Unexpected Fiancée

Chapter 38: You Surprised Me

Chapter 38: You Surprised Me

Jane cleared her throat, sporting a confident smile, and stated, "Now, let me provide an overview of the Lady Fashion project's status and progress."

With a pen in hand, she skillfully illustrated the entire project's flow chart on the whiteboard while presenting the essential project details in a clear and understandable manner. Her presentation was fluid and easy to follow.

Monica watched in disbelief, her nails unconsciously digging into her skin. She couldn't comprehend how Jane managed to present the project so smoothly and comprehensively without prior preparation. Jane even drew a fantastic flowchart! There had to be some mistake here. Perhaps Jane had somehow learned about the meeting and secretly prepared for it.

Monica had planned to publicly embarrass Jane but ended up inadvertently giving her the opportunity to shine. She held a deep grudge against Jane and was determined to oust her from Pansy Group someday.

Patrick was also taken aback. He couldn't tear his gaze away from Jane during her presentation. She exuded an aura of grace and capability, even though she was supposed to be a country bumpkin with no knowledge. Her unexpected competence left him intrigued.

"Well, that's all. I've concluded. Does anyone have any questions or concerns?" Jane inquired, grinning at the audience.

Everyone present appeared highly impressed with her seamless presentation. Not a single complaint or question arose.

Patrick, in particular, had his eyes fixed on Jane throughout her presentation, unable to look away. She seemed remarkable, possessing a certain nobility, elegance, and confidence, akin to a queen. It left him wondering what more lay beneath the surface, given her supposed rural origins.

"Mr. Pansy, is there anything amiss?" Jane asked, noting Patrick's continued gaze.

"No," Patrick replied with a faint smile, his sensuous lips curving.

"In that case, please allow the Chief Designer, Cara, to introduce the designs."

Jane returned to her seat and gestured for Cara to showcase the designs.

Cara quickly unfolded the design drawings and began presenting them to Patrick.

"The theme is 'Ice and Fire.' We're planning to launch a collection of high-quality jewelry, including necklaces, rings, and bracelets. These are my designs," she explained.

Patrick appeared displeased, his expression clearly reflecting his dissatisfaction with the designs. He turned to Jane, inquiring in a hushed tone, "What are your thoughts?" Content (C) Nôv/elDra/ma.Org.

Jane examined the drawings briefly. While they were beautiful and featured trendy elements, they ultimately came across as ordinary. She felt the designs lacked a distinctive and spirited quality.

Patrick's opinion seemed to align with hers, and he nodded. "I agree, they are rather ordinary."

Sherry, the head of the design department, felt uncomfortable hearing this criticism. While Cara was the chief designer, Sherry had provided plenty of input during the design process.

Before she could object to Jane's critique, Patrick interjected, "Right, they are indeed quite commonplace."

Sherry was left feeling aghast, fearing the reputation of the design department was tarnished. But she forced a smile and told Cara, "We'll make improvements, all right?"

Cara blushed, acknowledging the need for enhancement.

"Our Lady Fashion project's leader will be visiting Guavo next week, and their president will accompany them. We must have a flawless presentation," Patrick stressed, his tone serious.

"We will go all out to create the best," Sherry promised with determination, though it was through gritted teeth.

"Jane, please monitor the progress," Patrick instructed, glancing at her.

Jane couldn't believe it. She wasn't even a designer, and she hadn't contributed to the design process. Yet, as the project director, she had to accept the accolades that she felt were undeserved.

After the meeting concluded, everyone departed from the conference room. Jane collected her belongings and was about to leave when she heard Patrick's captivating voice from behind.

"Jane, please stay."

Jane paused and turned back. "How can I assist you further?"

Patrick approached her, gazing silently into her eyes. After a moment, he softly inquired, "Do you have a good understanding of jewelry design?"

"I have a basic knowledge of it," Jane replied with a slight smile. She possessed a general understanding of fashion design, making jewelry design a relatively straightforward aspect for her.

"You surprise me," Patrick murmured, curiosity gleaming in his deep-set eyes.

Jane merely shrugged and said nothing. She wondered why her response had surprised him. What would be his reaction if he discovered her true identity? She considered these questions before deciding that there was no more to discuss. She turned and left for the restroom.

As she entered the bathroom, she overheard a low, female voice from one of the stalls. The voice sounded like Monica's, and she mentioned Jane's name.

Jane halted, straining to listen carefully.

Monica, in a jealous and angry tone, said, "Don't fret, Miss Doyle. Our plan will be perfect. I'll make sure to get Jane ousted from Pansy Group."

"Miss Doyle?" Could this be Florence? It seemed that Monica was collaborating with Florence in some scheme to frame her.

With narrowed eyes, Jane decided it was time to fight back. She had never been one to back down, and she wouldn't let Monica and Florence provoke her any further.