Chapter 86
Neil eagerly grabbed the sketches with both hands, half expecting Judson’s favoritism toward Lena to stem from personal affection. But when he saw the design in his palms, his breath hitched, and a chill ran down his spine.
“Quick, do a comparison! Let everyone see what Lena’s design looks like.”
Even Mathew was shocked, and Susan felt a growing unease. What did Neil mean by that?
Before anyone could gather their thoughts, the lights snapped off. The big screen flickered back to life, rapidly scrolling until a design of a rose–entwined crown was on the screen for all to see.
Thorns curled around a somewhat tarnished crown that still glimmered with a brilliant shine, its charm amplified by the dark beauty of overlapping rose petals and the centerpiece gem. The design was a striking mix of twisted branches and an off–putting crown.
Beneath it read, [A Rose and a Crown, but I Seek Freedom – Lena]
Silence enveloped the room. After a minute of dead air, thunderous applause erupted.
“Man, this rose and crown, it’s hard to tell which plays the lead role, but the theme of freedom, the branching rose buds… is this suggesting we shouldn’t be confined?”
“It doesn’t matter what it is about. What baffles me is how such an exquisite, lifelike design was lost to Susan’s tacky Rose Sword!”
Baldrick was left in awe, turning to Nancy. “This is stunning. It’s a shame it won’t grace the Sandro Group’s annual gala.”
Nancy, the praised one, smiled, “It’s okay. The jewelry line we’re developing with the Sandro Group is one of a kind.”
“You’re right,” Baldrick chuckled softly.
No way! That wasn’t right! Frowning, Judson stepped between them, vowing to remove Baldrick from Nancy’s
side sooner or later.
On stage, Mathew couldn’t peel his eyes away from the design, his face drained of color, lips trembling.
Even Susan was dumbfounded, never expecting Nancy’s work to be so breathtaking, far beyond her skill level.
Neil was livid. “Mathew, are you blind? How could such a beautiful design not make it past the preliminaries?
You’re fired!”
Neil’s anger surged. “And Susan, I have no idea how you managed to win Mathew over, but with all your trash–talking about Lena, NY isn’t going to work with someone like you! Anyone who teams up with you is an enemy of NY!”
Mathew and Susan stood frozen, their breathing almost stopping
In a fit of hysteria, Susan screamed at Nancy, “Lena, how could you create something like this? You must have plagiarized!”
Judson’s brow furrowed instantly while Nancy calmly retorted, “I know it’s hard for you to accept, but just because you can’t do it doesn’t mean others can’t.”
Susan was speechless. “You!”
“What about me? No wonder you were so jealous of Lena’s talent. It turns out you knew your true level.” Judson sharply interjected, “But sadly, you’re doomed. Better start over from scratch.”
Susan’s face contorted with rage, and then, security guards rushed in, grabbing her by the shoulders to drag
her away.
07:55
Chapter 86
In desperation, Susan cried out, “Mathew, save me. I’m carrying your child…”
That statement only fueled Mathew’s fury. “You wretch, how would I have dismissed Miss Lena’s design without a glance if it weren’t for your seduction? It deserves the championship. Go to hell!”
Susan couldn’t believe Mathew’s words, but the guards pulled her away before she could respond.
A bewildered Mathew turned to Neil, “Mr. Neil, I had no idea. It was all Susan’s fault.”
“Save it for the company’s future CEO,” Neil said, his brow furrowed.
Mathew didn’t get a chance to reply before being escorted out.
The grand hall fell silent again.
Neil approached Nancy nervously, glancing at Judson before speaking cautiously, “Miss Lena, I’m sorry. My oversight allowed others to take advantage. You were the rightful champion.”
“Fortunately, I discovered Mathew’s embezzlement and acceptance of a large sum before the contest. I’m sorry, Miss Lena. I’ll ensure they’re banned. Would you still consider signing with us?”
