The press surged with excitement, flashes snapping like lightning, reporters whispering feverishly among themselves.
Then, slowly, I walked onto the stage.
My black gown swept the floor, my makeup was understated, but the cold fire in my eyes was impossible to miss.
I didn’t spare a glance at Chloe or Ethan. Instead, I faced the sea of cameras head-on, my voice sharp and unwavering.
“Since we’re discussing talent and clarification, why don’t we have Chloe present hers—right here, right now.”
I raised my hand toward the giant screen behind me.
“This is my latest proposal, submitted last month—City of Dawn.”
The screen lit up, revealing sweeping lines and a bold, visionary design.
The hall fell silent; reporters held their breath.
A faint, icy smile curved my lips.
“If she truly has the ability, let her offer a revision… or better yet, present her own design and compete against mine.”
Chloe’s face drained of color.
Moments ago, she had implied I was a plagiarist. Now, with the spotlight fixed on her, she couldn’t form a single word.
Her hands gripped the edge of the table, knuckles trembling, her eyes darting wildly. Even her breath seemed to falter.