Chapter 12: In the Lion’s Den

"President Zhao would like to see you," said the assistant, smiling politely.

Nora rose from her desk, trying to hide the way her palms had gone damp.

Julian's office on the top floor was sleek, sunlit, and strangely quiet. He stood by the window, reading something on his tablet.

"You handled yourself well in the meeting," he said without turning.

"Thank you, sir."

He finally looked over, tossing a folder onto the glass desk between them. "I want you to lead the new integration project."

Nora opened the folder. Inside were preliminary sketches, proposals, and fabric samples—an ambitious initiative combining traditional embroidery with wearable, modern fashion.

"Me?" she asked.

Julian folded his arms. "You're the only person who's shown both artistic integrity and commercial instinct."

She hesitated. "I've never led a corporate team before."

"You'll learn."

He stepped closer, his gaze sharp. "You believe in these crafts. Now prove they belong in the future."

The challenge was clear.

And so was the trust.