Miss Josefina: Nobody's Princess

The competition was in full swing, and the moment of truth was drawing near. Alex's design was a breath of fresh air that caught everyone off guard. The murmurs around the hall were unanimous in their prediction that Alex would be the unexpected winner of the day.

It was a shocker, really, that such a dazzling talent had emerged from an obscure little firm. It was the kind of surprise that made the event all the more thrilling.

The contest quickly progressed to the third round, with only five designers left standing.

That's when the host sauntered over. "Congratulations to our finalists," she boomed, her voice echoing through the space. "Welcome to the grand finale. For this round, we're going off-script with some improvisation. You've got one hour on the clock."

A collective gasp filled the room. Ruby's mind was racing. This wasn't what Erica had told her. Designing on the fly? That might as well be a death sentence for her.

Catching Ruby's eye, Erica subtly gestured toward the design sketch in her hand. The realization hit Ruby like a bolt of lightning-she just needed to bring the third design sketch to life.

As Ruby's panic subsided, the host chimed in again. "Our theme is 'Spring.' You've got one hour, and you're on your own."

Ruby's heart sank. Erica was taken aback. This was not the information she had been given. They exchanged frantic glances, both feeling the pressure mounting.

Billy, oblivious to the drama, was all confidence. "Ruby, it's all up to you now. Knock 'em dead. The future of the company is in your hands."

brave smile

urgently, "Don't panic. Just do as

hushed tones, urging Ruby to

yourself. With that mindset, you'll outshine them

of energy coursed through

watch. Before entering, they would all surrender their electronic devices. Josefina

responded with an easy grin, "Ms. Josefina,

your all, it's not a defeat. You're young. Take this as a learning experience. Don't pressure yourself-just go

his mother Marina in tow, arrived at the venue. Ruby puffed up with pride upon seeing them. "Mom, Dad, look-Xavier and her mother

Marina, who had always looked down

grace Marina with a glance, dismissing her outright. "That woman was just a homewrecke. How could she scorn our Ruby? I won't even dignify her with words." Billy cautioned her, "Zip it, Lauren. Walls have ears.

please. What if someone hears? It could affect my relationship with

"Alright, Ruby. If you are into Xavier, I'll play along. You focus here. I'll go exchange pleasantries

Ruby nodded, grateful.

and sat beside her, steeling herself for

to access chapters of novels early and in the highest