For a single, heart-stopping moment after Elise’s question, the grand hall was utterly silent. You could have heard a pin drop. Then, like a swarm of angry bees, the whispers began.

"She doesn’t understand the word," someone murmured.

"For a department head, knowing three languages is basic. This is an international bidding event! What was she thinking?"

"This is a disgrace to BLAQ’s reputation."

"I have to admit, her presentation was good… but how can she not answer a ...