Chapter 164

"I've been searching everywhere, but I can't seem to locate your submission. Are you absolutely certain you turned it in to Professor Whitaker?" Eleanor questioned with a frown.

Vanessa blinked rapidly, snapping out of her daze. "I definitely submitted it. Perhaps it's displayed in the west wing. Let me show you."

The two women made their way through the bustling design exhibition toward the opposite gallery.

Meanwhile, Evelyn found herself momentarily overwhelmed by the crowd of admirers. After graciously accepting their compliments, she excused herself to a quiet seating area.

Harrison appeared with two champagne flutes, offering one to her. "How are you holding up? Need a break?"

Evelyn accepted the glass with a grateful smile. "I'm perfectly fine, thank you."

Harrison leaned closer. "I've been surveying the exhibition. Professor Whitaker has surprisingly few of his own works displayed tonight. The majority are student submissions."

"I heard Professor Whitaker is considering retirement and searching for a protégé. This exhibition serves as his evaluation of potential successors," Evelyn remarked.

Harrison nodded. "Shall we examine the submissions together?"

As they strolled through the gallery, Evelyn couldn't help but be impressed. "The craftsmanship and conceptual depth in these pieces is remarkable. Each one demonstrates incredible dedication."

Harrison pointed to a particularly striking work. "This submission comes from a freshman student. Such natural talent in their first year is extraordinary."

"But there's one piece that's generating significant buzz tonight," Harrison added mysteriously.

Evelyn's curiosity was immediately piqued. "Where is it?"

Harrison gestured toward a crowded corner. "Over there, where everyone's gathered. The crowd speaks volumes about its quality."

Without hesitation, Evelyn led the way toward the commotion.

"This is unbelievable! Vanessa Sterling has created something truly revolutionary!"

"The color palette is daring yet harmonious! The structural innovation is breathtaking. Imagine this translated into a physical product!"

"Only someone with exceptional training could produce work of this caliber. Professor Whitaker's students never cease to amaze."

"Ms. Sterling, your future in design is limitless!"

Industry experts surrounded Vanessa's displayed work, their praise flowing endlessly. Vanessa beamed with pride while Eleanor stood nearby, radiating maternal satisfaction.

The shadow that Evelyn's presence had cast over Vanessa seemed to dissipate completely in this moment of triumph.

"Our Vanessa has an innate gift for design," Eleanor proclaimed loudly. "Though only a sophomore, she's devoted countless hours to perfecting her craft."

Eleanor's expression turned particularly smug when she noticed Evelyn approaching.

"Professor Whitaker has already expressed interest in mentoring Vanessa for her graduate studies. His recognition speaks volumes about her exceptional talent!"

"Unlike some individuals who lack proper training yet insist on inserting themselves where they don't belong," Eleanor added pointedly, though careful not to name names.

Evelyn caught the thinly veiled jab but chose to ignore it. Her attention was completely captured by the design everyone was raving about.

When her eyes finally landed on the artwork, Evelyn froze in stunned silence.