“Please, don’t stand on ceremony with me.” Lucas appeared cheerful as he glanced around. “This space is lovely. It suits you perfectly.”

“Thank you,” Isabella replied softly. “I just hope things work out.”

The first candidate arrived shortly after. “Good morning, Miss Scott.” A young woman greeted her nervously. “I’m here for the designer position.”

“Please, take a seat.” Isabella gestured toward the chair and began the interview.

More applicants trickled in. One of them couldn’t stop staring at Lucas while waiting.

She leaned toward the person beside her and whispered, “Isn’t that Lucas Grant? The CEO of Grant Group? Why is he here?”

“You’re right. That’s definitely him. Maybe he and the studio owner are…” Her voice trailed off, but the implication was clear.

Lucas, perceptive as ever, noticed the shift in atmosphere. He cleared his throat and nodded at Isabella. “You have a full schedule today. I should get going.”

“Of course. Thank you for stopping by.” Isabella smiled politely as he left. The moment the door closed, the whispers among the applicants grew louder.

“I knew it! There has to be something between them. Why else would Mr. Grant show up at a place like this?” One woman smirked knowingly.

“Maybe he’s an investor. Some women really know how to use their advantages, don’t they?”

Isabella pressed her lips together and took a slow breath. She set down the résumé she was holding and cast a cool glance over the remaining candidates.

“If gossip interests you more than the job, this interview is over.”

Her tone was sharp. The room fell silent instantly. The applicants exchanged uneasy looks.

“I didn’t mean anything by it, Miss Scott,” one woman stammered.

Isabella raised a hand. “No explanations are necessary. I’m looking for professionals focused on their craft, not office rumors.”

“We understand, Miss Scott,” several murmured.

“Good. You’ll be notified of the results.” Her voice left no room for debate.

The applicants filed out, dejected. The studio fell quiet again.

Isabella rubbed her temples, feeling the weight of the morning. She sifted through the remaining portfolios. Most were unremarkable.

But one stood out—Amelia Carter. Her designs were elegant and inventive, with a subtle creative flair.

Just then, Amelia knocked and entered. Her demeanor was calm, her gaze direct. “It’s a pleasure to meet you, Miss Scott.”

“Hello, Miss Carter. Please, sit.” Isabella’s interest was piqued. She began the interview.

Amelia answered each question with clarity and depth. Her knowledge and professionalism were impressive.

By the end, Isabella knew she had found her designer. She offered Amelia the position on the spot.

Meanwhile, at a nearby café, Sophia listened to a report with a cold smile. “A design studio? She actually thinks she can start over? How pathetic.”

A man in a black suit sat across from her, bowing slightly. “It’s all arranged, Miss Reed.”