Although their office buildings were just a stone's throw apart, Janice and Edward hadn't crossed paths for nearly 20 days.
Janice later heard from the vice director that Edward had been away on a business trip abroad.
Meanwhile, Prosper Stitch Group's newly established double-sided crochet team was beginning to take shape.
The seamstresses trained diligently every day, with Yvonne staying late to ensure their progress was on track.
After reviewing the submitted work, Janice called the vice director. "This batch is ready for mass production."
"Understood, Ms. Smith!"
This was a milestone as Prosper Stitch Group had never before mass-produced double-sided crochet.
Janice made her way to the Double-Sided Crochet Department.
"Ms. Smith!"
Hundreds of seamstresses paused their work and fixed their attention on Janice, who stood confidently in her tailored business attire.
"Alright, everyone. I know it's been a hectic period, but let's power through before New Year's. The batch isn't large, and overtime pay will be doubled. But it's completely voluntary, so if you'd rather leave early, feel free to head home. Once we finish, I'll give you all an early holiday break to enjoy New Year's," Janice announced.
As soon as she finished, not a single seamstress hesitated. Who would turn down overtime under such generous terms?
Yvonne stood tall and reassured her, "Don't worry, Ms. Smith! We'll ensure top-notch quality!"
"Good. Keep up the excellent work."
As soon as Janice left, the room buzzed with conversation.
"Ms. Smith is looking more beautiful every day."
"I know, right? She's so much more confident and radiant than back at Refined Threads Co. She used to work herself to exhaustion and still got yelled at by Simon back then. It was hard to watch."
"I really hope she and Mr. Moore are a couple. They'd make such a powerful team!"
"I'm not concerned with her personal life. All I know is that wherever Ms. Smith goes, I'm following her!"
Many of the seamstresses had already made up their minds—they were loyal to Janice for the long run.
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