Startled by the revtion, Be scrutinized the timestamps, confirming Elizabeth’s im.


    “Do you think Ste ripped off Devyn’s idea?” Elizabeth pondered aloud.


    Be couldn’t fathom it.


    giarism went against her designer’s creed.


    She turned grave, murmuring, “Seriously?”Property ? of N?velDrama.Org.


    Wary of revealing too much, Elizabeth held back.


    “I’m not sure.


    Could be a coincidence.


    But with such simrity, investigating isn’t a bad idea.


    These two are standouts.


    ”


    After a moment’s contemtion, Be nodded.


    “You’re onto something.


    I’ll look into it.


    ”


    A few dayster, Be unveiled the selected designer on the website.


    Anticipating eagerly, Ste logged in to the website, only to find Devyn’s name listed.


    Disappointment was evident on Ste’s face as she sat at herputer desk, having dedicated considerable effort to thepetition.


    However, the greater blow was the missed opportunity to forge a closer connection with Be.


    Regret washed over Ste as she contemted the implications.


    Confirming Be’s ties with her would now pose a greater challenge in the days ahead.


    Matthew entered the room and immediately noticed Ste’s somber expression, leading him to urately surmise the oue.


    Approaching Ste’s side, Matthew gently squeezed her shoulder before turning his attention to theputer screen, his brows furrowing in concern.


    “Devyn is the one selected?” Matthew’s voice carried a tone of disbelief.


    “Has she truly made such remarkable strides?”


    Recalling Devyn’s prior performance at Prosperity Group, Matthew noted herpetence but not exceptional talent.


    Ste affirmed with a subdued voice, “Devyn has indeed made significant progress.


    She deserves this recognition.


    ”


    Releasing a slight sigh, she added, “While I’m saddened by the oue, I extend my congrattions to her.


    ”


    Matthew, however, held a differing opinion.


    Shaking his head, he stated firmly, “When I assisted in promoting her online shop at your request, I observed her designs.


    Though improved, there remains a discernible gap between her work and yours.


    ”


    Ste sensed Matthew’s skepticism regarding the selection oue, yet she remained convinced of its fairness.


    After a moment of contemtion, she spoke up in defense of Devyn, suggesting that perhaps Devyn had excelled beyond expectations.


    Considering the subjective nature of Be’s preferences and the effort put forth by all participants, Ste proposed that Devyn’s work simply resonated more with Be’s tastes.


    Matthew remained silent, acknowledging the ambiguity inherent in designpetitions.


    Embracing Ste, Matthew offered words of sce.


    “Don’t dwell on it too much.


    You gave it your all.


    And since you and Be are both in the same field, there’ll surely be other opportunities to interact with her down the Line.


    ”