While Matthew’s rational voice reverberated in her ears, Ste’s thoughts drifted to memories of Devyn’s sorrowful gaze in front of her mother’s ICU ward and the countless times they had coborated at Prosperity Group, where Devyn had been a staunch defender and ally.


    They had once been the closest of friends.


    After a prolonged pause, Ste finally responded to Matthew, her voice firm, “I need to speak with Devyn.


    ”


    Matthew furrowed his brow slightly, his dissatisfaction evident in his expression.


    “Why subject yourself to further pain by going to see her?”


    Ste pursed her lips, lifting her gaze to meet Matthew’s, her resolve unwavering.


    “I understand she’s crossed a line, but she’s been facing considerable challengestely.


    I believe in allowing her toe clean.


    ”


    Matthew stuck to his guns.


    With aforting pat on Ste’s shoulder, he warned her, “Don’t risk your future on Devyn’s so-called friendship.Published by N?v''elD/rama.Org.


    It’s not worth it.


    ”


    Ste got the message.


    The selected designer would be Be’s student.


    Whether Be was her mother or not, being under her wing meant learning from the best.


    Yet, Ste wanted to give Devyn onest chance.


    She met Matthew’s gaze, firm in her decision.


    “I’ve got this, don’t worry.


    ”


    Matthew sensed her resolve and backed off.


    Maybe Ste needed to confront Devyn face-to-face.


    He agreed, saying, “Let’s go see her.


    ”


    At Devyn’s studio, Ste hesitated before knocking.


    Entering, she found Devyn engrossed in work.


    “Who’s there?”


    Devyn nced up, her expression shifting.


    She knew why Ste hade.


    The online shop had just been updated with new styles of dresses, and here was Ste.


    Devyn feigned ignorance.


    “Hey, Ste.


    Sorry, I’m swamped with orders right now so I don’t have time.


    ”


    It was clear she wanted Ste gone.


    Ste saw through the act, sensing Devyn’s guilt.


    “Really? Congrats, but…” Ste cut to the chase.


    “Why are your designs eerily simr to mine, the ones I haven’t even released?”


    Devyn paused her work, a facade of innocence stered on her face.


    “What a coincidence, huh? But let’s be real, Ste.


    Simrities happen all the time.


    It’s not like I copied your exact patterns.


    ”