Chapter 43
Evelyn lowered her gaze, masking her emotions at Penelope's words. The divorce papers were already signed. Who Nathaniel chose to support or be with was no longer her concern.
No matter what else Penelope said, Evelyn tuned her out. Soon, Victoria took the stage to announce the ceremony's commencement.
"As you all know, this year's competition rules have changed," Victoria declared.
"There will only be ten winners, meaning one of the eleven finalists will leave empty-handed. To ensure fairness, the judges will evaluate the designs anonymously. The winners will be announced in reverse orderโstarting from tenth place."
Evelyn's eyes flickered to the judging panel. Nathaniel sat among them, his presence unmistakable.
Her stomach twisted with nerves. Just then, her phone buzzedโa message from Daniel. "Donโt worry. Youโve got this."
Half an hour later, the judging concluded. Victoria began announcing the results.
"Tenth place goes toโฆ Ninth placeโฆ"
The countdown continued until only four finalists remained. Evelyn bit her lip. The unranked one would be eliminated.
Penelope smirked at her. "Donโt tell me you actually thought youโd make top three, Evelyn. This yearโs competition is brutal, and that Zoe girl is still in the running."
Evelyn almost laughed. She was Zoe. Should she thank Penelope for the backhanded compliment?
Victoria announced third and second place. Evelyn wasnโt among them. She caught Nathaniel glancing her way, but when she turned to look, he had already averted his gaze.
Her fists clenched as she waited for the final announcement. Victoriaโs smile faltered slightly when she noticed the tension between them.
"And in first placeโฆ Cassandra Blake!"
Two seats away, a young woman leapt up and rushed to the stage, beaming. Evelyn remained seated, her nails digging into her palms. For one fleeting moment, she had dared to hope.
But reality crashed down. She hadnโt even placed.
Penelope scoffed. "See, Evelyn? I told you to give up. People like you donโt belong in first place. Go crawl back to whatever gutter you came from."
Evelyn stood abruptly and headed for the restroom. She splashed cold water on her face, trying to steady her breathing. Her phone rangโDaniel again.
She ignored it. She didnโt want comfort. She just needed to be alone.
When she stepped out, someone was leaning against the wallโtall, devastatingly handsome.
Nathaniel.
Evelyn lowered her head and tried to walk past, but he caught her wrist. "Is this what you wanted?"
She met his gaze. "I donโt know what you mean."
His grip tightened. "Your new benefactor isnโt very impressive. Couldnโt even get you a win."
"Let go." She yanked her arm back. "I donโt want to talk to you."
Nathaniel didnโt release her. "Already throwing a tantrum? Itโs not too late to come to your senses. If youโre looking for a wealthy patron, I could introduce you to a few."
Evelynโs jaw tightened. "I donโt need your help."
His smirk was infuriating. "Weโll see."