However, the other participant did not notice Lucy was acting strange. Instead, she grabbed the latter's hand and
asked eagerly, “Lucy, since you know her, can you introduce me to her? She's just too beautiful. As a designer,
even if she didn't become my model, just looking at her would spark my inspiration. Since she's here, that must
mean she's probably a costume designer, right?”
“Yes. Not only is Natalie a costume designer, but she's also one of our judges and mentors,” Lucy answered
begrudgingly, her eyes narrowing.
That's right. I knew Natalie would be involved in this competition. Hence, I had one of the suitors from a wealthy
and prominent family I'd rejected before to help secure me a spot as a participant. I want to show Shane that
whatever she can do, so can I. After all, the only thing Natalie is good at is designing clothes. As long as I rank
Follow on NovᴇlEnglish.nᴇthigher than her, he'll see me in a better light. I can stand before him and tell him I'm not lacking compared to
Natalie. Apart from her looks, he probably only likes her for her talent because she can help Thompson Group with
designing clothes. Once I become a famous designer, I can do that too, and Natalie won't be as important
anymore!
While Lucy was thinking those thoughts and deluding herself, the participant looked surprised to hear what Lucy
had said about Natalie. “What did you say? Did you say she's a judge and a mentor?”
“Yes.” Lucy nodded.
The other participant's eyes shone even brighter as she stared at Natalie, a look of admiration evident in her gaze.
“Oh my goodness! She's so outstanding! Although the judges and mentors selected for this competition are quite
young, I heard they're all incredibly talented designers who are also well-known internationally. Lucy, you have to
tell me her name.”
As she spoke, she grabbed Lucy's arm and shook it excitedly.
Lucy had the urge to pull her arm away and tell her to go find out herself.
However, Lucy was well aware that she was no costume designer. She had forced her way into the industry on the
merit of others' work. Within those circles, she had no fame, background, or achievements to speak of. All the other
designers were unwilling to befriend her. Only that silly and naive participant felt that Lucy was lonely and decided
to be friends with her.
I may not like her, but I can't deny that I need her to help me gain a solid footing within this industry. I also need her
to explain what I need to pay attention to in this industry. So, no matter what happens, I can't drive her away. No
matter how much I dislike her, I've got to suck it up.
With that thought running through her mind, Lucy took a deep breath and forced a smile on her lips. “Her name is
Natalie Smith.”
Follow on Novᴇl-Onlinᴇ.cᴏmThe other participant tilted her head, puzzled. “Natalie Smith? Why does that name ring a bell? Let me think...”
After a few seconds, her eyes brightened when she finally remembered. “It's her! She was the one who came
second in that international competition some time ago. No, hold up. If she hadn't chosen to leave the competition,
she would've most likely won. She's the best among the younger generation of designers. I didn't think she'd be so
beautiful. Lucy, you sure are lucky to be acquainted with a designer like her.”
Lucy chuckled in response, but inwardly, those words wrenched her heart.
Lucky? I don't think it's lucky that I know her. In fact, I'd say it's unlucky. She's always out to get me. If it weren't for
her, I'd have probably been with Shane. I saved him, so how could he not fall for me? However, that Natalie tore us
apart! Not only that, she keeps sneakily causing trouble for me. Just recently, she got me sent to the detention
center! How infuriating!
Suddenly, the other participant remarked, “Come to think of it, both of your design styles are very similar.”