Chapter 602
Chapter 602:
As a representative of a Barton Group subsidiary in Eighfast, Lily was technically part of the larger Barton organization. However, Austin typically left such matters to his subordinates. To him, a win showcased their competence, while a loss simply highlighted their shortcomings.
“It’s fine; we’ll have a chance later,” Sonya assured her.
Meanwhile, a staff member, having noticed the brief eye contact between Austin and Sonya, misinterpreted the exchange. Though Austin had quickly averted his gaze, t he staff member, observing Austin’s averted gaze, assumed it was because he was shy and hesitant to hold Sonya’s gaze in front of the crowd. This fueled the staff member’s belief that Sonya was someone Austin held in high regard.
With everyone finally in place, the emcee announced the start of the competition.
This time, the contest was divided into three rounds. In the first round, participants were tasked with selecting one of the items provided by the organizers and using it as inspiration for a creative project. Only those whose work impressed the judges and audience would advance to the next round. The first round was typically straightforward, so the items provided were fairly ordinary.
For Yelena, who was there to assist, the responsibility of choosing an item fell to Tessa.
“Tessa, go ahead and make the selection,” Yelena instructed.
Tessa seemed distracted, a slight furrow creasing her brow.
Yelena called her name again, and only then did Tessa snap out of her trance. Yelena had noticed something off about Tessa’s demeanor. It was as if seeing the woman beside Sonya had unsettled her.
“If you’re not feeling well, let me know,” Yelena said gently.
If Tessa couldn’t control her emotions in such a critical moment, she might crumble at the slightest challenge in the future. As a skilled designer, Tessa needed to maintain composure and remain unaffected by distractions to create her best work.
Tessa shook her head and replied, “I’m fine. I’ll go choose something.” As Tessa moved forward, Lily followed and deliberately stood beside her, silent.
𝓵α𝓽𝓔𝓼𝓉 с𝖍𝖆ρ𝗍𝓮𝗋𝓈
At first, Tessa tried to act normal, pretending not to notice Lily’s presence. However, Lily wasn’t about to let her off easily.
With a sneer, she taunted, “I can’t believe you still have the nerve to be here and even compete p>
Tessa stiffened. Before she could fully assess what she was holding, she quickly grabbed it and hurried away.
Lily’s gaze remained fixed on Tessa’s hand, a knowing smile playing at the edges of her lips.
When Tessa returned, Yelena, who had been watching, immediately noticed the change in her demeanor after the interaction with Lily.
“What did you pick?” Yelena asked.
Tessa didn’t respond, her eyes vacant as if she hadn’t heard the question.
Yelena called her name again, this time much louder. “Tessa p>
Tessa snapped back to reality, looking at Yelena with confusion. “Huh p>
Yelena regarded her sharply. “Do you even know what day it is today? If you let yourself be so easily distracted, maybe you should reconsider your career choice. You’re lacking the focus that’s essential for this line of work p>
Bella, standing nearby and overhearing, couldn’t help but chuckle quietly.
Tessa’s eyes reddened, and she felt a sting in her nose as she fought to hold back the tears. Taking a deep breath, she managed to steady herself and suppress the rising emotion.
Looking up at Yelena, she regained her composure and murmured apologetically, “I’m sorry. It wasn’t intentional. I’ll stay more focused from now on p>
Yelena waved off the apology. “No need to apologize. Just stay focused p>
Tessa nodded, pressing her lips together. “Okay p>