Startled by the revelation, Bella scrutinized the timestamps, confirming Elizabeth’s claim.
“Do you think Stella ripped off Devyn’s idea?” Elizabeth pondered aloud.
Bella couldn’t fathom it. Plagiarism went against her designer’s creed.
She turned grave, murmuring, “Seriously?”
Wary of revealing too much, Elizabeth held back. “I’m not sure. Could be a coincidence. But with such similarity, investigating isn’t a bad idea. These two are standouts.”
After a moment’s contemplation, Bella nodded. “You’re onto something. I’ll look into it.”
A few days later, Bella unveiled the selected designer on the website.
Anticipating eagerly, Stella logged in to the website, only to find Devyn’s name listed.
Disappointment was evident on Stella’s face as she sat at her computer desk, having dedicated considerable effort to the competition. However, the greater blow was the missed opportunity to forge a closer connection with Bella.
Regret washed over Stella as she contemplated the implications.
Confirming Bella’s ties with her would now pose a greater challenge in the days ahead.
Matthew entered the room and immediately noticed Stella’s somber expression, leading him to accurately surmise the outcome.
Approaching Stella’s side, Matthew gently squeezed her shoulder before turning his attention to the computer screen, his brows furrowing in concern.
“Devyn is the one selected?” Matthew’s voice carried a tone of disbelief. “Has she truly made such remarkable strides?”
Recalling Devyn’s prior performance at Prosperity Group, Matthew noted her competence but not exceptional talent.
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Stella affirmed with a subdued voice, “Devyn has indeed made significant progress. She deserves this recognition.”
Releasing a slight sigh, she added, “While I’m saddened by the outcome, I extend my congratulations to her.”
Matthew, however, held a differing opinion.
Shaking his head, he stated firmly, “When I assisted in promoting her online shop at your request, I observed her designs. Though improved, there remains a discernible gap between her work and yours.”
Stella sensed Matthew’s skepticism regarding the selection outcome, yet she remained convinced of its fairness.
After a moment of contemplation, she spoke up in defense of Devyn, suggesting that perhaps Devyn had excelled beyond expectations.
Considering the subjective nature of Bella’s preferences and the effort put forth by all participants, Stella proposed that Devyn’s work simply resonated more with Bella’s tastes.
Matthew remained silent, acknowledging the ambiguity inherent in design competitions.
Embracing Stella, Matthew offered words of solace. “Don’t dwell on it too much. You gave it your all. And since you and Bella are both in the same field, there’ll surely be other opportunities to interact with her down the Line.”