just hate seeing you get bullied. You are always getting hate while he gets praised for the work that you do.''
''Alright, that's enough. Don't let it get to you.''
''If you say so?'' Francis took the bottle juice and opened it.
''Go back to your work.''
''You are just so stubborn.'' Francis said and left the office.
Ana sat back and leaned against the chair. She looked around and her eyes landed on the familiar bag by her feet.
''I can't believe I have to see this jerk again.'' Ana muttered.
….
HB Hotel.
VIP PRIVATE ROOM.
There were happiness and excitement everywhere in the private room as the housewives of the prominent families chatted and laughed. A lot of delicious foods were served at the table.
''Mrs. Yu, you just keep getting younger each time I see you. Say, who would believe we are off the same age?'' one of the housewives, He Mei, the wife of Great Investment CEO, He Wanjie spoke. She was known to be someone who bootlicked poweful people.
''He Mei, you are making me blush. This is all thanks to my two sons, spending time with me.'' Yu Jiajia, the wife of Yu Huo and the mother of Lin Shen and Shiao said proudly. She was indeed in her late fifties but she still looked very young.
''I don't see Gloria here. Is she not coming anymore?'' Niama, another housewife commented but just then the door opened and Gloria came in, dawned in exquisite outfit. Her necklace, which was a pricy jewelry that was bought at an auction made her look outstanding and sophisticated.
Gloria walked with poised to the table and greeted them, ''hi everyone. Good morning. My apologies for coming late. Guhan wanted me to accompany him somewhere.''
Yu Jiajia turned and looked at Gloria from head to toe. They used to be good friends, but that was when Ana was still engaged to Yu Shiao, but since the breakup, Jiajia hasn't been happy with the Lee family, hence kept her distance. She was a woman who was proud and felt insulted by the Lee family.
If only she knew the truth!
Since then, Gloria has been trying to make amends but Jiajia was a stubborn woman. It was known that she only listened to her youngest son's words.
Today, Gloria wanted to mend their relationship so that she can push forward the engagement for her daughter Shanshan and Lin Shen. But she didn't know that a lot of the housewives were also there to present their daughters to Mrs. Yu Jiajia.
''Jiajia, it's been a while. We all live in the same city but we are always busy and don't get the chance to meet up. This morning, I went with Guhan to visit an old worker and found a rare item. I knew immediately that you would love it since you love collecting pieces of art.''