“The Dewy Hibiscus is absolutely magnificent!” a prominent socialite declared.

“Indeed, its design masterfully blends diamond fire with feminine grace,” a gentleman from the gathering added.

All color vanished from Sophia’s face as the truth settled in—the necklace was Isabella’s creation.

She snapped her head toward Isabella, only to find her still wearing that calm, knowing smile, as if she had planned the entire evening.

“Ms. Sterling, your necklace is utterly breathtaking!” a reporter called out excitedly. “Could you share the genius behind its design?”

With a faint smile, Olivia turned her gaze to Isabella.

“The creator of the Dewy Hibiscus is none other than Serena,” she announced, directing all praise her way.

Thunderous applause filled the grand hall as every eye turned to Isabella, celebrating her brilliance.

Sophia’s cheeks burned with humiliation. She felt completely exposed by the unexpected turn.

All her careful planning had become a pathetic joke.

She bit her lip so hard it nearly bled, her nails digging deep into her palms.

“Ms. Sterling, the Dewy Hibiscus necklace you’re wearing is simply exquisite,” a well-dressed gentleman remarked as he approached Olivia. “Might I ask how you selected this particular set?”

Olivia gently touched the necklace, her eyes sparkling with admiration.

“The Dewy Hibiscus isn’t just beautifully crafted. It also incorporates motifs from Swiss traditional art. Serena’s initial sketches brought a delightful surprise to the entire collection.”

“And this charming Samoyed accompanying you…” The gentleman’s attention shifted to the dog, which was adorned with a necklace from Sophia.

Olivia feigned surprise, raising a perfectly sculpted eyebrow.

“This little darling? He’s dressed for the occasion.”

“I was referring to its necklace…” The gentleman hesitated, his question trailing into awkward silence.

“This piece?” Olivia laughed lightly, stroking the Samoyed’s head. “It’s from a young, aspiring designer. While the design might be a bit… excessive, the materials are of excellent quality. It suits my furry companion perfectly for tonight.”

Olivia’s casual remarks made the floor seem to vanish beneath Sophia. She felt the heavy weight of scornful, pitying, and even amused glances from everyone around her.

Ethan’s expression turned grim.

“Ethan…” Sophia whispered, tugging weakly at his sleeve, her voice trembling.

Ethan, however, ignored her completely.

Just then, a sharp, sarcastic voice cut through the air.

“Ms. Sterling, don’t you find this rather disrespectful?”

All heads turned toward the source, spotting a woman in a sleek black gown striding confidently toward them.

Her features radiated assurance, and the crowd recognized her immediately as Zoe, the lead designer at Apex Design Collective.

Zoe’s arrival intensified the already charged atmosphere.

Olivia responded with a dismissive glance, her tone dripping with condescension.

“This is my property. How I choose to use it is my concern alone, Miss Tremblay. Perhaps you should focus on your own affairs and keep your opinions to yourself.”

Zoe was taken aback by Olivia’s bluntness, her composure cracking for a moment.

She drew a sharp breath, struggling to maintain her poise.