The Queen's Back

Chapter 30

Mona's gaze swept over Barbara, and she definitely Barbara.

narrowed her eyes. If anyone in the world couldn't stand to see her succeed, it was

As Mona pondered the situation, Elara, standing beside her, suddenly remarked, "It was because Missy needed to use the restroom that Barbara took the designs. But then why did Barbara go to the restroom herself?"

Her voice was loud enough for those nearby to hear, sparking a wave of murmurs among the onlookers.

Indeed, Barbara had only been asked to deliver the designs because Missy needed to use the restroom. So why did Barbara need to go as well?

The murmurs reached Barbara's ears, prompting her to stand up, and speak in a quiet, seemingly wronged tone. "I just got coffee on my hands and didn't want to stain anyone's designs, so I went to wash them. Is that really something to be suspicious about?" After a pause, she added, "If everyone truly doubts me, I'm willing to withdraw from the competition and let Artemis Rain choose another design to prove my innocence."

Her words were sincere, her gaze steady, projecting an image of someone with nothing to hide. By offering to step down, she seemed to demonstrate her commitment to clearing her name.

Artemis had chosen Barbara's design, and the design department had seen it. The gown was beautifully crafted, particularly the embroidered neckline, which was unique and appealing. Such a design was universally admired, not just by Artemis but by everyone who saw it.

Even if Mona's claim about her design being swapped was true, and she presented her original work, many believed it wouldn't surpass Barbara's. Whether or not Mona's design was swapped seemed irrelevant, as Barbara's gown was already well-received. Leander quickly interjected after hearing Barbara's offer to withdraw. "Barbara, we all believe you're not the type to swap Mona's design. You can't withdraw from this competition!"

Artemis had already selected Barbara's design. If she withdrew, it would be difficult to explain to Artemis, and there was no guarantee anyone else's design could surpass Barbara's. Ultimately, the design department would face the consequences.

talent. There's no need to jeopardize your future over

Barbara. She just went to wash her hands. The person who

has no reason to switch Mona's design. Her

name, people might have been more inclined to suspect Barbara. With a light tap of her fingers on the table, she said, "It seems we can't identify who swapped the designs right now. I won't. pursue it

effort into her design, and it was her first significant project in a long while. It held special meaning

circumstances, he wouldn't mind making another attempt for the heiress, but Artemis Rain

Chapter 30

5

her your design.

words implied that Mona might be wasting her effort. Even if she met Artemis in person, the likelihood of her design being chosen was slim. It might be better to

reputation would soar. But if Artemis rejected it, she risked damaging her reputation. Most people would have

Artemis didn't like her design after seeing it, Mona could accept that.

hesitation, Mona declared, "I'm

loud, but it was firm. After speaking, she paused and asked, "May I ask you for Artemis' contact

it, and her assistant could easily dismiss it. It was better to go in person to show genuine intent. The design department was taken aback by Mona's decision. Most

design had indeed been swapped. Otherwise, why would anyone

anticipated that Mona would

find Artemis Rain? There was no guarantee that Artemis would

about her monthly salary. She promptly took