A Life Debt Repaid

Chapter 21
With Fiona gone, Cordy had help from Stephen Lang to select a new secretary, Vince Cartman. He was young and academically
qualified, and had not joined either faction in Starstream Group since he was only recently hired.
And as instructed, Noel arrived to present her drafts for the season in the vast conference room. But even as she elaborated on t
he details, she lost confidence by the minute under Cordy’s watchful gaze
She certainly had to admit that she did not have the inspiration to create a design out from scratch–
even if she was given another week. Her design was fundamentally stuck to her old
ideas, and the minute adjustments she made by borrowing inspiration from others left her designs less than outstanding. “Do you
think this is going to fly, Ms. Sachs?” Cordy asked as she took a sip of tea.
It was only natural that Noel came up with an excuse
beforehand. “Personally, I think trends matter, but that does not mean we should lose our brand’s individuality. What’s wrong in k
eeping our uniqueness?” “Individuality? Uniqueness? I don’t see what’s unique aside from the logo of our company. From where
I’m standing, this is just a mashup of various trend templates, and it’s only more laughable that it somehow still failed to clear the
passing mark.”
While Cordy’s words embarrassed Noel, her subordinates–from her deputy and supervisors–were certainly on Noel’s side.
Faye Lang, the deputy director of design, promptly snapped, “Our director did all she could. She just couldn’t meet your ridiculou
s demands! Why don’t you personally instruct us if you’re so dissatisfied?”
The differences in specialties were never easily surmounted–
even if Cordy had an eye for designs, that did not mean she could make anything herself
And Faye certainly doubted that Cordy would push them around after her remark.
Even so, Cordy did not hesitate in her response. “Alright.”
While Faye’s face fell, Noel was left gaping at Cordy.
“Since Design is requesting it, I will now take direct control starting today.” Cordy continued, before turning toward Noel. “As for t
he former director...”

Noel’s heart raced.
She would not take it lying down if Cordy fired her, even if it meant destroying Starstream Group!
If she could not have it, Cordy would never have it either!
That was when Cordy told her, “I finally understand why our father was eager to promote you. Design isn’t your forte–
you’re appointed as CEO of Starstream Group starting today.”
Noel could not believe her ears–nor could everyone else in the conference room.
Cordy was supposed to be harassing Noel every chance she had! Why would she promote her instead?
Even if the reasoning was exceedingly ironic...
In fact, after Cordy finished, she rose from her seat and walked up to Noel, clapping her on the shoulder and appearing perfectly c
Noel was mystified even as she stared at Cordy, feeling as if Cordy was someone else.
Why would Cordy be so nice to her?!
Cordy certainly was not being nice–
she had a cunning plan in mind, since Noel would never be grateful and she only ever demanded more.
She was just giving her an eye for an eye–so that Noel had a taste of her own medicine!
Still, as she left the conference room and returned to her office, she received a call from Simon.
“What are you playing at?!” he demanded the instant she answered.
“You and Noel have managed Starstream together for years. Aren’t I allowed to appoint her as CEO to assist my management?“