Matilda saw Rosalind's tears streaming down her face and quickly went to hug her, whispering words of solace, "Oh, sweetie, don't cry. Sthings, speople... they just aren't meant for us." Her tone had shifted tically. Just moments ago, she was pressing Joshua for assurances, hopeful that Zephyr could keep his leadership role and allow Rosalind and Lysander to marry. She hadn't paid much mind to the history between Thalassa and Lysander either.
But now, hearing Joshua reveal that Lysander might never walk again, she began to console Rosalind, suggesting Lysander wasn't her destiny after all.
Follow on NovᴇlEnglish.nᴇtRosalind, her beliefs shattered, clung to her mother's clothes and wept unrestrainedly in her arms. Matilda gently stroked her back, offering the softest comfort she could muster, "Let it out, honey. Sometimes, crying can make things a little easier." Joshua, observing the mother-daughter embrace, understood clearly that they no longer sought the Sinclair family's approval. It dawned on him that Rosalind couldn't accept a Lysander who was less than whole.
With a heavy sigh, Joshua rose and walked upstairs.
Five days later, the jewelry design competition's final round proceeded smoothly. The format was similar to the semifinals, with designers presenting their creations modeled for the audience. However, unlike the semifinals where judges picked the winner, the final round winners were decided by votes from both the television and live audience, making it broader and more democratic.
Having learned her lesson, Thalassa was meticulous from drawing the initial designs to the final jewelry making, taking extra precautions ensure her work remained untouched. Only after confirming everything was in order did she submit her piece to the organizers the day before the competition, specifically inquiring about the security of her work.
The organizers reassured her of the utmost confidentiality, promising a repeat of the semifinal debacle was impossible. Comforted by their assurance, Thalassa felt relieved.
The day of the competition saw a bustling venue, but this time, Lysander was by Thalassa's side, not accompanying Rosalind as before. Feeling his presence, Thalassa looked at Lysander elfound tranquility. He noticed her gaze, intertwined his fingers with hers, palm to palm, sharing a warmth that was beyond compare.
Follow on Novᴇl-Onlinᴇ.cᴏmTheir eyes met for a brief moment, and Thalassa, initially nervous, found her calm, confidently focusing on the stage.
After the host's lengthy introduction, the competition officially began the semifinalists, along with the top three designers from other regions, totaled nine contestants. The first model hit the runway showcasing the first contestant's ruby collection, dressed in an emerald green strapless gown. The contrast between the dress and the
red ruby jewelry highlighted the gems' brilliance under the dazzling lights, showcasing luxury in its full glory.
The audience's enthusiastic applause indicated their appreciation for the first designer's work, setting a high bar and leaving Thalassa feeling the weight of the competition. Everyone was exceptionally talented making her anxious about how her own creations would be received. X