Chapter 364

Evelyn couldn't fathom where Vivian, a shameless plagiarist, found the audacity to challenge her.

Her eyes narrowed to slits. "I've got an idea."

Just then, the emcee announced her name.

The production crew asked for backup sketches to display. Evelyn simply instructed, "Project the competition poster first. Switch to blank white when I signal." The staff exchanged puzzled looks but complied.

Taking the stage, Evelyn gestured toward the massive screen behind her. After greeting the judges, she engaged the audience in a lively discussion about their farm fantasies. Meanwhile, Vivian watched the live feed with amusement.

Her assistant whispered, "Ms. Sterling, what's Evelyn plotting?"

Vivian smirked. "Doesn't matter. She's doing our work for us. This victory is already ours."

She dismissed Evelyn with a wave.

"Brilliant as always, Ms. Sterling," the assistant fawned.

Vivian typed a message: [Drinks tonight to celebrate?] The reply came instantly: [My place. We're getting properly wasted.]

Closing her phone, Vivian reclined on the sofa. "Wake me when it's over." The assistant muted the broadcast and draped a blanket over her.

Onstage, Evelyn created a brand-new design live, drawing thunderous applause. Some audience members looked confused. "Weren't you supposed to present prepared sketches?"

Evelyn answered without hesitation. "I had them. But I realized my vision alone wasn't enough. I needed your collective imagination to perfect this farm."

The judges' reactions were mixed - some impressed, others skeptical.

Perfection was impossible, after all.

Descending the stage, Evelyn found Nathaniel visibly surprised by her improvisation. He sent Samuel to investigate.

Cassandra overheard and remarked, "I didn't expect Evelyn to compete. But changing strategies last minute? Risky, don't you think?"

Nathaniel knew Evelyn never acted without reason. "The rules allow spontaneous designs."

"I'm not questioning her talent. But the judges seem divided. What if this gamble costs her the preliminaries?" Cassandra studied his face carefully.

His expression remained unreadable.

She pressed further. "Nathaniel, if she fails to advance... would you still let her continue?"