Chapter 16 Believe in Your Ability

As Alayna stepped away from the newsreader's desk, a gentle breeze embraced her face, bringing with it a sense of renewal. The expression on her face spoke volumes, mirroring the deep satisfaction she felt for a job well done. Her wide smile radiated with profound contentment.

The studio lights glistened, casting a spotlight on her black hair, seamlessly blending with her aura of accomplishment. Her eyes sparkled with passion and strong conviction, reflecting her relentless dedication to delivering information to the audience.

As she walked through the newsroom, the Head of HRD approached her and commended her, "Nice job, Alayna."

"Thank you, sir," Alayna responded with a warm smile.

"Oh, by the way, could you please take part in voting for the candidates for rookie news anchors?" he asked.

"Why me, sir? Isn't it within your authority as the Head of HRD?" Alayna inquired curiously.

"Yes, it is. However, I believe in your ability to determine who's fit to be a news anchor at The Premier Times. Since they might appear alongside you, you must have a favorable impression of them. If not, you should reject them," the Head of HRD explained.

Alayna gazed at the Head of HRD, deeply touched by the trust he placed in her. "It's not that I dislike them, but they must possess professionalism if they are to appear or even replace me. Our standards need to be upheld."

The Head of HRD nodded, his eyes reflecting contemplation. "To be professional, they must have experience, correct?"

Alayna concurred, acknowledging the truth in the Head of HRD's words. "I completely understand. As the public face of this station, I feel a responsibility to ensure that everyone who graces the screen is capable of delivering information with the utmost integrity and excellence."

A warm understanding smile graced the face of the Head of HRD. "Alayna, your commitment to maintaining high standards of quality has always been commendable. However, it's important to remember that sometimes we must also give those with potential a chance. Don't hesitate to provide guidance and direction to those who are just starting."

Alayna took a moment to absorb those words, deep in contemplation. "You're right. I will strive to offer opportunities to those individuals who show promise and a strong desire to learn. However, I will also ensure that broadcast quality remains a top priority. I don't want to risk tarnishing my reputation if I were to broadcast with a rookie news anchor who makes critical mistakes."

Satisfaction emanated from the Head of HRD as he nodded. "That's the passion I expect from you. I trust that you will make the right decisions for the team and the station."

Alayna affirmed, "Thank you for your trust. I will do my best."

"Great! So, can I count on you to select the rookie news anchors?" the Head of HRD asked hopefully, anxiously awaiting her response.

Alayna reassured him with a smile. "Well okay, I will. I will carefully observe them and provide opportunities for those who display growth potential."

The Head of HRD nodded with satisfaction. "That's it, Alayna. I know you will make the right decisions for the benefit of the team and the station. I will send the cover letter to your office."

"Very well, sir," Alayna replied respectfully, feeling the weight of responsibility deepen upon her shoulders.

Alayna stepped back into her solitary room, feeling an overwhelming sense of emptiness reminiscent of her own heart and emotions. It weighed down on her, a deep void that seemed to consume her very being. She inhaled deeply, desperately trying to quell the turmoil raging within her.

Her gaze drifted towards the window, her eyes fixating on the cloudy sky outside. Countless thoughts and considerations flooded her mind, overwhelming her with their weight.

A knock echoed through the room, interrupting her deep contemplation. "Yes, please come in!" Alayna called out, tearing her eyes away from the window and focusing on her unexpected visitor.

The door swung open, revealing an office boy with a stack of files clutched in his hands. With respect, he extended the files to Alayna. "This is a cover letter for the position of news anchor, Miss Alayna."

Alayna accepted the file. The files before her were like scattered pieces of a puzzle, each one representing a potential member of her team later.

Several tense minutes had elapsed since Alayna had received the application letter. The interview room had been prepared, exuding a perfect blend of comfort and professionalism. Alayna sat at a table adorned with open application files, alongside carefully crafted notes she had penned for this momentous meeting.

After reviewing the CVs of the candidate news anchors, Alayna summoned them for a brief interview.

The interview commenced with inquiries regarding the candidate's background and experience. Alayna listened intently, keenly attuned to every nuance of skill and motivation conveyed by the candidate.

One by one the candidates entered the room one after another. She delved deeper into their personalities, unearthing the very essence of what propelled them in the realm of journalism, as well as their visionary aspirations for the station.

After the interview was over, she decided to choose a woman who was 30 years old and had experience working at a television station. The candidate's demeanor exuded politeness and wisdom, sparking an instant connection between them.

Eager to share her findings, Alayna wasted no time and made her way straight to the head of HRD's room.

Knocking gently on the door, she respectfully requested entry.

"Please come in, Alayna," the head of HRD warmly responded.

Stepping into the room, Alayna gracefully extended the folder containing the CVs to the head of HRD. With a sense of purpose, she communicated her decision concisely.

"Good afternoon, Sir. Regarding the candidate of news anchor, I have selected and my choice is Serenada," Alayna stated to the point.

However, to her surprise, the head of HRD shook his head in disagreement.

"We cannot select that woman. She is too old. Instead, we will opt for Giselle. She is youthful and possesses remarkable beauty," the head of HRD proclaimed.

Alayna's eyes narrowed, a mix of disappointment and frustration etched across her face. She had dedicated the entire day to finding the best news anchors, only to have the final decision had been decided by the head of HRD.

"Are you serious, sir?" Alayna questioned, her voice filled with disbelief.

"Yes, I will contact Giselle so she can start her work tomorrow," the head of HRD affirmed.

Perplexed, Alayna couldn't help but voice her concerns. "Why did you give me the job of choosing if you were going to hire someone with no experience?"

"This decision is the choice of Mr. Lev Halton himself. He arrived here and read the candidate's CV files, ultimately selecting this young woman," the head of HRD replied, deflecting the blame.

Alayna was taken aback. Why did Lev feel the need to involve himself in matters beyond his jurisdiction? Nevertheless, she knew there was no point in continuing the matter.

"Very well then, let's hire both of them. It would be advantageous to have experienced employees on board," Alayna suggested diplomatically. "Well, it's just a suggestion, I respect your decision as I trust in your wisdom."

With that, Alayna exited the HRD's room.