As Austin's assistant departed, the interviewer's gaze shifted to Valerie, her eyes clouding with a mix of surprise and disappointment. She had high hopes for Valerie and already considered her a suitable candidate.
The other panel members exchanged curious glances, their eyebrows furrowed in unison, wondering what bombshell Austin's assistant had just dropped. The room seemed to hold its breath, awaiting the fallout.
"Miss Valerie Wright, you'll receive an email by the end of this week," the woman said curtly, her tone devoid of warmth. With a swift motion, she closed Valerie's portfolio, the sound echoing through the room like a door slamming shut. "Next candidate, please," she called out, her gaze already dismissing Valerie as Valerie rose from her seat.
