Chapter 228

"Garrett, what nonsense are you spouting?" Preston's voice cut through the tension like a knife. "Ms. Carter earned the lead designer position through sheer talent. The fashion show's success proves her capabilities beyond doubt."

Garrett scoffed, his expression dripping with contempt. "Please. Any mediocre designer could've pulled that off. She's nothing special."

"Enough!" Preston stepped between them, but Garrett remained unmoved. "Evelyn, admit it - you used connections to get this position, didn't you?"

Evelyn's face remained impassive. She studied Garrett carefully, searching her memory for any prior encounter that might explain his hostility.

One thing needed clarification.

"I won this position fairly through merit alone. No backdoor deals. No favors." Her voice carried quiet conviction.

Garrett burst into mocking laughter. "Who'd believe that? Anyone here buying this act?" His gaze swept the room challengingly.

Preston moved forward. "The selection process was completely transparent. Cassandra and Ms. Carter competed under equal conditions before a panel of impartial judges. Stop making baseless accusations!"

Confusion flickered across Garrett's face. This contradicted everything Cassandra had told him.

Just then, Edmund's commanding voice silenced the room. "Garrett! Regardless of today's events, one fact remains undeniable - Evelyn's designs speak for themselves."

All eyes turned to the renowned professor as he continued.

"Since everyone's gathered, I'll share what I've been contemplating." His gaze settled on Evelyn. "Even before the show, I hinted at this possibility. Today, I want to make it official."

He took a measured breath. "I'm nearing retirement and have been searching for someone worthy to inherit my knowledge and techniques. Evelyn, would you do me the honor of becoming my protégé?"

The office plunged into stunned silence.

Being Edmund Whitaker's chosen successor was the dream of every designer in the industry. Many had spent years vying for this very opportunity.

Yet he'd offered it to Evelyn after mere months.

The significance wasn't lost on anyone present.

Evelyn stood frozen for several heartbeats before finding her voice. "Professor Whitaker... are you serious?"

Edmund chuckled. "The question is - are you?"

Before Evelyn could respond, Preston interjected. "Say yes, Ms. Carter! Professor Whitaker hasn't taken a student in over a decade."

"Exactly!" another colleague added. "This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity most of us would kill for."

"Your talent is undeniable. We'd all be proud to call you Professor Whitaker's successor!"

Garrett's face twisted in disgust at the chorus of praise. With a derisive snort, he stormed out.

Under the expectant gazes of her peers, Evelyn finally nodded. "Yes. It would be my greatest privilege to learn from you, Professor Whitaker."

The room erupted in cheers. Even Edmund's usually stern expression softened with satisfaction.

"Wonderful!" Preston clapped his hands together. "Shall we make the official announcement today?"

Edmund turned to Evelyn. "What do you think, my dear?"