Reborn From Oblivion

Nathalie stayed cool as a cucumber, replying with a simple, "Yes." Her calm

demeanor left the other student feeling like she'd just swung a punch at thin air- her attempt to rattle Nathalie fell flat.

Not giving up, the classmate tried a new angle. "Ashley, I heard you're the CEO of Stewart Enterprise. But you're not a business major, and your resume doesn't exactly scream impressive. How do you lead employees who might have better qualifications?"

Nathalie, with her eyes closed as if half-asleep, responded casually, "Excellence is defined by leaders, not by those they lead. In my book, having a degree isn't the only measure of greatness. Some of our best folks at the company don't have the fanciest diplomas."

The classmate was left speechless, caught off guard by Nathalie's sharp and articulate comeback, especially since she seemed so mild and unassuming.

The guys, who'd been quietly letting the classmate challenge Nathalie, jumped in now that the situation flipped.

"Vivian, she's not being hostile. You know how straightforward engineering folks are-they speak their minds. Honestly, she admires leaders like you," Diego chimed in to smooth things over.

The classmate's eyes flashed with a hint of scorn, clearly not seeing Nathalie as the brilliant leader others did.

Nathalie, not one for over-the-top compliments, shot back, "Why look up to others? To me, everyone's on the same playing field. CEOs and employees alike, we're all just working folks."

A male classmate clapped enthusiastically, "Ashley, you hit the nail on the head. Managers could learn a thing or two from you."

The classmate took another dig, "Male managers are alright, but I can't stand some female managers-they're always competing with each other..."

She finished with a pointed look at Nathalie.

Nathalie was baffled by the hostility. She had no beef with this woman, yet every comment seemed aimed at her.

Not one to back down, Nathalie fired back, "The workplace is no cakewalk. Competition isn't just among women; men do it too. It's survival of the fittest-a natural law no one can change."

After that, Nathalie shut her eyes again, done with the conversation.

The classmate was left wondering if Nathalie even understood the term "female competition."

When Nathalie followed Diego to the club, she was momentarily stunned by its name.

It was Benjamin's club.

They went straight into a spacious

private room, big enough for about a

hundred people. It was cozily

decorated to suit the reunion's theme, with a scholarly vibe.

Upon spotting Diego, the classmates erupted.

"He's the class genius."

"And the school heartthrob."noveldrama

"Every girl's dream guy."

After the greetings, they teased Diego:

"Diego, who's the gorgeous girl with you?"

Diego looked a bit awkward.

Nathalie, remembering she was

supposed to be his pretend

girlfriend, confidently said, "I'm his girlfriend."

"Wow, Diego, you've hit the jackpot. She looks like a goddess-way prettier than any celeb."

Diego gave a sheepish laugh.

The girls who had a thing for Diego weren't thrilled.

"What are you talking about? Diego's

a catch himself. He's not just

good-looking and smart, he's got great family background toodf you ask me, she's the lucky one."