Chapter 365

Nathaniel's gaze flickered toward Cassandra, his brow furrowing slightly in displeasure.

Cassandra quickly interjected, "Nathaniel, don't look at me like that. I'm only concerned about putting you in a difficult position. If Evelyn advances, it might stir discontent among the other designers. That wouldn't be good for her either. Don't you agree?"

His voice was low, edged with irritation. "The results aren't even out yet. Aren't you jumping to conclusions? Even if she doesn't make it, as long as she wants to stay, I'll make sure she does." His meaning was unmistakable.

This was blatant favoritism toward Evelyn.

Cassandra found it baffling.

Nathaniel had always maintained strict professionalism, never letting personal feelings interfere with business. Even in university, he was known for his impartiality. Yet now, he was bending his own rules for Evelyn.

Cassandra couldn't pinpoint why it unsettled her. She believed Nathaniel shouldn't compromise his principles for anyone.

But sensing his growing annoyance, she forced a faint smile and dropped the subject.

Soon, Samuel returned with the details and relayed them honestly.

"Mr. Martin, should we launch a public investigation into this matter?"

Nathaniel shook his head. "Find out who Vivian Sterling really is. Keep it discreet. I don’t want Evelyn dragged into unnecessary scrutiny."

Their relationship already put enough pressure on her. If she advanced now, people would assume it was because of him. He needed to maintain distance to avoid accusations of bias. He made it clear—anyone who leaked information would face consequences.

Cassandra stiffened, her face paling.

She wanted to tell Nathaniel outright that she wasn’t the type to scheme. If she had an issue, she’d confront it directly.

But to avoid conflict, she bit back her words.

The tension between them lingered for the rest of the competition.

An hour later, all the designers finished their presentations. The judges retreated for deliberation, leaving a thirty-minute break before announcing the top twenty.

In the lounge, Evelyn and her team chatted animatedly. Gabrielle and the others clapped enthusiastically. "Ms. Mitchell, you were incredible out there. Officially my new idol!"

"Until the next one comes along?"

Gabrielle laughed sheepishly. "No, seriously. Your improvisation was brilliant."

Charlotte nodded. "Evelyn has even more potential. If you three stick with her, you’ll go far."

Evelyn waved them off. "Enough flattery." She checked the time.

With the results still minutes away, she prepared them. "We did our best, but competitions are unpredictable. If we don’t advance, don’t take it personally. No regrets."

Gabrielle and the others exchanged glances. Liam spoke up. "Ms. Mitchell, we’re with you. The real injustice is how hard you worked, only for someone else to steal credit."

Max agreed. "It doesn’t matter to us. Whatever you decide, we’ll support you."