Zhao Yue Li dismissively said, "We're the only two designers in the company, who else are they going to use if not us?"
Idiotic, Ye Ranran sneered inwardly, yet she managed to maintain her politeness on the surface.
"There are countless designers hoping to be featured in S.Z Magazine. If we can't deliver the design, they will select themselves, then we'll need to buy their design."
The director's words left Zhao Yue Li unable to keep her composure; a faint urgency passed over her eyes. She wanted to say something, but after looking at Ye Ranran, she closed her mouth again.
"Alright, get ready. The editor-in-chief of S.Z Magazine has arranged a meeting with you both this afternoon."
Ye Ranran slightly nodded and stepped out of the director's office, her bright eyes radiating confidence.
This was a rare opportunity. If her design were to be featured in S.Z Magazine, she would become a renowned designer.
This could take her career to the next level. Therefore, no matter what, she had to seize this opportunity.
The editor-in-chief of S.Z Magazine had chosen to meet at a café. The elegant atmosphere and soothing music eased Ye Ranran's tense nerves a bit.
In contrast, Zhao Yue Li held her chin up, her eyes showing arrogance, radiating an air of certitude.
Ye Ranran didn't know where her confidence came from but didn't bother to ask.
Ye Ranran assumed the magazine editor would be a woman, she was completely taken aback when a man with painted nails, heavy makeup, short hair, wearing a suit and pants appeared in front of her.
She had a good scare.
Fortunately, she was used to hiding her genuine emotions. Even though she was inwardly shocked, what showed on her face was just a slight stiffening of her smile.
On the other hand, Zhao Yue Li couldn't hide her surprise.
Her mouth gasped open wide enough to stick an egg in, and her face wore an expression of pure disdain, almost as if the words 'effeminate man' were written across her forehead.
"I apologize for my lateness". The man took off his sunglasses and casually put them on the table.
Although he was apologizing, there wasn't a hint of remorse in his tone.
Apparently, he was used to making people wait, or perhaps he enjoyed doing so.
"No worries, we just arrived ourselves", Ye Ranran responded equitable and calm.
Shi Yang couldn't help but take another look at her.
"Your design drafts, please present them to me."
Ye Ranran handed over her design, Zhao Yue Li hesitated for a moment, then did the same eventually.
Shi Yang casually flipped through, "Both of you should be aware of our magazine's positioning, right?"
"Yes, women aged 26 to 30, professional style, catering to white-collar workers", Ye Ranran replied with a confident smile.
Zhao Yue Li looked annoyed, but knew this wasn't the place for a heated discussion.
"Hmm, these few designs can make do, but the accessories are too childish, I suggest modifying or removing them." Shi Yang picked up Ye Ranran's design drafts.
"Who says mature women can't be cute? Who says the professional world has to be stiff?" Ye Ranran countered gently.
Shi Yang fixed her with a piercing gaze, "Too much cuteness lacks seriousness, professionalism demands rigor, your clothing should reflect that. You wouldn't wear a holiday dress to work, would you, Designer Ye?"
"But too much seriousness is just dull, a touch of playfulness doesn't compromise professionalism, it adds a pleasant surprise."
"From what I understand, S.Z Magazine's subscriptions have been steadily decreasing over the past couple of years. Hasn't the editor-in-chief considered the cause of this?" Ye Ranran met Shi Yang's stare.
Shi Yang's complexion turned slightly unsightly, his gaze somewhat cold. That's right, if it hadn't been for this situation, he wouldn't have approached Ye Ranran's company.
But how did she know about this secret?