Chapter 390

Sophia Laurent's brows twitched imperceptibly at the sound of Ethan Winston's voice.

The venue buzzed with chatter. Suppressing her irritation, she maintained a professional smile.

"Mr. Winston, we have nothing to discuss. Please leave."

Ethan stood unmoving, his gaze as resolute as a soldier heading into battle.

"Sophia, don't worry. No matter what happens, I'll stand by you."

A flicker of confusion crossed Sophia's eyes. She couldn't fathom why he'd suddenly say such a thing.

The audience below could barely contain their gossip-fueled excitement.

Many had already seen the video Emily Lowell released, along with the mysteriously vanished trending topic.

Whispers rippled through the crowd.

Oh my god! Mr. Winston is so devoted! Showing up to support Sophia at a time like this!

Sophia's been cold to him, yet he persists. That's true love!

I'm shipping this couple now!

Don't be ridiculous! Mr. Valdemar is sitting right there. He's her actual husband!

The live stream chat exploded.

Does Mr. Valdemar even know what's happening online?

Once he finds out the truth, he'll walk away for sure!

Even as a Sophia-Alexander shipper, no man could accept something like this.

Ethan's appearance sent online discourse into a frenzy.

Some began fervently shipping the pair, while others stood firm with the original couple.

Henry Chamberlain smirked coldly at his phone screen.

He held the complete, unedited footage.

Back when investigating Tiffany Morrison, he'd paid top dollar for hackers to restore the hotel surveillance.

The version circulating online was maliciously edited.

"Find out who's behind this," he ordered into the phone.

Two hours later, the competition results were announced.

Sophia and Gavin Winslow, along with three judges, selected thirty outstanding designs.

"Congratulations to these thirty designers for joining Versini Couture," Sophia announced brightly.

The competition had been anonymous, with entries identified only by number.

Gavin took the microphone. "Selected designers, please stay for onboarding procedures."

Cheers and sighs filled the venue.

Unsuccessful candidates departed while winners remained, elated.

Not a single reporter left. Cameras remained trained on Sophia.

As Gavin prepared to speak, a journalist interrupted.

"Director Winslow, now that the competition's over, may we interview Ms. Laurent?"

A secretary hurried to Gavin's side, whispering urgently in his ear.