She Was the Treasure All Along novel Chapter 493

Alicia offered a polite, practiced smile. "Sybil has been resting at home lately with nothing much to do, so I had her represent Élégance in a collaboration with Langley Jewelers for the Nexus Design competition. Winning or losing isn't the point; I just want her to gain some real-world experience."

Standing nearby with a cocktail in hand, Thane Crown stared intensely at Sybil, practically singing her praises. "I never realized Sybil was such a multi-talented prodigy. She excels at everything. The casual sketch she drew completely captivated me."

Beside him, Sylvie Langley remained quiet, her expression unreadable.

Alicia chuckled softly and turned her attention back to Loyce. "Since it's for Sybil's competition piece, and Bloomberry wants to compete using the exact same fabric... I just don't think it's appropriate. How about you pick a different fabric? You can sign a new contract with my factory, and I'll have them expedite the shipping to you."

Yarden immediately chimed in. "I think that's the perfect solution. Kills two birds with one stone."

"Exactly. You should just accept the offer, Ms. Lonsdale. We all know you're talented in certain areas, but when you're stepping into unfamiliar territory, it's best to listen to your elders. Don't let your ego get the better of you, or you'll end up embarrassing Bloomberry on a global stage like Nexus Design. That would be a real disaster," the other officials echoed, dripping with condescension.

Loyce simply smiled. "What a coincidence. Unfortunately, I have no intention of signing a new contract. Let's just drop the matter entirely."

She reached out and abruptly ended the video call, cutting Alicia off. Then, she turned to Yarden, whose face was a mask of rustic innocence. "Dinner was lovely, thank you for the hospitality. I think I'll just take a stroll by myself now."

Yarden had accomplished his goal and saw no need to press the issue.

Back at the party, the moment the call ended, Sylvie Langley gracefully stepped forward, her voice cutting through the chatter. "Isn't that an incredible coincidence? Loyce is entering the Nexus Design competition, and she's going up against Sybil on the same stage."

The last time Loyce and Sybil had shared a stage was at the Steinway piano competition—except one had been the head judge, and the other had been exposed as a fraud.

With that history in mind, Sylvie was naturally cautious. "I do love the design sketch, but as for its origins..."

Questioned in front of the crowd, Alicia didn't flinch. She took Sybil's hand affectionately. "In her spare time, Sybil used to study painting under Master Ivan. This piece was entirely born from her own inspiration, and then refined with the help of professional designers. If this sketch really belonged to Bloomberry, my niece wouldn't have had to embarrass herself begging me for fabric just now, would she?"

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