?Chapter 393:


    Whispers from online chatter floated back to them, rumors suggesting that Maia was none other than MCN’s elusive chief designer, Eileen. Was it a baseless im or reality? Had she truly possessed remarkable talent, or was she simply the product of strategic maniption by powerful allies working behind the scenes? The answers would soon surface.


    The socialites, especially those who had once ced Eileen on a pedestal, buzzed with growing anticipation, eager to watch the truth unfold.


    They were certain that in front of Mariana, a graduate of the prestigious Wegus University, Maia would surely be exposed for who she really was.


    For the social butterflies, this moment presented a golden opportunity to strip Maia of her mask. The mere thought sent thrilling shivers down their spines.


    Even udius regarded Maia with a spark of intrigue.


    Yet Maia, lounging on the couch, simply massaged her temples and exhaled heavily in resignation.


    Earlier, Rosanna had thrown down a piano challenge; now Mariana sought a duel in design. Would the provocations ever end?


    Maia had intended to enjoy a festive gathering, not engage in endless contests.


    Had she known how aggravating it would be, she would have stayed far away.


    Noticing Maia’s silence, the affluentdies sneered openly, their words dripping with derision, “Maia, aren’t you supposed to be Eileen? Why the sudden muteness?”


    “I bet she’s too frightened to battle Miss Cooper. She’s scared of the truthing out!”


    “Exactly! Maia never once appeared at designpetitions. When Blue Sea won all those awards, she didn’t even show up! MCN’s Pattie epted the honors instead!”


    “Now that you mention it, who can say those designs were hers to begin with? Maybe she just stole someone else’s creativity!”


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    “Could it be that the famous Eileen is nothing but a fraud?”


    “If that’s true, then MCN has been lying to its customers! I’ll definitely take legal action!”


    As their usations began tarnishing MCN’s name, Maia finally rose to her feet.


    One harmless invitation had once been enough to spark rumors of her bing Mnie’s future stepmother. If she rejected Mariana’s provocation today, who knew what wild headlines would explode tomorrow?


    Besides, Aurora Apparel Company had long been one of Maia’s intended conquests. Originally, she had nned a slow, calcted approach, but with Mariana boldly stepping forward as Aurora’s head, retreat was no longer an option.


    With steady steps, Maia moved into the center of the crowd, her eyes locking onto the haughty young woman basking in attention. Mariana’s chin was lifted high, radiating supreme arrogance. A subtle smirk tugged at Maia’s mouth.


    This confrontation could dismantle Aurora Apparel Company once and for all.


    “Fine. What’s your preferred method of showing our design skills?” Maia asked, her voice unshaken.


    Mariana confidently crossed the short distance between them, her lips curving into a smug smile. “Ms. Vaughn, have you encountered the ‘Three-Part Design Challenge’ before?”


    “I’m familiar with it,” Maia answered coolly.


    The Three-Part Design Challenge was a staple in academic exams and professional contests, pushing designers to create three distinct concepts under intense time pressure. It tested not only technical prowess but also creative resilience.


    In fashion, as in art, inspiration was crucial — often arriving in fleeting, unpredictable moments.


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