SWNOVELS Chapter 320
Confidence is golden, but cockiness is poison.
The fashion show had reached its climax, and ten hopefuls had been cut from the lineup. As Ruby scanned the room and spotted Josefina and her entourage still hanging around, her forehead creased in annoyance.
"That little bitch, Josefina, how is she not booted out yet." Lauren spat out bitterly.
Erica nudged Lauren's arm with a warning, "Mind your manners." Her words were a timely reminder. Lauren quickly composed herself, and Erica's caution kept her from speaking out of turn. Ruby clamped her mouth shut, shooting a venomous glare in Josefina's direction.
Feeling the sting of Ruby's malevolent gaze, Josefina returned the favor with a smug, triumphant smile, her delight carrying a hint of defiance. Lauren simmered with rage, helpless and frustrated.
In the second round, designers were to present their creations and explain the concepts behind them.
Josefina caught Alex's eye and he nodded reassuringly at her. Without further words, he took the stage alone.
Holly stood by, chirping cheerfully, "Ms. Josefina, rest assured, with you calling shots behind the scenes, Alex will definitely be fine."
Josefina's voice was stern, "I'm not calling any shots from behind the scenes. I'm simply leading the team in this competition. It's Alex who's put in the lion's share of the effort." Josefina wasn't about to let Holly's offhand remark undermine all of Alex's hard work.
Josefina's way of speaking was really unpleasant. Holly's goal did not succeed, which made her a bit unhappy. She lowered her head and didn't say anything more.
...
When Alex's design was revealed, it left the entire room of designers speechless. He had crafted a dress with an off-the-shoulder cut that hugged the model just at the bust, with a tastefully sexy V that added a touch of elegance.
The fabric at the bust shimmered with a soft golden hue, reminiscent of a mermaid's glistening tail. Below, a short gradient transitioned into a pale blue, the seams fading gently so as not to jar the onlooker's eye. As the model strutted on the catwalk, the dress seemed to radiate light, making her appear as if she too was glowing, like a mermaid frolicking in the vast ocean.
Whatever Alex said was lost to the audience; all eyes were fixated on the dress. The design was innovative, the tailoring impeccable, and it was an absolute showstopper.
At the end of Alex's presentation, the host initiated a round of applause. It was undeniable. The haute couture piece was breathtaking.
Then it was Ruby's turn to explain her design. Erica had coached her on what to say, and Ruby had memorized it down to the last word. As Ruby finished her spiel, a smug look crossed her face.
Stepping down, she saw Erica's brows knotted in concern. "Erica, why the long face? Didn't I do well? With such a stunning design, victory is in the bag."
Erica's eyes were fixed on Alex across the room, her voice icy, "What do you know? Winning the second round means nothing. It's the final first place that counts. Did you not see how even the designers admired Alex's work?"
Ruby sat back, feigning nonchalance, "So what if his design shines too? It doesn't mean we'll lose the next round."
Erica was too frustrated to argue with Ruby's naivety. "You don't get it. Haven't you seen? Their designs are consistently impressive." Erica clenched her fists. Losing was not an option.
Erica's attitude made Ruby realize the first place might slip through her fingers, and that was unacceptable. "Erica, don't worry. I have a plan to make sure Josefina loses to us."