Find me in your labyrinth (Stella and Jonathan) novel Chapter 2983

“It’s wonderful to be back at headquarters and working alongside all of you. Since I’m new here, I hope I can count on your support.”

Everyone welcomed her with applause.

Ron added, “Adelaide is a highly capable professional. I’m confident that, under her leadership, we’ll see our company’s performance and reputation reach new heights. I hope you’ll all give her your full cooperation.”

The team voiced their agreement.

Once the meeting ended, people filed out, shooting glances at Cedric—some with barely disguised glee, others with sympathy or regret, each with their own thoughts.

Naturally, there were also those who quickly changed their allegiances, eager to curry favor with Adelaide under the guise of reporting their work.

Emily didn’t return to her desk right away—instead, she headed first to Cedric’s office.

Before she could say anything, Cedric greeted her with a cheerful smile. “No need to comfort me—I really don’t mind. Being the Deputy Director means I can focus on the design work and won’t have to worry about all the other administrative matters. Honestly, it’s much more relaxed.”

Emily nodded. “As long as you’re okay, that’s what matters.”

She took out the gift she had prepared. “I had meant this as a congratulatory present. I didn’t expect things to change so suddenly, but I’d still like you to have it. I hope your good spirits remain unchanged.”

Cedric laughed heartily and accepted the gift. “With what you just said, I really should accept it. You’re right—even if nothing changes, it’s just like before. Nothing to feel bad about.”

Emily knew Cedric well—he loved diving into his work and cared little for titles or recognition—so she didn’t press further. “I’ll get back to work!”

“Go ahead. I’ll be meeting with our new director soon to hand over some tasks anyway.” Cedric nodded, still smiling.

“Alright!”

Emily grinned and turned to leave.

Just as she opened the office door, she found Adelaide standing outside, about to knock.

With a gentle smile, Emily greeted her, “Adelaide!”

But there was something unreadable in Adelaide’s eyes as she gave a subtle, composed nod in return.

Adelaide nodded with a smile, glancing down at Edwina’s file before asking lightly, “I noticed during the meeting you sat with Emily Sullivan. Are you two close?”

Edwina smiled. “Yes, we get along very well.”

“Emily is quite impressive. Although she hasn’t been with the company long, her track record is outstanding. Even before I arrived, Mr. Ron and a few others mentioned her to me individually—they all say she’s talented, hardworking, and a rare find.”

Edwina quickly agreed, “Emily really is outstanding!”

Adelaide continued, “After the meeting this morning, I went to see Cedric and ran into Emily coming out of his office. Are they close?”

Edwina answered honestly, “Cedric has a lot of respect for Emily. Privately, they refer to each other as mentor and student.”

“I see!”

Adelaide nodded thoughtfully, then shifted the topic back to Edwina. After chatting a bit more, she asked in a lighthearted tone, “We’ll be promoting one of the intermediate designers to a senior position in the second half of the year. Both you and Emily are on the shortlist. Who do you think stands the better chance?”