?Chapter 612:


    Cathy’s ne design featured a blue gemstone set within a heart-shaped motif, evoking the sentimental charm of the 80s and 90s. She enhanced the gem with intricate vine patternsid upon a boat-shaped base, a poetic nod to the enduring love celebrated during that period.


    She was confident that no one else could match her design’s creativity. She considered herself a true genius.


    An hour passed, and all participants had turned in their designs.


    The host stepped back onto the stage. “The judges are now evaluating the submissions. We ask for your patience. We’ll announce the top three finalists in just thirty minutes.”


    Yvetteplimented Cathy dramatically. “Cathy, how did you draw so quickly? I hadn’t evene up with an idea yet, and you were already finished.”


    Cathy replied dismissively, “It was so simple even a child could do it. Really, there was no challenge. I wouldn’t have bothered preparing if I’d known.”


    Yvette seemed momentarily taken aback, realizing Cathy’sment implied she was even less capable. Trying to mask her difort, Yvette smiled weakly and stopped ttering her.


    Those nearby overheard Cathy and turned their heads.


    “Is she Helena’s protégé? No wonder she’s so good!”


    “Helena’s protégé? Considering Helena’s status as a leading global designer, her apprentice must be exceptionally talented!”


    “This feels like a professional versus newbies. Competing against Helena’s protégé? I’mpletely outssed.”


    “There’s no doubt she’ll win the championship.”


    As the ttery poured in, Cathy stood tall, radiating arrogance. At least these people acknowledged their ce beneath her.


    Thirty minutester, the host returned to the podium with the results in hand. He proceeded to announce the third- and second-ce winners.


    Cathy remained calm, her expression unchanged as she eagerly awaited her name to be announced.


    Her brow furrowed in annoyance at the host’s slow pace. It felt like aplete waste of time—who cared about second or third ce? As long as everyone remembered her as the winner, there was no point in lingering on the others.


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    Eventually, the champion was still unannounced.


    With excitement in his voice, the host dered, “And now for the champion of ourpetition. Please give a warm wee to—”


    Cathy straightened her attire, preparing to step onto the stage and im her prize.


    Next to her, Yvette was visibly thrilled, her fists pressed against her chin. “It’s got to be you, Cathy! Go on, take your trophy!”


    As Cathy began to stand, the host announced, “Monica Hayes!”


    The host continued, “A big round of apuse for Miss Hayes, our winner in the jewelry design contest!”


    The room paused in stunned silence before buzzing with conversation.


    “Why didn’t Cathy win? Isn’t she Helena’s protégé?”


    “Everyone was sure she’d win, especially since she was the first to submit. I thought her design was unbeatable.”


    “Can it be? Cathy didn’t even make the top three?”


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