The audience erupted in applause for Elise Scott, praising her for living up to expectations.

But they were also cheering for Sophia Mitchell's gracious acceptance of defeat.

Sophia had been leading in both points and popularity throughout the competition. Many found it difficult to accept her loss.

Yet there she was, sincerely congratulating Elise.

[I thought they hated each other, but maybe I was wrong. Sisters shouldn't fight over a man!]

[I never realized Sophia was so mature about these things. She looks happier than Elise about the win.]

[I rewatched the previous episodes. Sophia looked so nervous right before they announced Elise's results. More nervous than Elise herself.]

[Maybe we misjudged her. Perhaps she genuinely cares about Samuel Mitchell.]

Meanwhile, William Levine frowned at the screen. Why was Sophia receiving all this praise when Elise was the winner?

His phone buzzed with messages from Nathan in their WhatsApp group.

[Did Sophia have a change of heart? Or did she pay off the production team to improve her image? @williamlevine]

[But honestly, Elise's fashion design skills are incredible. Should I ask her to design something for me? @williamlevine]

Andrew retorted: [You're too bulky for anyone to design anything fitting. Don't make things difficult for Mrs. Levine.]

Nathan and Andrew began arguing while William ignored them.

William kept his eyes glued to the screen. The show was almost over.

Just as Elise prepared to give her winner's speech, a voice shouted from the audience. "Elise's winning design was plagiarized!"

The accusation echoed through the suddenly silent studio.

"I recognized it too! That design was stolen from Lovely's work! Lovely is an internationally famous fashion designer. That piece was published in a fashion magazine last year!"

"Yes! I knew it looked familiar! It's definitely plagiarized! I've been following Lovely since she won first prize in that international competition!"

The audience grew louder, more restless.

The host tried repeatedly to calm them, but failed.

"This isn't fair! Elise should be disqualified!"

"We can't accept this! Do over! Do over!"

Chaos erupted in the studio. Audience members began throwing bottles at Elise. Security rushed forward to prevent violence.

This was unprecedented in reality television history.

Yet viewership numbers skyrocketed during the incident.

[The production team better not cut the feed now.]

[Yes! If they go off air, we'll boycott Crestwood Channel's variety shows forever!]

[We demand answers! No behind-the-scenes manipulation!]

After quick consultation with executives, the production team decided to stay on air.

The host returned, attempting damage control. "To everyone here and watching at home, our management has made several decisions. First, we will remain on air with all of you as our witnesses. Second, we ask the studio audience to remain calm and maintain order. Your safety is our priority. Finally, we promise a fair investigation into this competition's outcome."

The audience quieted somewhat at the host's words.

The judges returned to their seats.

The head judge spoke firmly. "We have re-examined Elise Scott's design, comparing it to Lovely's 'Eternity' from last year. The designs are virtually identical. We therefore determine this to be plagiarism."

The crowd roared in vindication.