Chapter 51

The room became silent as Charlene entered, and all eyes were riveted on her in wonder. Someone got up and hurried to ask, "Mr. Ferguson, is this stunning lady our new colleague?" since they were too excited to stay seated. "Word does get around, doesn't it?" With a laugh, Stewart turned to present Charlene. Charlene Ross is this person. She will be joining our organization. He was interrupted by Raleigh, who shouted out, "Mr. Ferguson, did you give up on Vesta because of her? After a brief pause, Stewart nodded.

"Yes. I was considering giving you the overview at a later time. Raleigh turned to Charlene before he could finish, saying, "Vesta is only 25 years old and recently received her PhD from one of the top 10 universities. Ms. Ross's credentials must be even more outstanding if she was able to secure a position at PrimeStar. Stewart had not disclosed the true reasons for his decision to not hire Vesta, although it was widely believed that he had personal motives. Raleigh thought Charlene was hired at PrimeStar because of personal ties after witnessing her hugging Stewart downstairs earlier. Even nationally, Vesta's resume was uncommon, despite the company's reputation for drawing excellent people.

He didn't think Charlene's accomplishments could match hers. He sneered, "But then, Ms. Ross does look quite young," without waiting for Charlene to answer. People might think you haven't even graduated with your PhD yet. Stewart intended to discuss not employing Vesta with Raleigh at a later time. After all, they couldn't talk about Charlene's and Vesta's problem in such a public place. However, he hadn't anticipated Raleigh's outburst. Stewart scowled and said, "Raleigh—" However, Raleigh angrily interrupted Stewart, saying, "Mr. Ferguson, I was talking to Ms. Ross." Raleigh thought Stewart was attempting to cover for Charlene. "Is it that hard to answer about your education?" he urged Charlene. Or must I speak for you, Mr.

Ferguson? Or perhaps you've never attended a Ph.D. program? "Or perhaps the university you attended isn't ranked high enough to mention?" Charlene calmly answered, "Yes, I haven't pursued a PhD, but—" Raleigh laughed, satisfied that his ideas had come true. Not all women could match Vesta's accomplishments. Before Charlene could say anything more, he snorted. "But what? You'll claim that your expertise is sufficient even if you don't have a PhD. Why do you think that? You believe you have true talent just because men have complimented you on your appearance?"

That was the last straw for Stewart, who burst out, "Raleigh! Skepticism was one thing, but Charlene was offended by Raleigh's comments! How could he not be angry? From around his neck, Raleigh took off his ID badge. "I resign." "You! Raleigh's impetuousness astounded Stewart. Raleigh gave him a look in return. "I've always believed that you respect talent and are able to keep your personal and professional lives apart, Mr. Ferguson. However, I was mistaken. Raleigh turned and walked away. Stewart, who doesn't get angry often, yelled after him, saying, "Take a moment to calm down." You're always welcome to come back when you're ready.