Chapter 145 Full-Time Employee

Annie carried the garment bag back to the company. The design department was already buzzing with activity. She put the gown away properly. The moment she sat at her desk, Linda stepped out of the director's office. Everyone's attention shifted over without thinking. Linda walked straight to Annie's desk. "All three projects wrapped up smoothly," Linda said. "Congratulations, Annie. You're officially a full-time employee." As she spoke, she handed Annie a new employee badge. It came with a blue lanyard and a silver card holder, printed with Annie's photo and name. Warmth rose in Annie's chest, and her eyes stung a little. She reached out and accepted the badge with care. "Thank you, Ms. Lopez." Linda looked at her, and for once, her stern expression softened. "You earned it." With that, Linda turned around and went back into her office as briskly as she had come out. When the door shut and the sound from outside was cut off, the quiet in the room lasted exactly one second bef