Oliver Davies cleared his throat.

His voice was strained.

“Everyone, listen up. Isabella Scott has given us two days off.”

A wave of murmurs erupted instantly.

“Two days? Now?” a voice questioned in disbelief.

“Is the studio shutting down?” another asked, fear evident.

“With the problems we have, it might be over,” someone added grimly.

Whispers spread like wildfire.

The mood grew heavier by the second.

Employees exchanged worried glances.

They packed their things quietly.

Soon, they all left with slow, heavy steps.

The studio emptied.

Only Isabella remained.

Across the city, Sophia Reed sat by a grand window.

She swirled a glass of red wine.

A cold smile touched her lips.

“Isabella,” she murmured to herself. “Do you really think you can fix this?”

She took a slow sip.

“I wonder how you'll finish the ‘Decade's Vow’ collection without the Rosalia Pink Diamond.”

She placed her glass down.

She walked to a desk and picked up a small velvet box.

Inside lay a brilliant three-carat pink diamond.

The next day arrived.

The Sterling Industries banquet hall glittered under crystal chandeliers.

Guests from high society gathered to celebrate the founders' tenth anniversary.

Sophia Reed stood among them, radiant in a deep wine-red gown.

It hugged her slender frame perfectly.

She held a champagne flute, her eyes constantly scanning the entrance.

She was waiting.

She spotted Lucas Grant in the crowd.

She moved toward him smoothly.

Lucas was dressed in a sharp black suit.

He looked calm and controlled.

“Mr. Grant,” Sophia began, her voice sweet. “Are you sure you won't reconsider partnering with me? It would be mutually beneficial.”

Lucas’s brow furrowed slightly.

His gaze was icy and detached.

“That won’t be necessary,” he stated flatly.

He turned and walked away without another word.

Sophia’s grip tightened on her glass.

Her eyes followed him, burning with frustration.

Isabella Scott arrived late.

All eyes turned to her as she entered.

She wore a stunning white gown that highlighted her elegant figure.

She commanded attention effortlessly.

Sophia approached her, champagne glass in hand.

A mocking smile played on her lips.

“The famous designer finally decides to show up.”

Isabella met her gaze calmly.

Her expression was composed.

There was no sign of distress in her eyes.

“Miss Reed,” she replied evenly. “Did you need something from me?”