Miss Josefina: Nobody's Princess

Erica was clueless about Ruby's plan. "Hold your horses, everyone. Just wait a bit longer. Ruby said she has a way to turn things around."

Lauren was skeptical, her grip on Erica's arm fiery with anger. "Spill it, what the hell happened? Weren't you supposed to be Ruby's right hand? How could she screw up her final show? Didn't you assure Billy i was a sure win?"

Erica winced in pain from the tight grip. "Let go of me! We can talk this out, don't push me." Struggling, Erica pried Lauren's fingers off, her wrist turning blue.

Billy stepped in, "Lauren, we're in public, keep it cool. If the press gets a whiff of this, our stock prices will tank."

Lauren retorted, "Are stock prices more important than Ruby? Did you see the smirk on Marina's face? She's thrilled Ruby lost."

Frowning, Erica said, "I don't know how much you all know, but let me tell you, Ruby's at this level because of me. I drew those designs for the company, not Ruby. Show a little respect, or else some eavesdropper might take it the wrong way, and then it's bye-bye Ruby's image and the company's reputation."

Her words, half threat, half caution, cooled down Billy and Lauren a bit.

Alex's spring-themed designs were genuinely stunning. Completing that gown in just an hour, and with such finesse, was no small feat.

The deep pink dress with its structured pleats, coupled with a matching powder-pink bolero with puffy sleeves, added a touch of whimsy. It draped casually on the arms, swaying with grace, a true head-turner. Alex's designs captured everyone's attention.

"Absolutely gorgeous!"

"I can already picture my favorite celeb wearing this!"

The praises poured in, a clear testament to Alex's talent.

After the judges' unanimous decision, Alex won first place without a shadow of a doubt.

Ruby, predictably, came in last.

Holly stood there, flabbergasted yet relieved. She had conspired with a mysterious figure to sabotage Alex, aiming to become the sole designer at the company.

At the office, she had seen Alex's designs. But today, at the competition, Alex hadn't used those but had come up with entirely new ones.

Holly regretted her actions. Why did she plot against Alex? Why oppose Josefina? She sat quietly, unable to speak until Alex's victory left her throat dry and words failing her. The more she thought about it, the more distressed she felt, her emotions a rollercoaster ride.

Josefina approached her, her voice laced with inquiry, "Holly, what's up with you? You don't seem too happy."

With an awkward smile, Holly replied, "It's kind of funny, just worried about a friend."

"If you're worried, why not check on them?"

"It's okay, I can go later," Holly managed to say.

Josefina didn't respond but turned to see Ruby snatch the microphone from the host, Layla. Layla didn't stop Ruby, curious to see what she'd do.

Ruby shouted, "I have to report this. Alex's designs are bought."

Her declaration sent a shockwave through the crowd.

"Impossible! The designs were bought?"

"Did Alex know about the competition's process beforehand?"

"Oh my God, it's so unfair."