Isabella explained the entire situation. “I need you to trace the source of the leak and find out who is behind it.”

“You have my word, Miss Scott. We will investigate this thoroughly and report back to you as quickly as possible.” After hanging up, a heavy weight remained in Isabella’s chest.

She hadn’t slept at all that night. Her mind was completely occupied with the stolen design drafts.

The next morning, there was a knock at the studio door. “Isabella, there’s someone here from Sterling Industries,” one of her employees informed her.

Surprised, Isabella quickly stood up, smoothed her clothes, took a steadying breath, and opened the door.

A man in a crisp suit and gold-rimmed glasses stood there. He held a document folder and wore a polished, professional smile. “Good morning, Miss Scott. I’m Thomas Wright, Mr. Sterling’s assistant.”

“It’s a pleasure to meet you, Mr. Wright. What can I do for you?” Isabella asked.

“Mr. Sterling asked me to deliver this to you personally,” Thomas said, handing her the folder.

Curious and slightly apprehensive, Isabella accepted it. She opened the folder to find a detailed partnership proposal inside.

“Mr. Sterling mentioned that if you can successfully manage this public relations situation, Sterling Industries would be very interested in renewing our collaboration,” Thomas explained. “Additionally, Mrs. Sterling has expressed great admiration for your design work.”

A wave of excitement rushed through Isabella at this unexpected chance.

“Mr. Wright, please convey my deepest gratitude to Mr. Sterling for his trust and support. I am fully committed to resolving this crisis and look forward to the possibility of working with Sterling Industries again,” she said, her voice brimming with renewed energy.

After Thomas left, Isabella immediately gathered her team for a meeting.

“Great news! Sterling Industries is open to collaborating with us again.”

The studio erupted in cheers.

“That’s amazing, Isabella!”

“We can definitely get through this.”

“Let’s give it everything we’ve got!”

Amid the celebration, Isabella’s phone, lying on the table, buzzed.

She picked it up. It was the private investigator she had hired.

She answered the call. “Hello?”

“Miss Scott, we’ve found Julian,” the investigator said, his tone low and serious. “He’s currently hiding out in a run-down area on the west side of the city. I’ve sent the exact address to your phone.”

A run-down neighborhood on the west side—known for its shady reputation—suggested Julian was hiding out of guilt.

“Thank you, I’ve received it,” Isabella said, taking a deep breath. “I’ll head over there right away.”

Ending the call, she turned to her team, forcing a calm smile. “Everyone, please focus on your work here. I have an urgent matter I must attend to. Grace, I’m leaving you in charge of the studio.”

“Isabella, what’s wrong?” Grace Miller asked, her voice filled with concern. The others watched with curious, worried expressions.

Isabella hesitated for a moment, then decided to be direct. “I’ve located Julian’s hiding place. I need to go and get some answers from him.” The atmosphere in the room instantly grew tense.

“Isabella, it’s not safe for you to go alone.” Grace’s worry was evident. “Let some of us come with you!”

“Yes, Isabella. There’s safety in numbers.”