Chapter 52

Lily knew she would be rejected, but she didn't expect it so quickly. Jenny Thorn's office door was closed, and her assistant refused entry, claiming Jenny was in a meeting and that non-permanent staff were not allowed. After waiting half an hour, Lily realized Jenny's meeting wouldn't end anytime soon. Instead of waiting, she entered unannounced.

Jenny's assistant was caught off guard and could only follow Lily, yelling, "Ms. Thorn, she—" "Who authorized you to enter?" Jenny snapped, glancing briefly at Lily. "There's a meeting in progress. Unauthorized personnel should leave!"

"I've officially joined Rebirth as permanent staff," Lily said, walking to an empty chair and sitting down. "Therefore, I'm entitled to attend this project meeting."

Jenny stared disapprovingly. "It doesn't matter. If I deem you unfit, you won't be on this project." The others at the table quickly lowered their heads, avoiding the palpable tension. They'd heard the rumors about Lily Christian and knew Jenny disapproved. However, Jenny had been forced to accept Lily under orders from the director. To them, Lily was controversial, with a dubious past and questionable skills. Why had the director forced her onto the team, against Jenny's objections? It could only mean something was going on between him and Lily.

Regardless of Lily's abilities, she clearly had a talent for influencing men. Her manipulation of the director was surprising. "Okay, then," Lily said, shrugging casually. "What do I have to do to win your approval? I'm willing to accept any challenge." As Charles had mentioned, Jenny had a short fuse and was blunt, but she wasn't malicious and was excellent at her job. It was best to resolve their issues directly, to avoid constant conflict.

Lily preferred dealing with Jenny's directness to the underhanded tactics of Nathaniel and Melanie. Jenny, at least, was genuine.

"Pfft!" Jenny scoffed, her eyes taunting Lily, clearly doubting her abilities. "Talk is cheap. Are you sure you're up for this? No backing out." A mocking smile touched her lips.

Lily nodded determinedly. "I'm a woman of my word. If I succeed in your challenges, you'll let me join the project. Deal?"

"All right," Jenny said sternly, the room falling silent. "And if you fail, you'll go to Mr. Will, quit, and leave Rebirth!"

Lily didn't hesitate. "Deal!"