Chapter 240

Jonathan stood at the center of the stage, tablet in hand.

"I'll now announce the final scores. Gemini Collective-91. Seafarer Designs-88. Congratulations to Gemini Collective for winning the commission!"

The Gemini Collective team erupted in cheers, exchanging high-fives and applause.

In stark contrast, the three members of Seafarer Designs fell silent, the mood around them turning heavy.

Rowena heard the verdict with a tangled surge of emotions-frustration, disappointment, and a deep sense of injustice. She'd poured everything into this project and desperately wanted to win. But all she could think of was Abbott, that bastard, threatening her with those compromising photos. She felt cornered, with no way out but to give in.

Guilt gnawed at her as she thought of all Isadora's tireless work these past weeks.

Wendy, stunned by the announcement, seemed unable to process it; every inch of her bristled with disbelief.

was clearly impressed by Isadora's presentation- there

lost in thought. Then she stood and addressed Jonathan. "Mr. Oakley, would you mind publishing

face tightened; his expression

Oakley Construction's integrity? Suggesting there was foul play? Your little design firm

couldn't bear the thought of being called out for unfair practices, especially not in front of Victor. He was furious—and a little panicked—that this woman might damage their reputation in Victor's eyes. Who did she think she was? He regretted ever letting Seafarer Designs into the competition

as well, swaggering as he

every judge's scores? If everyone acted this way after losing, we'd

changed course, forgetting their

their own work,

in

his pen with a subtle but unmistakable

the main seat-toward the man whose status and pedigree commanded instant

Fitzgerald arched an eyebrow, letting out a quiet, derisive laugh. His voice was low and even. "Since when is asking for the judges' scores not part of a fair competition? Funny-when others ask, it's transparency. When it's you, suddenly it's a

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