Rewriting My Heart's Fate

"Especially what?" Kevin and I asked in unison.

"Especially you, Evelyn." Lianne looked at me and smiled cryptically.

"Me?" I pointed at myself. I was utterly bewildered.

"Exactly. The professor was deeply impressed by the unique design concepts and aesthetic vision in your portfolio," Lianne continued.

My eyes widened as a wave of indescribable excitement surged within me. To be recognized by such a renowned industry figure was an incredible honor. "Wow." I clenched my fists in exhilaration.

"It's absolutely true," Lianne said, grinning. "But it seems like the professor's compliment has rubbed someone the wrong way."

"Who?" I asked, puzzled.

Lianne sighed. "Who else? Carlos."

Of course. Carlos Miles, another top student in our department, was also my rival.

He had always been critical of my design philosophy. He accused me of being overly unconventional and straying too far from mainstream aesthetics. "He just can't stand seeing someone else succeed," Kevin muttered.

he's not easy to deal with.

about him," I replied. "Let's focus

we returned to the classroom to get ready for the afternoon

people suddenly appeared at the door. Leading the pack was none other

the room until his gaze landed on me. His

overseas and even caught

"What's that got to do with

feisty, aren't

yourself just because the professor likes you. Design isn't as simple

by my demeanor. He stepped

special? You're just a hack who cobbles together ideas to impress the professor.

breath, trying to tamp down

judge it. My concepts may not conform to mainstream standards, but that doesn't make them any less valid I said,

work do

I'll show you what real

that, he turned on his heel and marched